Like for the title how do you train you dev muscle?
Personally I use this website: https://www.codewars.com/ is very interesting and itr helped me see the “problems” in my approach to problem usually I go for the brute force approach instead of the smart one.
And this very cool app: https://www.enki.com/ that helps me discover/remember useful things and as plus they managed to breake github https://blog.enki.com/breaking-github-d57ebebe67e3
This is the best method imo. I’ve done tutorials/step-by-step lessons and I tend to forget them pretty quickly, but I remember a lot of the problems+solutions I’ve run into on past projects. Nothing quite like the experience of “oh crap I have to get this done” to kick my butt in gear.
My problem with that approach is that I realize I end up using always the same approach to problems where codewars is showing me how other people solve the same problem, and helps me get out of my old habits and see different/smart way to solve the same problem.
But I see your point and it a good way to test yourself.
To train your dev muscle…dev…that is it.
programming is a “craft” not a “skill”, you learn by doing, not by observing.
I was sparse in my reply.
When I first got into computers I was immediately attracted to game modding. 3d art, 2d, sprites, textures, scripting, mapping.
Then I started messing with web design mostly HTML and graphics. To make my websites functional I learned JavaScript. I then built a system in php to post news. On to a user system, inventory, documents, cms, html5 canvas and interfacing with hardware.
And then I moved into c++ with the arduino platform messing with model train DCC systems and automation. Then wrote software for an Ethernet connected thermostat and a front end in php for some home automation…
My next endeavor will relate to emulators and input. And a controller for vehicle telemetry/control.
So pick something that interests you and create.
If you’re trying to develop vocational skills, you’re doing it wrong. Develop skills, and then apply them to a vocation. Reminds me of people going to school to get a job, no you are there to get an education.
Anyway, have fun.
When I first tried to learn C++ in college, I tried to make a text based RPG. I later dropped out of college and my C++ class, and never even got close to finishing that or have working code of any kind.
However, I do think that would still be a fun project to do if I was to ever attempt something like that again.
I’m never revisiting that project.
I hated writing even the most simple code.
Working on random as fucking hell middleware my boss wants.