If you’re an ambitious and eager-to-learn programmer or developer, this guide has got some great tips and tricks for you.
As a programmer, there is always room to grow your skills and advance your career. Here’s how:
Learn SQL ‘Common Table Expressions’
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In the world of programming, there are lots of different languages that you can learn and master.
SQL (Structured Query Language) has been around for several decades. As a programming language, it’s not as versatile or modern as the likes of Python and JavaScript. However, SQL is essential for people working on back-end systems, databases, and analytics. Therefore, even today, most job descriptions for programmers list SQL as a requirement.
If you’re an established programmer, you’re likely already experienced in SQL. However, have you learnt SQL Common Table Expressions (also known as CTEs)?
By learning SQL common table expression, you will be able to better organize your SQL queries, whilst also making them more readable. Whether you’re a relative beginner, or someone with years of programming experience, this is something you need to do.
Dive into New Programming Languages
Right now, it’s a very exciting time to be a programmer or developer.
This is because you can work in a variety of different sectors.
For example, you could develop mobile apps for young people, or cybersecurity software for big businesses.
To do this, though, it’s recommended you start diving into new programming languages that are relevant to your desired field.
If you decided to go into cybersecurity, you should be looking to learn all of the languages listed below (or at least most of them):
- Python (the industry favorite for detecting malware and viruses, scanning for threats, and more)
- HTML
- SQL (as mentioned above)
- Shell Scripting
In general, it’s recommended that most programmers know at least 3 languages, no matter which sector they are in. The more languages you know, the more career opportunities you will experience – it’s simple.
Dedicate Your Free Time to Coding
During your free time – such as evenings and weekends – it’s recommended that you dedicate at least an hour to coding.
If you’re a beginner, you can even use free coding websites, such as Coderbyte, whenever you feel like practicing.
For more advanced professionals, it’s recommended you use TopCoder.
Develop Your Interpersonal Skills
Many people assume that a career in coding is all about having your eyes glued to a screen. However, this isn’t the case.
During a typical working week, you will need to communicate ideas with your colleagues, provide feedback, and much more.
When you’re working on projects together, having interpersonal skills is especially important. Without them, you will struggle to progress up the rankings, no matter how good you are as a standalone developer.
Stay Up to Date with New Trends
In the world of programming, new technologies, apps, and ideas are constantly emerging. You can keep up to date with them through programmer forums, news outlets, and social media. The more in touch you are with the latest trends, the better decisions you will be able to make regarding your career.
