Computer programming is the key to success in IT, so it’s important that you learn how to program.
Programming is a very specific skill, which involves many different aspects of computer science. If you want to be considered an expert programmer, then you need to know more than just one language. You also need to know what makes for good code and how to write better code. In this article, we’ll show you 7 tips on how to become a better programmer.
- Understand Data Structures
The data structures you use are essential. Your program will run faster if you choose the right data structure. There are three main types of data structures that you can use to store information, each with their own strengths and weaknesses.
A linked list is probably the most commonly used data structure; they are easy to implement but have limited storage capacity. A stack uses less memory than a linked list because it stores its elements in order instead of in a random order. Stacks are fast to use when inserting or deleting elements from the top of the stack. However, stacks cannot be searched efficiently.
A hash table is similar to a stack in some ways; however, it has no fixed size limit, meaning there’s more room for extra elements. Hash tables are fast to search, though not as fast as a stack. They aren’t useful for storing large amounts of data, since all the elements are stored together in the same block.
An array doesn’t need any additional space in order to add another element, so it’s best suited for large datasets. Arrays are slower to access than other data structures, but fast to insert and delete values. The only problem with arrays is that they take up too much memory.
- Know What Makes For Good Code
Good code is concise and easy to read. When you make a mistake, your code will still work properly. It’s easy to spot mistakes in your code without having to try out every possible combination of characters. This means that you can easily read someone else’s code and understand what it does.
When writing code, make sure that you:
- Use short functions
- Create functions that contain exactly one purpose
- Don’t use global variables
- Avoid using goto statements
- Get Familiar With The IDE
You don’t need to spend money on expensive software in order to create programs. Instead, you should get familiar with free tools such as Visual Studio Express Edition. You can download this free version of Microsoft Visual Studio here. Not only will you be able to create simple programs, but you will also be able to debug them.
Using an integrated debugger is an excellent way to find errors in your code quickly. Just as importantly, it will allow you to see the result of executing your program before running it. This is invaluable when testing new features, because you won’t have to waste time by trying out every option before finding the correct one.
Being the expert in using the computer is not an easy task for the person. The try of the person must be to use the method that will help him in learning the language in a better way. A person can plan to visit the official sites on which he will get the data of the various available options. A person can be not possible to fast-forward, aborting and plan to do the further proceedings.
- Don’t Fear Writing Tests
Tests are extremely valuable when learning a new language. They help ensure that your program works correctly. Testing is especially helpful when you’re learning a complex topic. A test suite allows you to check that your program behaves correctly under a wide variety of conditions. It also helps you identify bugs that you might otherwise miss.
- Understand How Different Languages Work
There are many programming languages out there, each with its own set of rules. Even within one language, there are often differences between implementations. Knowing about these differences is vital when you’re trying to learn a new language.
For example, consider the following two snippets of code:
- Python
- JavaScript
Both of these languages have the word “hello” at the beginning of every line. However, JavaScript treats the word “hello” as a statement while Python treats it as a keyword. This means that JavaScipt prints “Hello World!” whereas Python prints “Hello world”.
- Master Assembler
Assembler is a low-level language that you can use to manipulate machine instructions. This type of programming is very difficult, so mastering assembler is not recommended unless you really enjoy coding. Some programmers have developed entire careers around creating assemblers.
- Have A Good Sense Of Humor
If you find programming challenges, you may need a break every once in a while. Taking a break can help improve your mood and relieve stress. On the other hand, if you’re constantly stressed, then it could negatively affect your ability to program effectively.
Having a good sense of humor can also help reduce stress. There’s nothing wrong with taking the occasional joke, provided that you don’t get offended.
