Programmers are engineers who design, fix, and maintain most of the technological functions we enjoy on mobile phones or PCs. From your email to the weather app you check before leaving home daily, they’re all brain products of programmers.
The global software development industry hit a whopping $429.29 billion valuation in 2021 and is expected to cross the $500 billion mark before 2030. So there’s no better time to be a programmer than now.
Now you’ve seen how big the industry is and how important the work is, you’re probably wondering what it takes to become a programmer. Worry not: we’ve got you covered.
This thorough guide will show you everything you need to become a programmer.
A Step-by-Step Guide for Becoming a Programmer
Choose an Industry You Want to Focus On
Many people mistake programming and software development for being strictly a technological field, but programming covers different industries too. Recent studies showed that roughly 70% of coding jobs are not tech related.
Some other industries where programming is important include agriculture, health, finance, and sports. So take a moment to decide what you’re passionate about. It should help give you a brief glimpse of your future as a programmer.
However, you shouldn’t worry about being confined to one industry. The skills you developed in your specialized industry can apply to other industries too.
Know the Programming Languages You Need to Learn
There are currently over 700 programming languages in existence. But worry not, you don’t have to learn all of them. That’s why it’s important to know the industry and the type of programmer you want to be. This resolve will guide you on the languages you should learn.
Generally, you can either be a front-end or back-end programmer. Front-end programmers handle the portion of the app or website that people interact with. They’re in charge of aesthetics and determine how things appear to the user. Their main function is ensuring users have easy and simple access to a site’s features. They also maintain efficiency and proper performance onsite.
On the other hand, back-end programmers handle things that users never see but enjoy. For example, they deal with databases, servers, and everything involved in keeping a website active.
The side you choose will determine the languages you prioritize. Here are some of the major languages you should expect to learn.
- HTML
- CSS
- JavaScript
- Java
- SQL
Start Learning!
Now that you have identified your industry and the languages you must learn, the next step is to start learning.
There are different ways you can learn. If you’re ready to dedicate time to learning programming, you can apply for a college degree in computer science. It generally cycles around four years to complete the course and will require you to gain more practical experience before you fully launch your career. It also helps you build a solid network of like-minded programmers.
If you’re too busy to pursue a degree or already have one, bootcamps are an incredible option. They’re cheaper and more flexible than undergraduate degrees. Bootcamps offer specific practical programming knowledge in roughly four to five months. However, some might last for up to a year.
Finally, you can independently learn programming by taking online courses that include books, tutorial videos, tests, and projects. This process is a personal approach to programming and is the cheapest option of the three. However, it takes great discipline and is generally not as easy.
Start Practicing and Applying for Jobs
That’s one of the good things about programming; you don’t have to get a job at a top tech firm before you start working. Creativity is key here; start your projects, and they will help you search for jobs.
If you’re looking to break into the health industry, you can practice by creating a simple website that shows people the closest hospitals to them. A good portfolio showcasing your skills is far better than a well-written CV in a practical industry like programming.
After developing a good portfolio, you can start applying for jobs. Attend local programming conferences around your area, connect with fellow programmers, and talk to experts online. If you’re having difficulty getting jobs, you can search online; many companies are specific in giving out remote jobs.
You can also try freelance sites like Upwork or Fiverr for one-time contracts and paychecks per hour. However, don’t expect to land a job weeks or months after you start. It takes time; while you wait, you can keep working on personal projects and build your portfolio.
The Bottom Line
A decision to go into programming is a very smart one. In addition to the good work you’ll be doing, it’s also one of the highest-paying jobs today.
However, before starting, choose an industry you’re passionate about. Decide on the type of programmer you want to be and the languages you must learn. Lastly, start a course, work on personal projects and apply for jobs. We wish you all the best in your pursuit.