Are Self Taught Coders Better?

In today's digital age, the question of whether self-taught programmers are better than those who attend formal education remains a topic of debate. Many argue that self-teaching offers flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and the ability to learn at one's own pace. Saurav Rawat, a self-taught programmer, shares his experience and insights on this subject.

Introduction to Self-Learning in Programming

With the vast amount of free resources available online, self-taught coding has become increasingly common. Users can access comprehensive tutorials, video courses, and online forums to learn programming languages and skills without the constraints of formal education. For instance, if you want a free certificate, you can find numerous platforms offering such opportunities.

Personal Experiences of a Self-Taught Programmer

Hello, my name is Saurav Rawat, and I am a self-taught programmer. Currently, I am studying Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA). Here is how I embarked on my programming journey.

First Steps in Programming

During my first semester, I began with the C language. Initially, I was quite disappointed with C due to its verbose syntax. This led me to seriously consider changing my career path. However, during the lockdown, I had a sudden realization that I should use this time to learn something new. My mind sparked the idea of learning Python, a language that seemed both easy and enjoyable compared to C.

Learning Python on YouTube

I decided to start learning Python from YouTube resources. From 11 March 2020, I began watching beginner to advanced Python tutorials. Over the course of 15 days, which overlapped with the first lockdown, I completed 120 videos, practicing problems and working on projects. Within just 12 days, I had a solid grasp of the language.

From Novice to Developer

My journey from a beginner to a developer didn't stop there. I started working on my own virtual assistant AI project for a college presentation, as well as for demonstrating to friends how I made the most of the lockdown period. This project not only helped me in my studies but also motivated others to prepare for their careers.

Educational Resources and Benefits

I learned everything from scratch, relying on valuable resources like Harvard University's lectures and other high-quality YouTube videos. Investing time in these tutorials has been incredibly beneficial, and I encourage anyone passionate about programming to follow in my footsteps.

Conclusion and Encouragement

Self-learning is the best approach if you are truly passionate about something. There is no need to hesitate; start your journey right now. Not only does self-learning offer flexibility, but it also allows you to delve into topics that interest you most. I hope my experience inspires you to pursue your programming goals with determination and enthusiasm. Best of luck for your future!

Thank you for considering the journey of a self-taught programmer and the benefits it can offer.