Can Dedicated Programming Practice for 3 Hours Daily Turn You into an Expert in 1.5 Years?

Those two words, 'expert', often carry a stigma of hubris and overassuming. But if you are truly consistent and idealistically driven, becoming an expert in programming is a feasible goal. This article will guide you through the practical steps to achieve such a milestone in just 1.5 years.

Understanding the Requirement

Learning to program is fundamentally different from physically training, such as playing piano or touch typing. While physical skills require repetitive practice, programming is fundamentally a mental activity. Therefore, engaging in repetitive tasks isn't the best way to improve.

Why Practice Isn't Enough

Physical abilities like typing can be practiced through timed sessions, where improvements are tracked in terms of speed and accuracy. However, programming doesn't have physical components to practice. The essence of coding lies in problem-solving and logical thinking, which require different approaches.

How to Transform Practice into Progress

The key to improving your programming skills lies in setting up a variety of projects. Start with small, manageable tasks and gradually advance to more complex ones. This hands-on approach is what truly leads to mastery.

Source of Project Ideas

Several reliable sources can help you identify projects that will challenge you while building your expertise. Here are some popular platforms where you can find inspiration:

karan/Projects 7 Silly Programming Challenges Ideas for Coding Projects 6 Fun Projects to Code This Summer 40 Side Project Ideas for Software Engineers Reddit Thread on Interesting Coding Projects

These resources are just the tip of the iceberg. Keep adjusting your projects based on your proficiency level and interests.

Choosing Your Language

For beginners, JavaScript is an excellent choice. It's widely used and has a vast community for support. Here are some reference materials to help you get started:

MDN Web Docs - JavaScript Guide Basics of HTML and CSS from MDN Web Docs

Suggestions for a Structured Learning Path

Begin with beginner-friendly HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to build a solid foundation. W3Schools provides comprehensive online tutorials which cover these languages effectively:

HTML: W3Schools - HTML Tutorial CSS: W3Schools - CSS Tutorial JavaScript: W3Schools - JavaScript Tutorial

For more advanced learning, textbooks and language references from authoritative sources can be invaluable. In the early 1970s, these resources were the primary means of learning, and self-reliance was key to mastering the skills.

Conclusion

While you can't literally practice programming like a physical skill, consistent and innovative project work is the cornerstone of becoming an expert. Dedication to small but impactful projects, combined with a strong understanding of the fundamental concepts, will set you on the path to proficiency.