It's definitely a plus if you're already an avid user but I think it shouldn't be a requirement. Say, if you wanted to learn about compilers, you can efficiently extract a lot more knowledge by going through the source and docs of a real-world compiler project, regardless of your usage, than by merely reading compiler texts.

0Thread HN

Learning to code. One Week In. 14 years ago

Glad to hear that you're committing to learn programming. Do you have a specific app/project to pursue in mind? I raise this because when I first started programming, what really hammered the lessons in was actually trying to build a non-trivial application (which in my case was an invoicing app that I hoped a local business would buy). Books and tutorials are useful to learn how independent simple pieces fit together but the lessons will not sink in until you actually try to use the concepts you learn to solve problems beyond textbook-like exercises.

Also, having a specific project in mind while learning will force you to actively think of ways how a certain concept/construct might be useful. Good luck!

0Thread HN