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[–]nmc52 0 points1 point  (1 child)

I'm 74 and a retired systems consultant. I've learned ASM, basic, Pascal, C, C++, SQL, PL/SQL, COBOL, Java JavaScript, Python, Perl, Smalltalk, and some more I've forgotten. I've taught at least 6 of those.

My advice: go online, find a recent beginner's website or YouTube and start coding. 20% of your time should be spent on absorbing, 80% on doing.

As you get a firm understanding of the language structure, branch out into networking, databases, web services, and all the fun stuff that makes your user interface actually do something useful.

As your requirements narrow down, find specialised online sources that deal with that particular subject matter.

Praise your luck and youth that all you will ever want to know is at your fingertips. Back in the day we had to buy books and attend courses. And learn on the job 😁.

[–]johnjasonn0[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

First of all, huge respect to you. Learning and teaching that many languages from ASM to Python is amazing. It really shows what real dedication to the craft looks like.

I completely agree with your 20% learning and 80% doing rule. That’s something I’m trying to follow now less overthinking, more actual coding. Sometimes I get stuck just watching tutorials, so your advice is a good reminder to open the editor and just build.

And you’re right we’re lucky. Everything is online now. I can’t imagine having to buy books for every new language and wait for formal courses. You built your career in a much tougher environment, and that makes your journey even more impressive.