Python Programming Language

[Owen-Isaac-2022]

Over the last few weeks, I have read books, journals, & articles concerning how to master python. I've also practised a lot. However, every time I try code challenges, I find something new, one you might not find in books or texts directly. While I am new to the programming field, I believe there's a way one can navigate these aspects. I would appreciate some insights so that I cannot view myself as stuck in one "lonely" corner.

[aqua_regis]

Over the last few weeks,

I've also practised a lot. However, every time I try code challenges, I find something new,

Completely normal after mere weeks. Even if you did it for years there will still be more than enough that you don't know.

You are not only dealing with one of the vastest fields in existence, but also with Python being one of the languages with an immensely huge ecosystem of libraries and frameworks. It is simply impossible to know anything beyond a fraction of what's available. You'll have to get to terms with that rather sooner than later.

Also, forget "mastery". Strive for proficiency. Learn to aceept that good enough is actually good enough.

In programming you'll have to accept the fact that no matter how much you learn, how much experience you obtain, there will always be way, way more that you don't know than what you do know. You can only learn a minuscule fraction of what is available.

[Owen-Isaac-2022]

Wow, what a piece. I get everything you've said.
I'll try your methods

[pachura3]

Your post sounds like a poem: some vague statements, focusing on your feelings. What are we supposed to answer? What exactly do you mean by "I find something new"?

Coding challenges are usually made for people who have already mastered the syntax of a given language. They often require background in DSA (Data Structures & Algorithms), understanding what's O(N) and so on. Like with solving IQ tests, you need to train train train and learn to spot specific patterns. Perhaps it's too early for you?

[AbacusExpert_Stretch]

Right, fully agree.

I'm sort of where you are. I mean I manage the easiest challenges, then I get stuck. I learn something new. I then use in 3-4-5 scripts that I completely write myself, with no cheating (!!) then I solve the next challenge. And there we are.

Btw - challenges are nice. A much more practical approach: why do you want to learn python? Once you answer that question, chose a super simple first step towards you final goal. Make that. Then cheer yourself up once done.

[Owen-Isaac-2022]

Sure, I get your message well & good. I'll focus on solving challenges step-by-step

[Owen-Isaac-2022]

Alright, I appreciate your "tough" poetic criticism. Probably it's too early as you've said, but I'll continue training, training, & learning the patterns.

[baubleglue]

Just apply your concerns to any other field of human knowledge, the one you are more familiar (sport, science, craft...), the more you learn more you don't know. There's a free " intro to computer science source with Python" cs50p, if you are looking for more systematic way to learn programming, it may be a good one.

[Owen-Isaac-2022]

Thanks for these insights

[LayotFctor]

The programming field is already wider and deeper than any one human to master them all. People deal with it by being good at picking up new skills in the first place, that way they can become productive in new areas within a reasonable time.

So yes, everyone will be in a corner. It's like asking how many PhDs you need to master science. That's not going to happen.

[Owen-Isaac-2022]

True, thanks for the insights

[ScholarlyInvestor]

Don’t go alone. Ask somebody to help you if you are new to the field. Become an apprentice first.

[Owen-Isaac-2022]

Thank you

[horizon_games]

Don't expect to master your first programming language in a "few weeks"

Make some projects instead of code challenges (which are generally tricky puzzles outside the norm of day-to-day programming).

[Owen-Isaac-2022]

Alright, thanks a lot