The Start of an Unexpected Journey
Have you ever looked at a computer screen filled with lines of code and wondered how anyone could make sense of it all? If you’re like me, that image was downright terrifying. Just a year ago, the idea of learning to code seemed impossible—especially with no prior experience. I remember sitting at my desk, overwhelmed by syntax errors and confused by coding concepts that felt like a foreign language. But here’s the thing: learning to code with no experience isn’t about being a natural genius or having a technical background. It’s about persistence, resilience, and celebrating small wins.
In this post, I’ll share the raw truth about the highs and lows of my coding journey. From feeling completely lost in my first “Hello World!” program to finally cracking the code (pun intended) and landing my first job interview. Buckle up, because the ride of learning to code with no experience is as thrilling as it is challenging. But trust me, it’s worth every bump along the way.
The Initial Struggles: Where Do I Even Start?
If you’re learning to code with no experience, one of the biggest challenges is simply knowing where to start. The amount of programming languages, frameworks, and resources is enough to make anyone’s head spin. I remember being confused about whether to learn HTML first or dive straight into JavaScript. And don’t even get me started on those cryptic error messages!
Syntax: The New Language
The first few weeks were brutal. Syntax errors popped up everywhere, and debugging felt like solving a riddle with missing clues. I was spending more time Googling “how to fix this error” than actually writing code. Concepts like variables and functions, which seemed so easy on paper, took hours to wrap my head around.
This is where I leaned heavily on freeCodeCamp and SheCodes workshops. These resources broke things down into bite-sized lessons that didn’t overwhelm me. I documented my first impressions in a previous blog post, Getting Started with freeCodeCamp: My Learning Experience, which helped me build a strong foundation in web development.
FAQ: How long does it take to learn coding from scratch?
There’s no definitive answer to this, as it depends on how much time you dedicate to learning and your personal learning style. For me, it’s taken about ten months of consistent study to feel somewhat comfortable. However, I am balancing a full-time job at this time, so your mileage may vary.
Persistence: The Secret Sauce to Success
When I first started, I expected rapid progress—like learning to ride a bike. But coding wasn’t like that. After weeks of practice, I still struggled with basic concepts, and frustration set in. I even considered giving up. But what kept me going was a simple idea: persistence.
How Persistence Paid Off
Coding is an iterative process, much like life. You try something, fail, learn, and try again. There were many moments when I hit a wall, but I learned that every failure is a step closer to success. One of the most rewarding moments was when I finally built my first complete project—a weather app. The journey was full of roadblocks, but finishing that project felt like crossing a marathon finish line.
FAQ: How do I stay motivated when learning to code?
Great question! Staying motivated is one of the toughest parts of learning to code with no experience. I recommend setting small, achievable goals. For example, aim to finish one coding challenge a week or build a simple project every month. It’s also important to celebrate small wins, no matter how minor they may seem. A finished “Hello World” program is a triumph in itself!
The Best Resources for Learning to Code with No Experience
One thing I quickly learned is that not all coding resources are created equal. Some tutorials assumed prior knowledge, which left me feeling even more lost. Here’s a list of resources that helped me the most:
1. freeCodeCamp
FreeCodeCamp was my go-to for foundational coding skills, especially their HTML, CSS, and JavaScript tutorials. The structured lessons helped me take things one step at a time. If you’re just getting started, I highly recommend it.
2. SheCodes Workshops
As I mentioned in my blog post, Winning the SheCodes Foundation Scholarship: How It Changed My Path, the community support and project-based learning in SheCodes were crucial in helping me stay motivated.
3. MDN Web Docs
When I needed deeper explanations, MDN Web Docs provided clear and detailed guides on various programming concepts. Whether you’re struggling with JavaScript or want to learn about APIs, this is a goldmine of information.
The Turning Point: From Confusion to Confidence
The real turning point came around month seven of my coding journey. I was still working full-time, squeezing coding into evenings and weekends. It was tough, but one day, something clicked. I began to understand how different coding concepts connect. Instead of blindly following tutorials, I started experimenting with small projects on my own.
In fact, I wrote about this pivotal moment in my post, How I Balance Full-Time Work and Studying Coding, where I explained how creating a realistic study plan helped me stay on track. For anyone feeling overwhelmed, trust me—it gets easier. The confusion slowly turns into clarity, and the once-foreign syntax becomes second nature.
How has your coding journey been so far?
Leave a comment below, and let’s discuss!
Key Takeaways for Beginner Coders
- Start Small – Don’t try to learn everything at once. Focus on one language or technology and master the basics before moving on.
- Be Consistent – Coding requires daily practice. Even 30 minutes a day can make a difference over time.
- Celebrate Wins – Whether it’s fixing a bug or completing a small project, celebrate your progress.
- Embrace Failure – Mistakes are inevitable. The important thing is learning from them.
- Use the Right Resources – Stick to beginner-friendly platforms like freeCodeCamp and SheCodes until you gain confidence.
Why You Should Keep Going: The Long-Term Rewards
After months of hard work, the fruits of my labor have finally started to show. I now begin to understand coding principles on a deeper level and can troubleshoot issues more effectively. Coding transformed from a frustrating task to a passion. More importantly, it opened up new career possibilities.
In my post, How Coding Transformed My Career Prospects, I discuss how learning to code has broadened my horizons and empowered me to explore new job opportunities, including front-end development roles. If you stay committed, the rewards are endless—whether it’s landing a job, building your own projects, or just gaining a new skill set.
Your Journey, Your Story
Learning to code with no experience is challenging but incredibly rewarding. Whether you’re just starting or already deep into your journey, remember that everyone’s path looks different. Keep showing up, and you’ll be surprised at how far you can go.
If you enjoyed this post, check out more of my journey in From Retrenchment to Reinvention: My Coding Journey After Losing My Job. I would love to hear about your experiences—drop a comment below or connect with me on social media!
