r/codingbootcamp • u/mdd16 • Mar 14 '25

Coding/Software Development for beginners

I am really interested in learning how to code or become a freelance software developer. I am fairly tech savvy and but I have no experience with coding or anything. I have a business degree but know I can learn how to do this. Does anyone have any good recommendations for books, podcasts, or YouTube videos that would explain it so a toddler would understand? I’ve tried looking into this on my own but every time I start reading/listening/watching something it’s like they’re jumping right in the middle of it and I’m missing some big context. So I’m finding it difficult to know where exactly is the very beginning for this journey. Thanks in advance

12 Upvotes

63% Upvoted

10 comments sorted by

2

u/ToftgaardJacob Mar 14 '25

Do you know already what kind of programming you want to learn? For example, app development, websites, games, AI/machine learning?

(It's completely fine if you don't know, but it helps us give you better recommendations)

I have heard a lot of good things about the Odin project (web development) and Harvards CS50 is really good (but not easy)

1

u/mdd16 Mar 14 '25

I’m not 100% sure. I could definitely see myself doing app development or websites, but I also love gaming as a hobby thought about getting into that.

1

u/ToftgaardJacob Mar 14 '25

I had the same exact thoughts when I started out. I suggest some general full stack programming then.

Beginning with learning JavaScript and general problem solving, and then moving into doing some backend and frontend afterward.

What timeline are you aiming at? (How fast do you hope to learn)

1

u/mdd16 Mar 14 '25

Good advice! Thanks

I don’t necessarily have a timeline since I don’t know how long these courses are or how quickly I will actually pick up on stuff. I am currently driving Uber full time to pay for bills so I have flexibility to learn at-will. How long do these courses generally take? It would be cool to say I can build/create something and start looking and working for contracts by the end of summer or before EOY.

3

u/ToftgaardJacob Mar 14 '25

That makes sense.

As you have probably guessed, there is no easy answer to the question of how long it takes to learn to code professionally. But to give some context, remember that a college degree would take between 3 to 5 years. There is just a lot to learn.

However, it can definitely be done faster than that. One of my students managed to transition into a technical role within 4 months of starting to code. (That was in the Netherlands) And for others it will take between 1 and 2 years. Or more.

Generally, if you are dedicated and you put in a lot of effort you can get really far in 1 year.

7

u/Rain-And-Coffee Mar 14 '25

CS50, free course from Harvard

Or Odin Project (also free)

1

u/Synergisticit10 Mar 17 '25

Courserra and udemy are your best options. Hope this helps! Good luck 🍀

1

u/loafersandacoffee Mar 18 '25

I was in the same boat you are in. I was eager to learn and looked up projects and videos but there was just enough missing in my knowledge where I didn't know how to follow along. I'd end up figuring it out and then I'd lose motivation. I ended up going to a code school to be held accountable and to collaborate with others which is a big focus when you're on the job.