Do not ask for help and discard old technologies: common mistakes of beginners according to Java-mentor Anton Kupreichik

With this text, we begin a series of materials in which the mentors of our Java University share their experience and knowledge. Anton Kupreichik, a developer from Minsk, talks about the most common mistakes novice programmers make.

Discard “old” technologies

There are newer technologies and older ones. Many of us understand that, most likely, they will not write on old technologies. But it must be taken into account that the new technology is still made on the basis of the old one: under the hood there will be the principles of the old technology. When people learn programming, they sometimes omit old technologies: “No, I don’t want to learn the old, I want the new right away!”. I also had such a problem. For example, there is the Spring framework and there is Java EE. It must be understood that Spring also contains Java EE and its study cannot be avoided in order to eventually master the framework. In addition, there are a certain number of vacancies where old technologies are still needed. However, do not forget to focus on new popular ones as well. This issue needs a balance.

Do not ask for help from colleagues or acquaintances

This is especially true for complex tasks that take a lot of time. Sometimes a person is simply interested in solving a complex problem that takes a lot of time. But it happens that due to psychological barriers, he cannot ask for advice on solving a problem when it is really needed. For example, sitting for 3 hours on a task instead of asking a colleague and solving the problem in 20 minutes. If there is such a psychological barrier, then we need to work on it. It's okay when you ask a question, because you're learning.

Write primitive code

Writing good code is not for everyone, but it is necessary. Don't worry when you write primitive and multi-line code: everyone goes through it. With experience, you will learn how to write concise and understandable solutions.

Don't specify if not clear

Most errors arise from misunderstandings: for example, when a programmer did not understand something, started writing code and made a mistake. Don't be afraid to ask again.

Invent the fifth wheel

If your code is simply and elegantly written and works well, there is no point in inventing something new. The solution is appropriate where it solves the problem, and does not “decorate” the project. This will make your job easier and save time.

Ignore new learning formats

When I studied programming, I went to offline courses, where they told me live what was right and what was wrong. In general, I am for live communication, but the era of coronavirus has allowed us to study or work remotely, which is also good. It would be strange not to use it. However, there are still many people who are not adapted to learning online. Basically, we are talking about adult programmers-switchers.

Do not separate the work area and the rest area

If you are working/learning remotely then there is a temptation to do it from the comfort of your couch. But it's not right. Allocate yourself at least one corner in the room where you put a table, chair, laptop and work behind it. This will make it easier for you to study.

Do not take notes

When you stumble across the same problem over and over again, it's a good idea to write down the solution - either on your laptop, or in an app, or in a workbook. Sooner or later, you will remember how to solve a recurring error, but taking notes will save you time.

Go where you don't like

If the soul does not lie in some occupation, then you should not torture yourself and chase trends. It would seem that this is an obvious truth, but many people do what they do not like. Just honestly answer yourself the question: “Is this what I want?”. If yes, then feel free to move forward. We invite you to speculate: what mistakes are most often made by beginners? Share your opinion in the comments ;)