Don’t 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 mentors from our Java University share their experience and knowledge. Developer from Minsk Anton Kupreichik talks about the most common mistakes made by novice programmers.

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 we must take into account that the new technology is still made on the basis of the old one: under the hood there will be operating principles of the old technology. When people learn programming, they sometimes leave out old technologies: “No, I don’t want to learn the old, I want the new right away!” I also had this problem. For example, there is the Spring framework and there is Java EE. You need to understand that Spring also contains Java EE and you cannot avoid studying it in order to eventually master the framework. In addition, there are a number of vacancies that still require old technologies. However, do not forget to focus on new popular ones. There needs to be a balance in this matter.

Do not ask colleagues or acquaintances for help

This is especially true for complex tasks that take a lot of time. Sometimes a person is simply interested in solving a complex problem on his own 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, he sits for 3 hours on a problem instead of asking a colleague and solving the problem in 20 minutes. If there is such a psychological barrier, then you need to work on it. It's okay to ask a question because you're learning.

Write primitive code

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

Do not specify if it is 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.

Inventing a 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 work easier and save time.

Ignore new learning formats

When I was learning programming, I took offline courses where they told me live what was right and what was wrong. In general, I am for face-to-face communication, but the coronavirus era has allowed us to study or work remotely, which is also good. It would be strange not to use this. However, there are still many people who are not suited to online learning. We are mainly talking about adult switch programmers.

Do not separate the work area and rest area

If you're working/studying remotely, it's tempting to do it from the comfort of your couch. But it's not right. Give yourself at least one corner in the room where you will put a table, chair, laptop and work at it. This will make it easier to get ready to study.

Don't take notes

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

Go where you don't like

If your soul is not in the mood for some activity, then you shouldn’t 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 the question: “Is this what I want?” If yes, then feel free to move forward. We invite you to speculate: what mistakes do beginners most often make? Share your opinion in the comments ;)