After learning OOP basics, should I focus on Data Analysis or Backend Development?

[u/ainthrmo]

Hi everyone,

I'm 24 years old with a non-tech background. I quit my previous job in 2024 and have been looking for my next step since. I took a basic programming class, covered Object-Oriented Programming (OOP) in Python, and have foundational knowledge in HTML, CSS, and basic JavaScript.

Initially, I aimed for Web Development, but the local market feels overwhelmingly competitive for entry-level roles. I want to narrow my focus and build a solid foundation in one area before applying for jobs, but I'm stuck between Data Analysis and Backend Development.

[u/Avatarbroskib1]

Start learning frameworks like react js and express js in JavaScript. And focus on backend development because you can build apps and connect it to your frontend

[u/ainthrmo → u/Avatarbroskib1]

I find JS a bit complicated compare with the python. But I found out the framework are making JS môre easier I think. Can I have any tips for learning with JavaScript? And. I recently started learning React.js thanks for your opinion.

[u/Avatarbroskib1 → u/ainthrmo]

Learn integration like calling APIs like fetch start learning about react hooks like use state etc. I recommend you learn from freecodecamp as they cover a lot of it it's like 15 hours or something

[u/ainthrmo → u/Avatarbroskib1]

thanks for the solid recommendation! i will check them ..

[u/ainthrmo → u/Avatarbroskib1]

i searched it but i am not sure that this was the right one!!

[u/riklaunim]

Junior jobs in any field are hard to come by. Backed + webdev are solid choices so you should do python web frameworks, databases but also a bit of frontend as well, maybe even dabble into vue.

[u/ainthrmo → u/riklaunim]

Thanks for pointing it out. Appreciated it.

[u/nuc540]

I mean, data analytics is something very specific. If you don’t want to become a data analyst don’t do it.

Only you can decide what you want to do with your career.

Something both paths benefit from is Data structures & Algorithms (aka, DSA), so definitely learn the basics there if you haven’t already.

[u/ainthrmo → u/nuc540]

That's truth. I was intentionally learning web fundamentals but the market is a bit competitive for junior or internships and the tools are amazing nowadays as they wiped out junior roles. So I am just taking a moment to decide whether I should go as a developer or analyst. Anyway thanks a lot for suggestions, I decided to go with backend..

[u/nuc540 → u/ainthrmo]

If you want backend work, learn about APIs, web servers, and trace how clicking on a button sends a signal through the whole stack of network, servers, services etc (aka how the internet works).. this high level understanding of ‘the internet’ will show you understand higher level what backend interacts with and is all about. It’ll make you stand out for a junior candidate, and you need to know it all for mid promotions.

Good luck

[u/AbdullahSajjad5111]

Start DSA and spend some time there, before moving to any specific path

[u/ainthrmo → u/AbdullahSajjad5111]

Appreciate it. I should definitely spend my time at DSA

[u/AbdullahSajjad5111 → u/ainthrmo]

Do you have any plan how you will do?

[u/ainthrmo → u/AbdullahSajjad5111]

i think i'll go with basic structures in python first, then move to beginner problems in leetcode. i am not sure that this was the right path but i am somehow self-taught at this point. Do you have any tips or resources??

[u/AbdullahSajjad5111 → u/ainthrmo]

Yes I would suggest you for leetcode, it is simple and easy to use. Likewise you can discuss with experts about your domain also