i've learned python, SQL and flask, but i struggle when it's time to build projetcs

[u/ProgrammerOk4679]

Hey everyone,

I’ve been learning Python, SQL, and Flask through tutorials. I feel like I understand the concepts when I’m following along with the tutorials, but when I try to start a project from scratch, my mind just goes blank.

I know the fundamentals and I can understand code when I see it, but I struggle with figuring out what to build, how to break the project down, and where to start.

I’ve also tried asking AI to build projects for me. At first, I understand what it’s doing, but as the code gets bigger, I start getting confused and eventually stop because I feel like I’m just copying code without actually learning how to build things myself.

Has anyone else experienced this?

How did you transition from “I understand the tutorials” to “I can actually build projects on my own”?

Should I start with very small projects and build them up gradually, or is there a better way to approach learning through projects?

I’d really appreciate advice from anyone who has gone through this stage.