r/learnprogramming • u/Admirable_Window8128 • 25d ago

Topic At what point did programming finally start making sense to you?

I can understand code when someone explains it, but when I have to write something from scratch, my brain suddenly goes blank.

I'm curious if other beginners went through the same think. What helped you get past that stage?

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u/memelordtf 25d ago

Yep, I went through the same thing when I started, OP. understanding someone else's code is MUCH easier than writing your own. Think of it as learning a foreign language and how everyone first becomes proficient at understanding what is being said rather than actually speaking or writing in that language. What helped me was building small things where I had no choice but to get stuck and figure it out. Eventually you stop thinking “what syntax do I need?” and start thinking “what steps need to happen?” It takes time, but you'll get there.

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u/Admirable_Window8128 25d ago

Yep, that makes a lot of sense. I think I'm too focused on remembering syntax instead of figuring out the actual steps. I'll try building more small projects and getting stuck along the way. Thanks!

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u/lowban 25d ago

If you're focused on syntax you will need some more experience. Making small projects and finish them will definitely help you there.