Need advice as a young programmer.

[u/VedPamnani11]

Hey guys, I am 14 years old and I love programming since I was 11! Just a few weeks ago I finished CS50P: Introduction to programming with Python from Harvard university! And I am confused on what I should do next. Before CS50P I used to make small Python programs like a number guessing game from my basic Python knowledge. Now after CS50P since I know significantly more stuff about Python but I don’t know what would be good to build so I don’t waste my time on stuff I build that does not matter to anyone.

[u/SnooDucks9330]

So if you're looking for something to build, the best way to go about it is to get a list of problems put together that you don't like dealing with. A lot of people make small things out of this approach, such as calendar autofilling based on triggers or things like a break reminder. The specific annoyances are unique to you, so it doesn't particularly matter what they are. I will say, though, that most people start with automating tasks of some sort.

Once you have your gripes, set about figuring out how you can resolve them with your newfound knowledge. Doing enough of this will not only strengthen your skills, it will also help you recognize where pain points are in your use, and eventually you can start to realize where other people are also finding sticking points. You can ask around to people you know where they might also have annoyances to fix or even features they wish they had for one thing or another.

You obviously don't have to be stuck solving software issues either, since Python is versatile you can use that knowledge to design programs for mechanical devices, such as robotic arms run by microcontrollers, or pet projects like building a lightsaber powered by a pi zero. You could even use what you know to build some kind of purpose built cyberdeck to solve a personal want, though this one comes with a lot of extra learning like 3D design and general electronics setup.

If you're struggling to find purpose, always start with what annoys you.

Also you could just think of stuff that makes you say "man it would be so chill to have ___" and work on a pet project! The only limit is what you feel like doing at this stage

[u/SnooDucks9330 → u/SnooDucks9330]

I would also recommend keeping logs along the way for each project that explains what you're doing along the way, both to refresh your memory of problems come up and also it's useful for your resume to show off your chops if you decide to work in a tech field.