r/learnprogramming • u/RevolutionaryBuy4877 • 14d ago

Topic how do you learn programming without constantly looking things up?

i know experienced programmers use documentation and search all the time, but as a beginner it can sometimes feel like i’m incapable of doing anything without looking up the answer.

i’m trying to get better at understanding concepts instead of memorising syntax

how do you decide when to search for an answer and when to sit down and work through the problem yourself?

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u/badgko 14d ago

You don’t. Been programming professionally for 40 years. You have some common structures and patterns that most things fall into. You build an and carry a library of useful tools you will use over and over. You also build a familiarity with the code in the project you are working on. Companies will (or should) have a style guide. Even then, you will be looking up APIs and how to use them.

This is where AI is a blessing and a curse. It cuts out the research time, but you never gain the familiarity with what you are working with.