Career In coding for non-science students

What is Coding or programming?

Coding or programming is the art of communicating with computers. In simple terms, it is a list of commands instructing the computer what to do, and how to do it, so that the computer follows the same instructions.

Coding enables the creation of computer software, websites, apps, among others, and this code or set of instructions is written in a predefined programming language that computers can understand such as Java, Python, C++, and R. When it comes to coding as a profession, the most common conception is that candidates with a background in Computer Science would be the ones to easily find jobs in technology companies. However, it is also very much possible that non-technical students could be equally skilled and ready to be employed in tech roles. With the will to learn and a set of basic analytical and abstract thinking skills, anyone, irrespective of their educational background can learn to code.

Essential qualities

To become a professional coder, the basic and most essential skill is to become proficient in at least one coding language, and understanding the use of developer tools. In addition to learning coding or programming languages, some vital skills to be an effective programmer include

Analytical skills

Students need to develop a mindset to expect the computer only to do what they explicitly tell the system to do Therefore, it is important for coders to have the ability to analyze situations and write codes that provide solutions to the problems at hand.

Communication

It includes not only verbal and listening skills but also writing skills that come in handy when candidates need to write reports and communicate efficiently

Abstract thinking

As code cannot be physically observed, the student needs to learn how to visualize it to make it more sensible.

Self-reliance

Learning to code can be a challenging task, and students have to be able to stay dedicated. Further, students should not depend on others to solve technical problems and instead should solve it themselves.

Attention to detail

While detailing is very much essential in every career, it is of utmost importance while programming. As coders would operate in parallel on several aspects of an application it is a must to be able to pay attention to detail.

Problem-solving ability

In the field of programming, learning to solve problems is as important as being a good coder, and so is the love and inclination for problem-solving in its own nature. Understanding and researching computer languages, frameworks, and algorithms help develop this ability (The author Prateek Shukla is
co-founder & CEO, Masai School)

 

From - Times of India

Published on 4th October 2021.