From Lost to Confident: How to See Improvement as a Junior Developer

Viktoria Bors-Pajuste - Feb 21 '23 - - Dev Community

Learning to code and working as a junior developer can be a challenging experience, and it can be difficult to see the progress you're making. It's easy to become discouraged, especially when you feel like you're not making any progress.

However, there are several ways to see improvement in your coding skills and grow as a developer. Here are some points to consider:

  1. Revisit old projects: One of the best ways to see improvement in your coding skills is to revisit old projects and refactor or update them using new frameworks or tools. By doing this, you can apply the new skills and knowledge you've gained and see how far you've come. Revisiting old projects can also help you identify areas for improvement, practice writing clean and efficient code, and demonstrate your growth to potential employers.
  2. Remember your early days: If you're already working as a junior developer, think back to your first weeks on the job. You may have felt lost or overwhelmed, but as time went on, you gained more confidence and understanding. Remembering how far you've come can help you stay motivated and focused on continuing to learn and improve.
  3. Take on challenging tasks: It's important not to get too comfortable with easy and repetitive tasks. Instead, take on challenging projects that will push you to learn and grow. By doing so, you'll be able to identify areas for improvement, practice new skills, and demonstrate your ability to tackle difficult problems.
  4. Celebrate your successes: Finally, it's important to take time to celebrate your successes. When you solve a difficult coding problem or complete a challenging project, take a moment to recognize your accomplishment. Celebrating your successes can help you stay motivated and focused on your goals.

Remember that progress takes time and effort, but with persistence and dedication, you can achieve your goals and become a successful developer.

How do you track your progress and measure improvement in your coding skills?

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