By Dhanian | CodeWithDhanian

Explore My Coding Resources → codewithdhanian.gumroad.com

Introduction

If I could go back to my very first day of learning to code, I wouldn’t do things the hard, messy, and scattered way I did.

I’d focus, simplify my learning journey, and avoid years of frustration.

In this blog post, I’m sharing exactly how I would learn to code if I could start over — step-by-step, practical, and real.

1. Choose One Programming Language and Stick To It

I wouldn’t waste time jumping between languages. I would pick JavaScript because:

  • It's beginner-friendly
  • Works for web, backend, and mobile
  • Has endless job opportunities
  • Huge developer community

Alternative: Python is great too — especially for data, AI, and automation.

2. Master Coding Fundamentals Before Anything Else

Skipping fundamentals is a mistake. I’d focus deeply on:

  • Variables & Data Types
  • Functions & Parameters
  • Loops & Conditions
  • Arrays & Objects
  • Debugging & Problem Solving

Strong fundamentals make everything easier later.

3. Build Real Projects From Day One

Theory is good, but building is better. I would create small but real projects like:

  • Calculator
  • To-do List
  • Weather App
  • Quiz Game
  • My Personal Portfolio

Projects teach faster than tutorials.

4. Learn Git & GitHub Early

Version control is a must-have skill. I’d learn to:

  • Use Git commands
  • Push code to GitHub
  • Collaborate with others
  • Host my projects online

5. Learn HTML & CSS Properly

Even backend developers need basic frontend skills. I’d focus on:

  • HTML Elements & Structure
  • CSS Styling Techniques
  • Responsive Design
  • Flexbox & CSS Grid
  • Mobile-First Design

6. Master JavaScript Beyond Basics

Once comfortable, I’d go deeper into:

  • ES6+ Features
  • DOM Manipulation
  • Asynchronous JavaScript
  • Fetch API & Promises
  • Modules & Components

7. Learn a Popular Framework

Frameworks help you build faster and smarter. I’d choose one:

  • React.js (Frontend) or
  • Node.js with Express (Backend)

Not both at the same time.

8. Understand Databases

Storing data is a key skill. I’d learn:

  • MongoDB for NoSQL
  • MySQL or PostgreSQL for SQL
  • CRUD Operations (Create, Read, Update, Delete)

9. Learn APIs & JSON

Almost every modern app uses APIs. I’d understand:

  • REST API Basics
  • Fetching Data from APIs
  • Sending Data to APIs
  • JSON Data Format

10. Pick a Clear Path/Specialization

Once comfortable, I’d choose a direction:

  • Frontend Developer
  • Backend Developer
  • Fullstack Developer
  • Mobile App Developer
  • Data Engineer
  • DevOps Engineer

Clarity speeds up growth.

11. Build Bigger Projects & Contribute To Open Source

Experience matters. I’d:

  • Build real-world apps
  • Contribute to GitHub projects
  • Freelance for small clients
  • Work on coding challenges

12. Improve Soft Skills

Technical skills are not enough. I’d also improve:

  • Googling Effectively
  • Reading Documentation
  • Writing Clean Code
  • Time Management
  • Communication Skills

13. Monetize My Skills

Coding opens doors to earning online. I’d explore:

  • Freelancing
  • Building SaaS Products
  • Selling Ebooks or Courses
  • Creating Coding Content
  • Selling Templates & Code → Like this: codewithdhanian.gumroad.com

Final Words To My Past Self

"Consistency beats speed. Focus beats hype. Projects beat tutorials. And coding is a life-changing skill — if you treat it seriously."

Ready To Start Smarter?

Explore my coding ebooks, resources, and tools:

→ codewithdhanian.gumroad.com

Start slow. Be patient. Build daily. The results will follow.