Learn Programming in 10 Years

" Learn thoroughly whatever is to be learnt;
Then, let the conduct be worthy of this learning "

Thirukkural : #391

I just came across a wonderful article titled "Teach Yourself Programming in Ten Years" crafted by Peter Norvig. I would recommend the article for anyone looking at a career in the IT Industry.

It takes a lot of effort, discipline, sacrifice & experience to learn & understand a subject, let alone master it. An artifact that claims to offer a "shortcut" to learning in a particular subject in a very short time, is simply dubious in it's claim.

You may probably get an insight into the subject being discussed, but learning takes its own time. You my need to encounter many "aha!" moments to ultimately arrive at an understanding of a small part of the subject.

I feel that the books that claim - "learn x in y days/hours" are best to simply get a "foot in the door". You can get hooked to the topic and the books do justice in enticing your interest in the topics. I would recommend these books if you need to quickly get an outline of a subject and start work on it - and, probably plan to learn on the fly.

A good example is the software books with similar titles - you can quickly learn the syntax & replicate some of the code recipes shown in the book & achieve small-time victories.

However, if you are looking for a long term solution, there is no shortcut.

Many thanks to Thiruvalluvar and Peter Norvig !

Which Programming Language is good ?

"...One Ring to rule them all, One Ring to find them,
One Ring to bring them all and in the darkness bind them...."

Lord of the Rings

The topic has been debated numerous times in the past, in various Forums, Newsgroups, mailing lists, coffee tables,etc. - but, it still goes on. The answer has always been the same - you need to choose the right tool for the right job. The mythical "Silver Bullet" does not exist & there will never be one.

You need to decide the tool to use for a particular job & use that tool correctly. It's no use trying to debate over the "best" language & these discussions are simply absurd.

I think this "old" article by Tim Daneliuk summarizes the thought process that goes on in these kind of debates.

Moral of the story : There is no Silver Bullet. There is no One Ring.