Mastering Problem-Solving: A Guide to Becoming a Skilled Programmer
Now that I have learned how to write code, what comes next? In this career, the most important skill every programmer must have is problem-solving. Every day presents new challenges, and you'll encounter new problems regularly. If you don't know how to think and solve problems, it will be a big issue. Over time, you'll become creative and experienced in defining and solving problems. There will be times when you face problems with no known solution, ones that no one has encountered before. By then, you should have enough knowledge and experience to solve them in the best way possible.
D-A-I
Let's discuss some steps on how to handle a problem. For example, we want to create a simple calculator app, so let's break down the steps of making this app using the letters D-A-I.
Define:
We need to define the problem and its scope.
So, what we need to do is create an app that takes numbers as input from the user, lets the computer calculate them, and then outputs the result of the desired operations on these numbers. It's as simple as that, without any need to solve complex equations.
Analysis:
Now it's time to brainstorm and come up with multiple solutions, or maybe just one. However, it's always better to have several solutions so you can later choose the best one
Create a design for the app that includes numbers and arithmetic operators.
We will have the user enter numbers and the arithmetic operation they want to use between each number, like this: (1 + 2 + 3 × 34).
Next, we will ensure that the arithmetic operator is valid so we can complete the equation. If it's not valid, we will inform the user that there is an error in the inputs.
If everything is valid, we will instruct the computer to calculate the result, keeping in mind that multiplication is done first, following the standard rules (which the computer applies by default).
Implement:
Finally, there's the implementation process, where you turn the steps and solutions you developed during the analysis into actual code.
Divide & Conquer
We understood the steps to handle a problem, and now we will discuss how to think about a problem.
This approach is common not only in programming but also in life. When faced with a problem, we break it down into smaller parts, solve each part individually, and then combine all the solutions to solve the larger problem.
Don't reinvent the wheel
To be successful in your career, don't reinvent the wheel if someone else has already done it. Using existing solutions saves time, energy, and increases efficiency. BUT, as a beginner, do reinvent the wheel. Why??? Because it helps you understand how algorithms and solutions work, which can help you be creative and think outside the box in the future.
After trying hard to solve a problem, if you find yourself still stuck and unsure of what to do, start asking for help. You can search online or ask someone experienced to assist you. Sharing the problem and discussing it with others might lead to a solution even before they offer one.
The Power of Daily Problem Solving: Boost Your Abilities
Making problem-solving a full-time skill to work on is beneficial because it helps you excel in your career. There are many things you can do to help develop this skill.
Games:
Yes, it's a real thing! Playing chess, solving puzzles, and engaging in competitive games help you develop critical and strategic thinking.
Life challenges:
Budgeting and dealing with life problems also help with this because they develop your logical thinking and planning skills.
Programming contests and problems:
Finally, there are many sites that provide coding problems, ranging from easy for beginner coders to challenging for professionals. These problems help improve your coding skills, allowing you to write more optimized and time-efficient code.
Here are some top websites to help develop your problem-solving skills: