Stop Mugging Up the Code or Syntax

When I started learning the C language, I used to waste my time mugging up every syntax and also the sequence of steps — like this step comes after that one, and vice versa. That was my first big mistake — learning a programming language the same way I used to learn other subjects.

Syntax is just a way to write in a particular way to get what you want. You can find the syntax for any statement by searching on the web, so don't waste your time mugging it up.

Focus on Logic Development, Not Which Language You're Using

If you want to be a successful programmer, focus on logical thinking rather than which programming language you should start learning. Many students ask me this question — "Which language should I start learning?" My answer is: if you know the basics of computer science, like what an algorithm is (a sequence of instructions), what decomposition is (dividing your big problem into small tasks), and how to write pseudocode (the sequence of your logic), then it doesn't matter which language you learn. You can choose any language you're interested in and start applying your knowledge.

In short — first develop your logical thinking using any simple language. I'd suggest starting with block-based languages like Scratch to build that thinking before solving complex problems. If you're good at logical thinking, you're definitely going to succeed in any language, no matter what the industry uses in future.

Programmers get paid because they're good at solving problems. You never know which language you'll need in future to solve a particular problem, so your primary focus should be on developing skills to solve any type of problem.

More Practice

Practice makes you perfect — there's no other shortcut to becoming a successful programmer. Every programmer has to go through 4 stages: Learn → Practice → Learn from mistakes → Practice again. Treat your mistakes as gold dust — that's what makes you an expert.