learning

I recently attempted a LeetCode Contest but I could not solve a problem. The reason I could not solve the problem is that even though I knew it was similar to a problem I had worked on previously, I did not know how to solve that previous problem.

Algorithmic problems are based on pattern recognition but that pattern recognition isn’t helpful if too much time has passed.

To increase my retention I am using this schedule https://www.quora.com/Whats-the-best-spaced-repetition-schedule. It is the Fibonacci numbers. I am using Gmail’s ability to snooze emails to the future to practice algorithmic problems that are helpful in solving many other problems. I also use Gmail’s labels to keep track of my emails.

Lynda & Team Tree House

Posted on June 1, 2019March 16, 2019 by btunbutr

I started learning from these awesome resources. They were free because of my local library 🙂

With Lynda (now called LinkedIn Learning) I only took one course on Object Oriented Design and it was very clear and concise.

I am impressed with Team Tree House because it is interactive like Codecademy and in depth as well. They also teach how to use documentation and have small projects along the way.

Check out your local library and see if you can get these resources for free 🙂

Top web development boot camp is now free

Posted on January 3, 2019December 6, 2018 by btunbutr

App Academy’s Ruby on Rails and React Boot Camp is now free! Here is a news article and here is the link to the free boot camp

Amazing article on becoming a rock star developer

Posted on December 2, 2018November 4, 2018 by btunbutr

Focus and Deep Work : This great article summarizes Cal Newport’s Deep Work lessons as well as teaches how to apply the Pomodoro Technique to level up one’s skills

My current goal setting system

Posted on August 1, 2018June 9, 2018 by btunbutr

In the past I have tried many ways of keeping track of my goals including writing them down daily, using a mind map, Post It Notes, even trying out index cards and recording them and listening to them while exercising.

I don’t think there is a best system because I think the ideal goal system for each person will have to be built via try, fail, learn, and improve. Also what works today might not be optimal in the future.

My current system is to every day email myself my goals and to dos. To make them stick and to gain more commitment I paraphrase every goal and I also add due dates. I also add easy to dos to feel good and to take steps towards my goals.

I think the paraphrasing is beneficial to me because if I just read the goals I don’t really have to think about them, but if I try to force myself to write them by hand every day that would be too much work and I would quit after a few days. I feel like paraphrasing is a nice balance between commitment, work, and usefulness 🙂

Design Patterns Resources

Posted on June 3, 2018April 7, 2018 by btunbutr

Here are a few links that have helped me gain exposure to design patterns:

I recently started learning from kudvenkat and he is a great teacher who provides clear, simple, and detailed explanations and examples. I am sure his series Design Patterns Videos are great as well.

Books that Junior Developers should read

How I Became a Software Engineer Without Experience or College Degree

How to Program

Job search mega post

An amazing and free path to learn web development:

How to get your first job:

Preparing for the technical interview:

Review schedule for long term benefits