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What step do you need to take to become a Software Developer?
What organizations do most software developers go through when first starting out and why?
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5 answers
Teklemuz Ayenew Tesfay
Electrical Engineer, Software Developer, and Career Mentor
517
Answers
Ethiopia
Updated
Teklemuz Ayenew’s Answer
To become a software developer, you should start by building a strong foundation in computer science concepts, data structures and algorithms, and programming languages such as C/C++, Python, Java, and SQL. It is also important to become familiar with software development tools, version control systems like Git, databases, and development frameworks, while continuously developing problem-solving skills. Practice problem-solving regularly on platforms such as HackerRank, LeetCode, Exercism, W3Schools, and GeeksforGeeks to strengthen your coding and analytical abilities. Gain practical experience through personal projects, volunteering, internships, or contributing to open-source projects, and build, showcase, and document your work on GitHub to demonstrate your skills to potential employers. Continuously improve your knowledge through online courses, coding bootcamps, and staying updated with the latest technologies. Join online communities and virtual platforms like Forage, participate in hackathons, tech conferences, and competitions, and network with professionals through LinkedIn, GitHub, and Stack Exchange to gain mentorship and access job opportunities.
When first starting out, most software developers typically join organizations that provide structured learning and hands-on experience. Common options include tech companies such as Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Facebook (Meta), and Apple, as well as large corporations with established internship and graduate programs like IBM, Intel, Oracle, and Accenture. Open-source communities and professional networks like GitHub, Stack Overflow, and Dev.to are also common first steps, as they allow developers to collaborate, showcase their work, and build a portfolio. Joining professional organizations such as the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM), IEEE Computer Society, and the Python Software Foundation can further enhance learning and networking opportunities. By building a solid foundation through courses, applying what you learn in projects and internships, gaining practical experience, networking effectively, and joining associations and organizations, you can become a highly competitive and successful software developer.
When first starting out, most software developers typically join organizations that provide structured learning and hands-on experience. Common options include tech companies such as Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Facebook (Meta), and Apple, as well as large corporations with established internship and graduate programs like IBM, Intel, Oracle, and Accenture. Open-source communities and professional networks like GitHub, Stack Overflow, and Dev.to are also common first steps, as they allow developers to collaborate, showcase their work, and build a portfolio. Joining professional organizations such as the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM), IEEE Computer Society, and the Python Software Foundation can further enhance learning and networking opportunities. By building a solid foundation through courses, applying what you learn in projects and internships, gaining practical experience, networking effectively, and joining associations and organizations, you can become a highly competitive and successful software developer.
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. I am glad to know that you would like to become a software developer.
Below are my suggestions :
1. Attend the information sessions hosts by Computer Science department hosts by colleges and understand the entry criteria. Work hard on your academic to meet the criteria
2. Learn programming languages. Start learning simple programming languages, e.g. Python, etc. There are plenty of resources on language structure and syntax online.
3. Start using the languages doing small projects, e.g. control robotic arm, toy car, etc.
4. After entering the colleges, find out what types development you have interest, e.g. Web, Apps, ERP, AI, System, etc.
5. Explore any intern opportunities on the areas you have interest.
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions :
1. Attend the information sessions hosts by Computer Science department hosts by colleges and understand the entry criteria. Work hard on your academic to meet the criteria
2. Learn programming languages. Start learning simple programming languages, e.g. Python, etc. There are plenty of resources on language structure and syntax online.
3. Start using the languages doing small projects, e.g. control robotic arm, toy car, etc.
4. After entering the colleges, find out what types development you have interest, e.g. Web, Apps, ERP, AI, System, etc.
5. Explore any intern opportunities on the areas you have interest.
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Sagarika Priyadarshini
Senior Advisor, Product Management - IT
15
Answers
Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
Updated
Sagarika’s Answer
Hi Rodrikarl,
To become a Software Developer, focus on these key steps:
1. Learn programming fundamentals (e.g., Python, Java, C++).
2. Develop problem-solving and algorithmic skills.
3. Gain hands-on experience through projects or internships.
4. Understand essential tools like Git, IDEs, and databases.
5. Keep learning and adapting to new technologies.
Hope this helps ! All the best :)
To become a Software Developer, focus on these key steps:
1. Learn programming fundamentals (e.g., Python, Java, C++).
2. Develop problem-solving and algorithmic skills.
3. Gain hands-on experience through projects or internships.
4. Understand essential tools like Git, IDEs, and databases.
5. Keep learning and adapting to new technologies.
Hope this helps ! All the best :)
Updated
Rahul’s Answer
To become a software developer, start by learning the basics of programming using one language like Python or Java and focus on understanding how code works, not just syntax. Practice by building small projects such as simple apps, websites or automation scripts. Learn to use tools like Git to track your work and improve collaboration skills. Over time, try internships, school projects or open-source contributions to gain real-world experience. Consistency and problem-solving matter more than knowing many languages early on.
Updated
Christopher’s Answer
To become a software engineer, you can follow different paths. I chose the traditional route by earning a computer science degree and working in the industry. However, I've also helped friends who took other routes.
Focus on building projects. Employers value real experience, and projects are a great way to show your skills. They demonstrate not just your ability to complete tasks but also your capacity to handle complex work, which is highly sought after.
- Start with small projects. Once you're comfortable, aim for larger ones.
- Learn what it takes to develop more complex projects.
- Present your work creatively, especially if you lack internship opportunities.
- Get familiar with Git for version control; it's essential in modern development.
- Use AI tools to learn fundamental concepts.
- Consider a subscription to tools like Claude Code's "Claude learning mode" for guidance.
- Ask basic questions to help you learn effectively.
- It's like having a $20/month personal tutor if used wisely!
Pick a small project, eg: hosting a simple web server via node.js + react
Pick another small project, eg: build a program that reads a USB light sensor attached to your computer
begin to pick larger projects, learn git as you go
Focus on building projects. Employers value real experience, and projects are a great way to show your skills. They demonstrate not just your ability to complete tasks but also your capacity to handle complex work, which is highly sought after.
- Start with small projects. Once you're comfortable, aim for larger ones.
- Learn what it takes to develop more complex projects.
- Present your work creatively, especially if you lack internship opportunities.
- Get familiar with Git for version control; it's essential in modern development.
- Use AI tools to learn fundamental concepts.
- Consider a subscription to tools like Claude Code's "Claude learning mode" for guidance.
- Ask basic questions to help you learn effectively.
- It's like having a $20/month personal tutor if used wisely!
Christopher recommends the following next steps: