5 Tips for Sticking to Your Coding Study Goals

Best practices for web developers to set study habits that work.

You completed the first step; you made the decision to learn something new and want to make a change.

Now the second step in the right direction can feel a lot more daunting.

Actually following through with your goal to either learn Python or even to switch careers into tech this year can seem near to impossible if you don’t have a plan.

To get out of your own way, make and commit to study goals that will set you up for the best results possible.

1. Start with specific, achievable goals.

Instead of setting a vague goal like "I want to get better at coding," set specific, achievable goals such as, "I will complete one coding project per week" or "I will spend at least two hours per day studying."

Having specific SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Bound) will help you stay focused and motivated.

After setting a realistic study goal, create a study schedule and stick to it.

2. Set aside specific days and times each week to study, and stick to the same schedule.

Having a consistent study schedule will help you stay on track and make progress.

Completing a coding bootcamp like Nucamp can help give you the structure many need but fail to implement on their own.

During Nucamp coding bootcamps students study at their own pace during the week (roughly 2-4 hours a day is expected) and then join their classmates for a videoconference workshop each weekend led by their instructor.

3. Take breaks and switch things up.

Make sure to take frequent breaks away from your computer to keep your mind and eyes fresh and to do different types of study activities, such as reading or working on a coding project.

Application of what you learn is just as, if not more, important to internalize new concepts.

Plus, working on coding projects is a great way to show yourself and future employers your progress along the way!

4. You will inevitably get stuck with a concept along the way; Get help when you need it.

Don't be afraid to ask for help if you get stuck or don't understand something.

There are plenty of resources available, such as forums, online communities, and tutors, that can help you get back on track.

Besides your specific classmates and your instructor, joining Nucamp’s coding bootcamps give you access to a Discord community of hundreds of active alumni, current students, and instructors to reach out to for help.

5. Stay patient, motivated and focused.

It's natural to get frustrated when learning something new, but it's important to stay positive and keep things in perspective.

Remember that progress takes time, and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small they may seem.

By following this formula, you can stay on track and make progress toward crushing your coding study goals.

If you have tried any version of these steps on your own in the past without luck, consider registering for a Nucamp coding bootcamp for the structure and guidance to stick to and complete your coding study goals this year.