Code it

Everyone can learn how to code. Computer science theories will teach you how to program

 

you will get the following benefits if you learn computer science fundamentals before programming.

Theories motivate you to write highly optimized code.

Performance is still a crucial factor in software development regardless of modern hardware. if we are working close to the hardware or our product is being used by millions of end-users — we still need to write highly optimized code for modern computers. If we need to write optimized code, we need to use the right data structures, fast algorithms, and optimized memory models. This knowledge comes from computer science theories such as data structures, asymptotic analysis of algorithms, and CPU architecture.

 

Theories explain the coder vs. programmer role.

According to the majority’s opinion, the meaning of the word coding literally gives the same meaning as the word programming. Let me explain a hidden fact. Coding is not programming — coders and programmers don’t do the same thing. A coder can write codes in a high-level programming language for a compiler or an interpreter. You don’t need to understand how a computer works or any of its internals to write code. On the other hand, a programmer also writes code but understands the internals. A programmer can build fully functional software products by minimizing errors. In other words, coding is a subset of the programming field.

 

Theories will help you find your expertise.

In the software industry, there are two choices: We can either become a jack of all trades or become a master in a preferred field. In fact, developers can master more than one closely connected field as well. For example, my favorite fields are cloud computing and software architecture. Nowadays, the majority of junior developers start their careers with frontend engineering because of the current trend. After several years, we often hear these kinds of developers say that they don’t work with the things they like.

 

Theories make you a better problem solver.

Software development is not straightforward all the time. Developers often meet problems that need reliable and efficient solutions. A software engineering solution’s triumph depends on the software development team’s skills and expertise. For example, a team can introduce an instant inefficient solution. Meanwhile, another team can solve the same problem with an efficient solution. Computer science theories help developers come up with efficient and smart solutions.

 

Conclusion

Computer science theories are not required to enter the software development field, but those theories give you more perks. The same scenario happens with the programming languages as well. Undoubtedly, developers can start programming with any modern programming language.