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Java

Matthew Dorber
Matthew Dorber
752 Points
Posted by Matthew Dorber
Matthew Dorber
752 Points

I can solve (most of) the exercises when they come about...doesn't feel like it's sinking in?

Just checking i'm not alone here.

I understand a lot of what the teacher is saying, and i can complete the exercises usually by looking at the workspaces and seeing what we've already done.

But if someone was to say to me now - ok build a scrabble game - I wouldn't have a clue how to piece it all together.

Is this normal? I guess we're still in the early stages so can't be expected to just go off and code alone without help!

Calin Bogdan
Calin Bogdan
14,921 Points

I think all of us have been struggling with this. For example, when I started learning Android I couldn't do a thing without guidance. But I kept following the Beginner Track and after some time I managed to develop something by my own. Just keep learning and eventually, you'll figure it out. Also, keep in mind that following along in the workspaces or an IDE of your choice is very important.

Good luck and happy coding!

Matthew Dorber
Matthew Dorber
752 Points
Matthew Dorber
Matthew Dorber
752 Points

Thanks Calin!

I do my best to keep up with the workspaces, most of it makes sense but I do get the occasional 'hang on, why are we doing that?' or 'I've no idea why I just did that'!

1 Answer

Dane Parchment
MOD
Dane Parchment
Treehouse Moderator 11,075 Points
Dane Parchment
Dane Parchment
Treehouse Moderator 11,075 Points

Of course this is normal, programming requires very abstract thinking.

As a beginner you really shouldn't be focused on trying to write applications just yet, instead you need to focus on understanding the core programming concepts. Remember learning programming is like learning a new language, and when you learn a new language you don't go from learning what verbs are, to writing a full length novel right? The same concept applies to programming as well.

Simply spend your time understanding programming concepts until you understand them:

  • Variables
  • Loops
  • Functions
  • Object Oriented Programming
  • Functional Programming
  • etc.

Learn the logic behind programming before deep-diving into bigger applications. Once you understand the basics behind programming, you will be able to logically figure out how to setup and create applications.

So don't worry you are doing fine! Just keep watching the videos until you understand the concept you are learning. I think you know you will be fine if you are able to implement a workspace exercise without having to refer to the video!