10 Habits make you a bad programmer

Ritish Madan
7 min readJun 9, 2023

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In the thrilling programming world, every line of code weaves a story of innovation and problem-solving. However, even the most skilled coders can sometimes fall into the trap of detrimental habits.

This article is your companion on becoming a more effective programmer. It highlights common pitfalls and provides practical strategies to overcome them.

Whether you’re a student, a researcher, or a seasoned coder, this playbook is your ticket to breaking free from bad habits and stepping into your full potential as a programmer.

Let’s dive in!

Segment I: The Art of Coding and the Pitfalls of Overconfidence

Programming is a fascinating journey, a dance between logic and creativity. But, dear reader, have you ever wondered if some of your habits are holding you back?

Let’s dive into the first two habits that might sabotage your coding prowess.

#1: Master of All, Ace of None

Imagine trying to learn every language spoken on Earth. Daunting, isn’t it? The same applies to programming languages. It’s tempting to dip your toes into every language out there, but the result?

You might be a jack of all trades, master of none. Concentrate on one language, become fluent, and consider adding another to your repertoire. Keep in mind depth often trumps breadth when it comes to coding.

There are countless languages in the vast programming universe, each with unique syntax and charm. It’s like being in a candy store, and you want to taste everything.

It’s like being a tourist who visits many countries but never stays long enough to understand the local culture. So, focus on one language, immerse yourself in it, understand its nuances, and become a master.

#2: The Overworking Overlord

Picture this: It’s 2 am. Your eyes are bloodshot, your fingers are flying over the keyboard, and you’ve forgotten what sunlight looks like. Sound familiar?

Overworking is a common pitfall for programmers. It’s like overeating chocolate — it feels good now, but the aftermath is a productivity crash.

Balance is essential, my friend.

Work smarter, not harder.

In the world of coding, it’s easy to lose track of time. The thrill of solving problems and the joy of seeing your code come to life can make you forget everything else.

But beware, dear reader, for this path leads to the dark side — the realm of burnout. Overworking can make you feel like a hamster on a wheel, always running but never reaching your destination. So, take breaks, maintain a healthy work-life balance, and remember, your health is your true wealth.

Segment II: The Lone Wolf Syndrome and the Copycat Conundrum

Coding can be a solitary endeavour, but it doesn’t have to be. Let’s explore the dangers of going solo and the perils of plagiarism.

#3: The Lone Wolf

Coding isn’t a hermit’s job. Sure, you can lock yourself in a room to crack a complex problem, but collaboration is the heart of innovation. Reach out, share ideas, and learn from your peers.

After all, two heads are better than one, right?

As programmers, we often find ourselves lost in the world of code, oblivious to the world outside. It’s easy to become a lone wolf, isolated from the pack. But remember, collaboration is the lifeblood of innovation. It brings fresh perspectives and new ideas and can turn a good project into a great one.

Reach out to your fellow coders, share your ideas, and create magic together.

#4: The Copycat

Ah, the temptation to copy and paste someone else’s code. It’s like a siren’s call, but beware, dear reader, for it’s a dangerous path. Plagiarism isn’t just unethical; it can land you in legal hot water. Be inspired, but always create original work.

Don’t forget imitation might be the sincerest form of flattery, but in coding, it’s a cardinal sin.

In the vast ocean of code available on the internet, it’s tempting to take a shortcut, to copy and paste someone else’s code. But keep in mind plagiarism is not just unethical; it’s illegal. It’s like stealing someone else’s painting and passing it off as your own.

Be inspired by others’ work and learn from it, but always create your masterpiece.

Segment III: The Race Against Time and the Emotional Entanglement

Coding is a marathon, not a sprint. Let’s discuss the pitfalls of rushing and the hazards of letting emotions rule your coding.

#5: The Deadline Daredevil

We’ve all been there — the deadline is looming, and the panic sets in. But rushing your work can lead to sloppy code and more bugs than a summer picnic.

Plan your time wisely, communicate with your clients, and remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day.

In the fast-paced world of coding, deadlines are always looming. It’s like a ticking time bomb, adding pressure and stress. But rushing your work can lead to mistakes, bugs, and subpar code. It’s like building a house quickly without taking the time to lay a strong foundation.

Plan your time wisely, communicate with your clients, and remember quality always trumps quantity.

#6: The Emotional Coder

Coding is a logical process, but we’re human, and emotions can sneak in. However, letting emotions dictate your coding decisions can lead to hasty, ill-thought-out solutions. Keep your heart out of your code, and let your logical mind take the reins.

Always remember passion is great, but when it comes to coding, cool-headed logic rules the day.

As humans, we’re emotional beings. We love, we hate, we feel joy and sorrow. But when coding, emotions cloud our judgment, leading to hasty decisions and flawed code. It’s like letting your heart navigate while driving — it might lead you astray.

Keep your emotions in check, let your logical mind guide you, and remember that logic is king in the realm of coding.

Segment IV: The Procrastination Pitfall and the Premature Surrender

Procrastination and giving up too soon are two more habits that can derail your coding journey. Let’s delve into these habits and how to avoid them.

#7: The Procrastination Pitfall

“Tomorrow,” the sweet siren song of procrastination. But in the fast-paced world of technology, tomorrow might be too late. Postponing projects can lead to outdated solutions and frustrated clients. So, dear reader, seize the day and remember the best time to start coding was yesterday.

The second best time? Now!

Procrastination is a sweet poison. It lures you with the promise of tomorrow, but in the world of coding, tomorrow might be too late. It’s like waiting for the perfect moment to start a journey, only to realise the moment has passed.

Seize the day, start now, and remember, the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.

#8: The Premature Surrender

Coding can be strict, and sometimes, it’s tempting to throw in the towel. But remember, every great coder has faced challenges and overcome them. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.

After all, isn’t it better to seek help and learn than to give up and regret?

Coding can be a challenging mountain to climb. The steep learning curve, complex problems, and bugs that refuse to be squashed make it easy to feel overwhelmed and give up. But remember, every great coder has faced challenges and overcome them. It’s like learning to ride a bike — you fall, get up, and try again.

Feel free to seek assistance when needed, keep trying, and remember failure is a stepping stone to success.

Segment V: The Unfamiliar Code Conundrum and the Journey to Becoming a Better Programmer

Finally, let’s discuss the dangers of using unfamiliar code and how to become a better programmer.

#9: The Unfamiliar Code Conundrum

Using code you don’t understand is like trying to read a book in a language you don’t speak. It’s confusing, frustrating, and prone to errors. Take the time to understand the code before using it.

Take note comprehension is the key to effective coding.

Using unfamiliar code is like walking in a dark forest without a map. It’s confusing, it’s scary, and it’s easy to get lost. But understanding the code, knowing how and why it works, is like having a torch in the dark forest. It illuminates your path, guides you, and leads you to your destination.

Allocate sufficient time to comprehend the intricacies of the code, learn its inner workings, and remember knowledge is power.

#10: The Journey to Becoming a Better Programmer

Becoming a better programmer isn’t about being perfect; it’s about continuous learning and improvement. Avoid these bad habits, seek advice, create original work, and, most importantly, keep your passion for coding alive.

Bear in mind every great coder started where you are now. So, keep coding, keep learning, and who knows?

You might just become the next coding superstar!

Conclusion

In the dynamic world of coding, the journey to mastery is paved with continuous learning and the shedding of unproductive habits. From the pitfalls of trying to master all languages at once to the dangers of overworking, we’ve explored ten habits that can hinder your progress as a programmer.

Retaining in your memory collaboration is vital; originality is your ticket to creating impactful code. Avoid rushing your work, keep emotions at bay, and never hesitate to seek help. Procrastination and giving up too soon are not your friends, and understanding your code is non-negotiable.

As you navigate your coding journey, keep these insights in mind. With the proper habits and a commitment to continuous improvement, you’re on your way to becoming a better programmer.

Best of luck!

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Ritish Madan
Ritish Madan

Written by Ritish Madan

A software engineer who breaks down larger problems into chunks and enjoys peaceful mountains to escape the chaos of the workweek. and loves to write. Cheers!!!

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