Coding Category Archives - General Assembly Blog | Page 2

Everything You Need to Know About Python: A Beginners Guide to The Best Programming Language to Learn First

By

Do you know which programming language powers NASA, Instagram, YouTube, and Netflix? Meet Python. According to the TIOBE Index, Python passed Java and C in 2022 to become the most popular programming language worldwide. Developers everywhere love Python for its versatility, simple syntax, and extensive frameworks.

It’s also the fastest-growing, according to the Popularity of Programming Languages (PYPL) Index. PYPL found that Python dominated 28% of searches for programming tutorials on Google in 2023, a rise of 23% in the past five years.

In this post, we’ll walk you through the advantages of Python and why it’s a great first programming language for beginners to learn. We’ll also share real-world examples of Python applications and the best ways to learn Python. 

Continue reading

How to Succeed as a software engineer: turning failures into lessons

By

Coding & Programming Errors: How to Stay Calm

Software engineering is one of the most in-demand careers out there. According to Statista, the demand for software engineers has doubled since 2022, and the software market value is estimated to reach $208 billion by 2023.

If you’re an early-career professional looking to find a software engineering job, it’s a great time to enter the industry. Tech talent is needed across all industries and is a thriving career path with many career growth opportunities.

In this blog, we will look at the different career challenges faced by software engineers and provide guidance on how to turn failures into valuable lessons for personal and professional growth, plus many more helpful tips and tricks.  

Continue reading

Why You Should Learn JavaScript: A Beginner’s Guide

By

Article reviewed by: Usman Bashir

GA verified badge  

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

JavaScript is a popular programming language that was born in 1995, and is now core to the modern web. It’s a critical coding skill to learn if you want to get into web development. It’s also a versatile language that can unlock a variety of well-paid job opportunities that are experiencing rapid wage growth. 

According to US News & World Report, software development ranked as the #1 job in 2023. These factors are based on growth potential, salary, employment rate, future job prospects, stress level and work-life balance. The number of software developers is expected to grow to 28.7 million by 2024 globally, a 12.5% increase from 2020. There are many job opportunities for JavaScript developers. One study found the median yearly salary in 2023 was $74,034 USD—up roughly 13% from $65,680 in 2022. 

Salaries can also increase significantly as you gain more experience and advance into more senior developer positions. JavaScript is widely used, so learning it can unlock new opportunities that are remote or freelance.

Continue reading

What Is Coding: Learn the Basics & Launch a Career

By

Article reviewed by: Usman Bashir

GA verified badge  

Estimated reading time: 13 minutes


Steve Jobs famously claimed that everyone should learn how to write code because learning how to code teaches you how to think. Coding is a way to solve real-world problems with existing technology– and it’s a must-have skill for the 21st century.

Curious about how to get into coding? In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about coding from what it is from coding basics to jobs that use coding. 

Continue reading

Afrofuturism & The Future of Tech: 4 Ways to Join the Movement

By

Juneteenth holds significant historical importance as it commemorates the emancipation of enslaved Black people and African Americans in the United States. Juneteenth serves as a reminder of the long-fought struggle for freedom and equality, highlighting the resilience and perseverance of Black individuals throughout history, acknowledging the progress made and the ongoing work needed for racial justice.

Afrofuturism emerges as a remarkable accomplishment within the Black community, as it combines African diasporas, science fiction, and technology to envision inclusive and empowering futures. Afrofuturism celebrates Black imagination, resilience, and creativity, offering a platform to challenge stereotypes and envision a more inclusive and equitable world. By embracing these cultural movements and celebrating Black heritage, society can strive towards a more equitable and inclusive future for all.

Continue reading

Mindfulness Tips for Web Developers

By

Mindfulness for Web Developers

The fast-paced nature of the tech industry is what draws many to it. The pace can allow for accelerated learning, plentiful growth opportunities, and the ability to make a significant impact. The downside is that, if not managed effectively, it can lead to stress and burnout. 

When it comes to a career in software development, it might seem like the best way to learn programming is to dive in and never come up for air. But if you’re under the impression this is how to get better at programming, we’re here to tell you that’s not the case. Pairing your professional development with mindfulness practices is the best way to succeed as a software developer. 

In today’s environment, many teams have been impacted by layoffs, resulting in more work for remaining and new team members, and more pressure to perform. Setting boundaries and implementing mindfulness practices is more essential than ever —not only for your mental health but also for your work quality and productivity.

This article reviews ten tips for mindfulness for developers — to help you get better at programming without neglecting your well-being. 

Continue reading

How Tech Skills Can Land You a Creative Career

By

Traditionally, “highly paid” and “creative career” doesn’t appear in the same sentence, but as technology transforms every part of the creative process, the demand for creative technologists is surging, creating opportunities for artistic-minded tech workers. 

The internet and social media have ushered in a digital creative renaissance, where artists are experimenting with new mediums like augmented reality and virtual reality, and emerging tools like generative AI. Art exhibits have transformed from static gallery shows to immersive experiences created by UX designers. Digital artists increasingly rely on technology as their studio, leveraging software tools like Adobe Creative Cloud, Open AI’s DALL-E, and Procreate to create their next masterpiece. 

Similarly, the music industry is experiencing historic change. Software editing programs and virtual instruments have unlocked new possibilities for creative expression. Technology like streaming services have enabled artists to embrace new ways of marketing and distributing their music. Social media platforms make fan engagement possible in real-time. 

Even already tech-savvy industries like film, television, and video gaming are seeing new opportunities emerge thanks to innovations in 3D graphics, video streaming, and computer performance. The metaverse has unlocked an entirely new world for the entertainment industry to seize, emerging after the pandemic shuttered live events and forced entertainment companies to get creative with digital offerings. 

While technical innovation in creativity is exciting, it also poses legal and ethical concerns around things like an artist’s copyright and control over their work, meaning the field is ripe for innovation in the privacy, security, and compliance spaces. 

Continue reading

What Are the Different Types of Software Engineers?

By

Software engineering is one of the fastest growing fields in the world. Code powers our favorite digital products and services. A hot topic across all industries from consumer retail and healthcare to B2B tech and government. 

Did you know that there are different types of software engineers? As the demand for this field increases, companies need specialized skills to make their digital ideas a reality. The good news? General Assembly’s bootcamps offer a solid foundation for any career in software engineering. The choice is yours, depending on your interests.  

So let’s explore 5 types of software engineers that are hot on the coding job boards right now.

Continue reading

Chart Your Course: Which General Assembly Class Is Right for You?

By

Whether you’re making the leap into a career change, or leveling up your current skill set to land that next promotion, you might be wondering if an online coding bootcamp is right for you. The good news is that General Assembly offers a range of beginner-friendly class formats (from full-time immersives to flexible, part-time schedules), and we have a course that will fit your specific career path and interests. 

Continue reading