- PPF Points
- 2,888
When I first started learning to code, I was hesitant to ask for feedback on my work. I worried that my code wasn’t “good enough” or that someone would think I wasn’t smart. But over time, I realized that asking for feedback was one of the best things I could do to improve as a programmer.
When I submitted a small project to a beginner's coding forum, it was one of the first times I sought feedback. It was a simple HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to-do list application. I had put together what I believed to be a functional app by following tutorials. After sharing it, I got insightful feedback on how to improve the readability of my code and streamline some of my functions. I had never learned how to use event delegation effectively until someone showed me how to do it. It opened my eyes to the fact that listening to others could teach me a lot more.
I've since developed the practice of routinely seeking feedback, whether I'm working on a team project, a personal project, or an assignment for school. Usually, I get in touch with mentors, online communities, or other developers. Sometimes the criticism is straightforward, such as making the indentation better or giving the variables a clearer name. Sometimes it's more involved, such as when a loop is optimized or a better algorithm is used. In any case, I always gain something worthwhile.
I've also improved my communication skills by asking for feedback. I've improved my ability to communicate my code and thought process, which is particularly helpful in team settings or during job interviews. Hearing that something you wrote could be better isn't always easy, but as soon as I stopped taking it personally, I began to develop much more quickly.
The majority of seasoned developers, in my experience, are willing to assist if you demonstrate that you've tried and are willing to learn. I now ask myself, "Is there someone who could look at this and give me tips?" after finishing a project or even a challenging piece of code. That tiny action has had a significant impact on my development as a programmer.
So yes, I do ask for feedback—and I think every coder should. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about improving with every line you write.
When I submitted a small project to a beginner's coding forum, it was one of the first times I sought feedback. It was a simple HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to-do list application. I had put together what I believed to be a functional app by following tutorials. After sharing it, I got insightful feedback on how to improve the readability of my code and streamline some of my functions. I had never learned how to use event delegation effectively until someone showed me how to do it. It opened my eyes to the fact that listening to others could teach me a lot more.
I've since developed the practice of routinely seeking feedback, whether I'm working on a team project, a personal project, or an assignment for school. Usually, I get in touch with mentors, online communities, or other developers. Sometimes the criticism is straightforward, such as making the indentation better or giving the variables a clearer name. Sometimes it's more involved, such as when a loop is optimized or a better algorithm is used. In any case, I always gain something worthwhile.
I've also improved my communication skills by asking for feedback. I've improved my ability to communicate my code and thought process, which is particularly helpful in team settings or during job interviews. Hearing that something you wrote could be better isn't always easy, but as soon as I stopped taking it personally, I began to develop much more quickly.
The majority of seasoned developers, in my experience, are willing to assist if you demonstrate that you've tried and are willing to learn. I now ask myself, "Is there someone who could look at this and give me tips?" after finishing a project or even a challenging piece of code. That tiny action has had a significant impact on my development as a programmer.
So yes, I do ask for feedback—and I think every coder should. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about improving with every line you write.
