Learn How the Web Works Before Paying for Coding Bootcamps
If you don't understand how the Web works, you shouldn't spend money on a coding or programming bootcamp.
You need to do your homework first.
Research the Mechanics of the Internet
Like you, I've searched high and low to find the Holy Grail of design and development boot camps. After a few months, I've found useful programs via FreeCodeCamp, Career Karma, and SoloLearn. Although I've been a user of all three, I experienced a deficit in my learning since starting the programs. It's not because the programs are lacking in their curriculum or messaging.
It was because of my lack of knowledge about the Web itself. I needed to dig deeper into how the Internet, web browsers, protocols, and all other mechanisms worked together.
Helpful Resources
So, before you go dropping 💸 dolla' dolla' bills y'all 💸 on bootcamp programs, make studying the Web and how it works a daily habit.
Listed are a few resources I'd like to share that are helping me along my journey:
☞ How the Internet Works in 5 Minutes
☞ The Internet: IP Addresses & DNS
☞ How the Internet Works for Developers - Pt 1 - Overview & Frontend
☞ How the Internet Works for Developers - Pt 2 - Servers & Scaling
☞ What Most Schools Don't Teach
Don't get me wrong. There are excellent boot camp programs available to those interested in a career change, fine-tuning their skills, or diving deeper into their hobby.
However, I think it's essential for budding programmers and new coders, or those re-entering the field, like myself, to start small. This is especially something to consider if you work a full-time job and have extracurricular activities that make learning in your spare time a challenge.
Next Steps: Efficient Learning
Don't spend thousands of dollars to attend design and dev bootcamps!
Start learning to code with free programs via FreeCodeCamp and SoloLearn. You also need to supplement your learning by reading about coding and programming, and participating in projects through Code.org and Codewars.
I also recommend partnering up with another person or a group of people interested in coding as a hobby or a career path. You can easily interact with communities of code newbies via Career Karma.
If you absolutely must spend money, budget for a reasonably priced program via LinkedIn Learning, formerly known as Lynda.com. This is the program I'm using to sharpen my HTML skills. The instructors are top-notch, and the projects are challenging and engaging. It's worth the cash.
Above all else, research and learn how the Web works before spending your first and last month's rent to attend bootcamps.
