Friday, June 11, 2010

Think out of the Box


Just a short thought on solving hard coding problems. We all know that when it comes to writing code, there are usually several ways you can do something. If the way you're doing something seems really difficult, try stepping back and attacking it from a different angle.

We're not talking about code snippets here. If you're searching for specific code, you can probably find a sample out there. But, as Dex from Starwars would tell you, there's a difference between knowledge and wisdom. Applying the knowledge is where the money is! Do some research and see how people are solving similar problems. And, carry some paper with you so you can doodle designs on the go.

Most importantly, don't be afraid of failure. Just because you think it will work doesn't mean that it will, but it brings you one step closer to fully understanding the problem. Prototyping is your friend.

Happy Coding!
Jason

1 comment:

  1. When coding something new and unknown, I typically drop in a comment for the unknown...

    // Brilliant code goes here..

    By the time I get around to writing that brilliant code, it's probably been baked down to about 2 lines of simple code. I have no idea why that is. Maybe its that the supporting code simplifies the brilliant code, or that the brilliant code is simplified by the munch time you have writing the supporting code.

    Either way, it probably subscribes to my "bounce your mind off the wall coding theory."

    Get your mind off the problem and the code will come to you naturally. Think not of of the problem, let the force flow through you.

    Actually, quite serioursly, I probably do my best coding driving, when my mind is wandering. Just don't drive in front of me.

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