How to learn programming by someone who knows the basics?

Hi,





Programming is my profession and I know the basics of programming. Yet I'am not able to convert my knowledge into successful programs or I feel stressed to learn new things in programming. so things that run on my mind are...how to practice programming, how to learn from mistakes, how to learn new things that keeps coming every day, how to experiment, how to remember syntax etc. I need something like a guideline. I hope someone can clarify me on this. Thanks.

How to learn programming by someone who knows the basics?
It just takes practice. Single out things you don't understand, like some kind of design pattern or data structure, and write simple isolated apps to test it. I find that I learn best not by doing things right, but by trying and making mistakes I can understand what not to do, and eventually avoid making mistakes altogether with things I am familiar with.
Reply:First off, you need to specialize in a type of programming, programming is too broad to try and be an expert in everything.. Step one, specialize in a type of programming .





If you're planning on doing application level programming (writing programs for windows/ mac /linux) while you still can use C/C++ its much easier and you'll be more productive learning something like Visual Basic .NET, or Java or some other application programming languages.





You need to determine what you want to do and then apply the best programming language.. Below is a general guideline.





C/C++ : Systems Level programming, Operating systems, hardware , API's etc.


.NET /C# : Windows Application programming


JAVA : Middle-ware , corporate programming


PHP, ASP , CFM: Web site, web applications





That should narrow down the focus.. .from there, stay up on the trends in your particular area, work on manageable projects.
Reply:Hire a private tutor to give you guidance.
Reply:You may want to work with experienced programmers. Not just any wanna-be programmer, but those who are already successful at writing programs. By spending time around them, you can absorb their approach to programming.





You may want to start with working on open source projects. Find a large, reputed project with talented developers and spend time around them. Seeing how they think and approach programming can help you as well.
Reply:Depends what kind of programming you want to do. visual basic or c++.





visual basic is way easier than c++ but c++ is used more in video games and stuff like that.





You can find books at a used book store or go online to find books. they are not too expensive.