Debunking Common Programming Myths and Misconceptions
Tags: webdev, beginners, programming, coding
Published: 2023-06-25 16:50:46


![Programming myths and misconceptions](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/wglr2zz0x9wuzsr8b3r6.png)
Programming, often hailed as the language of the future, is a field surrounded by many myths and misconceptions, which can be misleading, most especially to aspiring programmers, creating a misconception of what it takes to get started and be successful in the industry.

From popular TV series like _Silicon valley_ and _Mr Robot_ to social media forums and online forums, there have been very a strong portrayal of this misconceptions. One popular example is that all programmers fit to this stereotype: Genius, socially awkward and introverted as portrayed in _Mr Robot_. In the TV series, Elliot's character embodies this stereotype, as he is portrayed as a brilliant but socially awkward hacker who struggles  with interpersonal relationships. 
![meme](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/2ja0wnto097bze7no5ux.png)
This is also seen in _Silicon Valley_, as the main character, Richard Hendricks is a badass programmer but lacks good communication skill, He  struggles with selling his ideas to others. One scene even shows him blabbering utter nonsense in front of his employees as he attempts to introduce
himself. Well, He ends up puking.

These examples, among several others has led a lot of people to believe these as being the truth. 
This is why we here today - to unravel these myths and shed light on the realities of the programming landscape.  we will uncover the truth behind these misconceptions and present a more accurate portrayal of the programming profession. 

By debunking these myths, we aim to empower individuals to approach programming with a balanced perspective,  understand the challenges they may encounter, and make informed decisions about their learning and career paths, So, let's dive.

![meme](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/l48ek6srn28ou7gr8lsz.gif)


## Myth 1: Programming is only for the Genius.

Many aspiring programmers have let themselves believe that programming is exclusively reserved  for extraordinarily intelligent individuals. However, I'm here to debunk this myth once and for all: programming is not solely for geniuses. In fact, it's far from it. Hell, I'm kinda dumb and i can code. No offense, Hussaini.

![meme](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/an0i40hum0tk0i7w7l78.gif)
Here's the truth: learning how to code requires commitment, perseverance, and a sh*t ton of practice. If you possess basic reading and writing skills, you already have a solid foundation to start learning how to code. Most popular programming languages used today are considered high-level languages, meaning their syntax resembles English (except with those annoying semicolons and braces). This makes it more accessible and easier to understand for beginners.


## Myth 2: Programmers can solve any technical problem instantly; they don't need to refer to documentation or search for solutions.

This is yet another popular myth and for a while, i too, believed this. I did, so well that i thought i was a fraud for actually looking at documentations or asking CHATGPT for help when i got stuck whilst solving a programming problem.
 

![meme](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/s7x9zqf8sxfwpt2o5jtv.png)
I always believed being a good programmer meant sitting right in front of the PC and smashing the keyboard non-stop, Having it all figured out and all...

But is this true?

Nah. Programming is a vast and complex field, and no programmer, no matter how experienced, can have all the solutions memorized.  Programming languages and frameworks are continually evolving, and new challenges and scenarios arise regularly. Programmers often rely on documentation, references, and online resources to assist them in solving problems. 


## Myth 3: You need a computer science degree to become a successful programmer.

The success of [Elon Musk](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elon_Musk) and many other self-taught programmers serves as a testament to the fact that formal education is not the only determining factor for success in the field. Self-taught 
programmers often possess a unique drive, passion, and determination to learn and excel in programming.

At age of 12, [Elon musk](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elon_Musk) invented a video game, Blaster, and later sold it to a computer magazine company that published the code’s printed copy. He later founded  Zip2, which was acquired by a company called Compaq for $207 million.

So if you are a self-taught programmer like Elon Musk and me, or intend to become one, don’t let the absence of a formal education discourage you. Pursue your dream  and keep the fire burning. Forgive me if I sound over-dramatic.


## Myth 4: Programming is only for the young.

A lot of people believe that programming is reserved only for the young, and older people like my Grandma who wants to learn how to code have missed the opportunity to venture into the field. Well, fortunately for my Grandma and the older people out there, this is only a misconception.

![meme](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/t82vxu3671hek3k9zbf5.gif)
Programming in fact, has no age barrier,  and individuals of all ages can successfully learn to code and pursue a career in the field.

Mario Burgos, on this [Quora question](https://www.quora.com/Is-30-years-old-too-old-to-learn-computer-programming), shares his motivating experience about how he started his coding career at the age of 37 and years later, he became the director of software development in one of the biggest Insurance Companies.


## Myth 5: All programmers earn six-figure salaries; it's a guaranteed path to financial success.

Sorry to burst your bubbles but Yeah its true, not all programmers earn six-figures salaries and it is not a guaranteed path to success. 

As pretty as it seem to imagine yourself being landing your first job and earning six-figure earner after 3 years of learning how to code, it doesn’t always happen.

Becoming successful or even earning as  programmer, like in any other profession, depends on various factors such as experience, expertise, location, industry, job demand, and economic conditions.

This is why it is important to approach programming as a career choice based on passion and interest rather than solely for the pursuit of financial gain.


## Myth 6: Language X is better than language Y

![meme](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/11ne9zsxnkht51yx6acn.png)
I’ve seen a lot of programmers arguing about which programming language is better. But in reality, this is silly. And there should be no comparison between two programming languages. Its like comparing a hammer to a spanner. Using this tools other than for purposes they are meant for will only lead to inefficiency and frustration, Since a hammer cannot be used to loosen a bolt and a spanner cannot be used to punch a nail into wood.

To make informed decision before picking a programming language it is important that you clearly define your objectives. For web development, Javascript emerges as the best option due to it versatility and browser compatibility.

On the other hand, for app development, java, react native, Kotlin or flutter are the best options as they have tons of libraries tailored for mobile applications.


## Wrapping things up.

![Gif](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/nqxixpasi8f7uu6a3lc9.gif)
That’s it folks, we’ve discussed quite a lot today. These are some of the myths and misconceptions out there about programming. Hopefully you can now see programming from a clearer perspective and are able to accurately separate them from the truth and dispel unrealistic expectations.

My name is **Hussaini Ahmed**, I am a **front end developer**. I also write about front end languages, frameworks and latest technologies. I’d loved to hear your thought on this article. Feel free to drop a comment below or reach out to me via:

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