How to learn Java from scratch: tips for beginners
Published: 2021-03-26 16:43:37

There are many reasons to learn Java (on your own or by enrolling in a Java course), whether you are a newbie in programming or a specialist in another language. The most obvious of these are related to the fact that Java is a universal and reliable language. It works on almost any device, from smart irons and phones to Tesla cars and supercomputers. Java has excellent backward compatibility, which means that it is relatively easy to maintain old Java code, as well as to migrate to new versions of the language.

This is why Java is so popular. Server applications, systems for working with big data, Android programs, web and desktop applications are written in Java. Based on this, finding a job as a Java programmer is much easier than for a specialist in other languages.

![image](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/xu0l0r00ystlodi8w0ro.png) 

<strong>Top 5 tips for learning Java without excruciating pain:</strong>

<h2>1. Strike the right balance between theory and practice</h2>

Theoretical knowledge, of course, is needed. They help to understand the internal processes, explain why everything happens in the program exactly the way it is and not otherwise. However, you need to consume theory in moderation if it comes to such a practical area as programming. Especially at first.

<h2>2. Create a study schedule and set clear goals</h2>

Jumps from one to the other rarely bring good results in school. It is much more effective to immerse yourself in the language once and not be distracted by others. Imagine learning Spanish and Italian at the same time. You will most likely get confused and end up using some kind of hybrid.

<h2>3. Try a playful learning format to learn successfully while staying motivated.</h2>

Let's face it, there aren't very many successful self-taught people in any industry. Perhaps one in a hundred will be found. The low percentage is not explained by someone's stupidity or carelessness. Most often, quite reasonable people, stumbling over failure, lose motivation, because they are not able to assess their real progress. And sometimes they simply do not understand that their efforts were not enough to overcome this or that difficulty.

![image](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/d9e9gtz4gl1100ermek8.png) 

<h2>4. Chat with fellow students and Java programmers. Feel free to ask questions!</h2>

For a better understanding of how the study is going, people consciously or subconsciously compare themselves with others. Plus, connecting with those who are teaching the same thing as you is extremely rewarding.

<h2>5. Create your own portfolio</h2>

One of the first tips for a novice developer who has already learned the basics of the language is “create your own project and let others see your work”. This is great advice. Think about your project. It doesn't have to be something big, but something that will gauge your level of Java proficiency. For example, a small game or time management app.

<strong>Conclusion</strong>

You are now armed with strategies and techniques to help you learn Java properly. The main keys to learning Java are practice, the sequence of steps, but the most positive thing is that nothing prevents you from making your journey exciting!