Every programmer should know these 12 things

The question "what should a developer know?" incredibly popular. And we've put together a dozen of the best answers for you. Understanding these issues will help you both in your studies and at work. Every programmer should know these 12 things.

Anyone who is just starting to write code probably wonders many times about what level of knowledge he needs to achieve. It is not so difficult to decide on the basic set, and this selection will help you with this. It does not depend on the programming language, environment or operating system.

Every programmer should know (or be able to):

1. The meaning of general concepts. For example, design templates, software architecture, testing, refactoring, stack, etc.
2. OOP principles.
3. At least one programming language at a good level. At the same time nothing supernatural is required: just the ability to create variables, methods. Once you learn this, further learning will go very quickly.
4. How to correctly read the code of other programmers.
5. What you need to constantly learn. But consume the best possible information. The source does not play a big role: the Internet, textbooks, books, reference books - anything.
6. VCS - version control systems. Namely, the basics that are specific to each.
7. Situations in which you can and even should seek help, and when it should not be done.
8. How to understand which problem to solve and which to reject. Quite often, programmers spend their time in vain, struggling with various little things.
9. Do not be selfish and admit your own mistakes without taking comments and criticism at your own expense.
10. Think like a user. Although you are a programmer, do not forget: your programs are used by ordinary people, not just technicians, so you should strive to create a useful, understandable and truly convenient product for them.
11. Have a good rest. Otherwise there will be no productive work. At the very least, take breaks from work, take time for your favorite hobby, and be sure to get some sleep.
12. Rules of teamwork. Almost half of the success of a programmer's career depends on the ability to interact with people.

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Of course, this list is just a short set of knowledge and skills that you need to gain. The main thing is not to be afraid of the unknown, do not give in to difficulties and do not stop. Remember that any IT specialist is simply obliged to constantly develop and follow the latest developments in the industry. So actively improve and get used to the fact that you will always have to do it.