Issue 16

Today’s Issue: Your first side project…what should you build, why should you build it, and how?

Welcome to #16.

Starting your first side project is an exciting milestone as a developer. It’s not just a way to practice your skills—it’s also a chance to create something meaningful, showcase your abilities, and even land that dream job. But where do you start? Let’s break it down.

What is a Side Project?

It’s a self-initiated, independent project that you work on outside your main job, coursework, or bootcamp. Unlike tutorials, which guide you step-by-step, a side project will challenge you to solve problems on your own, from idea to execution.

It could be:

• A personal tool that solves a problem for you.

• A clone of an app you like to use, like Instagram or X.

• A creative experiment like a game or something interactive.

The best side project is one that excites you and aligns with your goals as a developer.

Why Build a Side Project?

The best way to learn is by doing. Watching tutorials is helpful, but to truly grasp the information, you need to actually be using it. Also, building side projects is a great way to build up your portfolio so potential employers will be more interested in hiring you. Plus you’ll gain confidence in your ability and become a better developer in the process.

How to Get Started

1. Choose an Idea You’re Excited About

   • Come up with a few ideas and then narrow it down to the one that excites you the most

2. Plan Before You Code

   • List out any features you’d like to have

   • Choose a tech stack that aligns with the type of job you’re looking to land

   • Create a high-level wireframe of what you’d like the project to look like

3. Build, Break, and Learn

   • Start building and have fun along the way. Expect bugs and challenges to come up, that’s part of the process so don’t get discouraged.

4. Deploy and Share

   • Once your project is working, deploy it online so others can see what you’ve built! Also, don’t forget to add it to your portfolio!

Your first few side projects don’t need to be perfect (they probably won’t be). Have fun, grow as a developer, and learn something new along the way.

If you’re currently working on a side project, I’d love to hear about it! Feel free to reply to this and share what you’re working on!

Till Next Time

I’ll be writing a lot of Python at work soon, so for the remainder of the year, I’ll be dedicating some time to brushing up on my Python skills. If anyone is looking to learn Python or wants some helpful resources, feel free to reach out! I’ll be happy to share what’s working for me.

Enjoy the long weekend ahead and have a happy Thanksgiving!