Which's the better approach to programming?

Question

The internet contains a lot of information on programming. New programmers are usually overwhelmed with the flood of info.

Solving problems with code can follow two approaches.
1. Use the algorithm in your head to write the code from scratch.
2. Surf the web for the necessary algorithm

Which of them is better?
Does the first increase one's ability to think like a programmer?

Answer 1

The first approach is what you have to use,it helps you grow as a programmer. Ask for help when your stuck. Practice makes perfect,the more you do it yourself,the easier it will become.

Answer 2

Googling and copypasteing algorithms may let you write a program more quickly but you won't train your algo muscle.

Writing it yourself without help will take longer but you will get a good workout.