How to actually code stuff?

Question

I've been working on my c++ course for a while and even though it's easy to advance through the questions, I find it really difficult to actually apply my knowledge. I honestly started to learn coding for university(I'll go for Physics)/programming video games. I have difficulties imagining exactly how to tell my computer to do /this/, what functions I should use, how to obtain the results I need... It all feels a bit too abstract maybe? I want to practice more (I feel it's the only way to improve) but how?

Answer 1

I think you should start with simple projects,
projects that helps you understand the simple concepts first.
For example the calculator is many times sugested as a starting project
because it will teach us the basic concepts of a language as you try to do it:
- using the arithmetic operators,
- getting user input
- formating output
- ...

Answer 2

i understand you for the first time when i start coding i was also so confused.

but i solve it by practicing and debugging.

i learn extras from ebook .

now everything has changed.

Answer 3

thank you both for answering! practice really is the only way huh. I'll keep going then and do my best. I'll try the calculator, which is a really nice idea! Starting small seems a good advice. I hope I'll get used to coding soon enough! thanks again

Answer 4

If it all feels a bit too abstract, make it concrete! try writing a program that will do a calculation you're familiar with (say ballistic motion, for instance?) Just try to generalize the problem solving you already know how to do. Then you can cross check the results with hand calculations to make sure it's behaving properly.

I think something like that will help you see the applications a bit more clearly. I heartily endorse learning how to program in concert with physics coursework, those areas overlap quite a bit.

I first learned to program for a summer research opportunity, and it had stood me in good stead over the years.

Answer 5

Good luck! If you get stuck, come back and ask for more help, everyone's hit the "Oh dear, how will I pull this off?" moment.

Answer 6

@Jim: Oh my! I didn't think about that! I'm definitely trying that one, I could reaaaally use a calculator for ballistic motion ahaha I'm really curious to try it out now. I wonder how to go for it mhh... But you're right, crossing coding and physics does seem fun and wow, much less abstract. Thank you!!

Answer 7

Thank you so much! And yeah I'll definitely do that ahah This community has been amazing so far!!
(I'll just.. let these weeks pass -I'm so full of tests at school- and then I'll be right here trying to see how far I can go with coding :D)