Do you think programming makes a person think more logical about other problems? If so, why?

Answer 1

Some replies just say it helps you become better at considering all of the options, but I think the question is more specific than that.

Logic is a means of applying a set of facts to some unknown to reach a conclusion. Logic as a concept can be simply and clearly explained by an if/then statement. For example:

if a=b,
and b=c,
then a=c.

Further, most cause and effect scenarios in programming are based on an if/then type process, thus:

IF logical thinking = examining a set of options on an if/then basis to form a conclusion,
AND learning programming = praticing cause and effect scenarios based on if/then type processes,
THEN we can conclude that learning programming should contribute to improved logical thinking.

I believe this very thing is a factor in why people like @ElonMusk can be successful in such a wide range of disciplines. Learning something new shouldn't be viewed as limited to improving your skill in only that specific thing. Learning a new language, like Latin, could improve your understanding of several languages, medical terminology, and even the classification of living things on our planet. It makes the idea of learning something that much more exciting when you consider the peripheral benefits that could come from it.

I hope each of you can forever retain the SHEER JOY OF LEARNING something new - anything new! By choosing this format and getting this far, you've already shown as much. Congrats, and Good Luck! :)

Answer 2

Absolutely. I found that since I started my career in software development I not only started to think more critically about every decision I make and why, but I also started looking a lot closer at possible outcomes. Every problem you encounter in life can be translated to a sequence of events in code. Part of what makes a developer good at what they do is understanding a thought process and being able to effectively write a hierarchy of events that maps to every situation a user might encounter.

Answer 3

Yes. Because you have to consider every possible exception, error etc,. while programming.

Answer 4

I guess what you say is true to an extent

But its also true other way round.
I mean a relatively logical thinker handle the construct of programming more elegantly.
It is basically a mutual relation between a logical thinker and a programmer.
Programming helps in logical thinking and logical thinking helps in programming.

According to my perspective every technical and philosophical field helps in logical thinking.. And logical thinking also contributes in understanding those domain.

Answer 5

For sure. I agree with everyone else here, and will add this:
In programming. you have to think about all possible outcomes. This leads you to think more consequentially about things, like, "If I did this or this happened, then __ would happen." Then you analyze the most efficient option that gets you to the correct solution the easiest. That is where programming relates.

Answer 6

Definitely. I believe that computer science begins to give one the ability to take algorithmical steps to problem solving.

The geospatial aspects of this heighten, and allow one to have a flow chart of visualized data with higher potential to solve more advanced stimuli/response situations within the surrounding environment over time.

Answer 7

Since programs are developed for real time application, each step is formulated into an algebraic equation thus logic. Continuous coding makes your logic stronger; perceiving the aftermath in any case. The 'any case' can be your 'other problems' too.
Thus programming makes a person more logical about other problems.

Answer 8

I think it builds one's habit of solving problems and surely develop patience in nature.. when you start doing a thing for more than 21 days, it becomes your habit (Army rule) and then naturally it starts depicting in other aspects of life as well

Answer 9

This is a chicken vs egg question. Though programming helps with logical thinking, without other problem solving skills and tools it is null. You can give a person all of the tools and materials needed to make a car, give them the directions to build it, but if that person doesn't have the ability to apply the skills needed to complete the task, it will never happen. In the end, one can influence the other, yet they can stand independent depending on the person.

One thing that can be said is that learning anything is never a bad thing because knowledge is real power.

Answer 10

absolutly!!!

Answer 11

Yes. They think a lot more and utilize what they have for the best possible solution in different situations, which is why I think everyone should know how to code.

Answer 12

I don't think so and let me explain why?
programming is a way more of a weapon we use to deal with problems. Thinking logically is a skill needed to use our weapon to solve the problem.
Remember you can have a good weapon and bad skills, hence bad outcome.
Thinking logically is a different skill of it's own.

Answer 13

It's pretty obvious,
programming is all about logics,
being systematic in your problem solving,
so YEEEES!

Answer 14

For me no.
However that could be because I've always been that way even before doing anything programming, or so I'm told. I don't think I could be any more logical when it comes to thinking/problem solving. I'm already at the extream end of the spectrum. Perhaps this is why I was drawn to programming in the first place?

Answer 15

On a broader scale -- I think it has a lot more to do with encouraging the use of critical analysis. Logic isn't a direct product... though habits of analysis often pave way for new forms of logical thinking... It's almost like a cause/effect kind of thing... though not always. It really just depends on who the person is.

Answer 16

It will absolutely make you smarter and more intelligent. It will help you think straighter, deeper, and more critically. 

Here are just some of the things that programming can teach you:

The value of precision: One typo and the program will halt. The programmer must be precise and accurate to achieve any desired results.How to tame complexity: Code must be as simple and obvious as possible. The same ideas can be expressed many ways, but each with its own degree of complexity that often depends on its relation with everything else.How to use tools: Programming requires tools.How to logically express ideas: Any idea must be formulated logically for it to be computationally processed.Communication: Any logically expressed ideas must also be expressed in regular language when the programmer is asked to explain themselves or their code. There is communication between team members, between the coder and person providing the project, and the cod
er and the user, in the form of help files and documentation.Abstraction: Each function and variable is produced with the act of abstraction. These abstractions are the inner-workings of any application. Specifications of others must be understood, but your specifications must also be created.Intention: Every abstraction is intentional. A program is an act of design that reflects the intentions of the programmer. Out of all the passive activities involved in learning, programming requires the same muscles as art and writing exercises. It hones desires. If your program sucks, its your fault.

Answer 17

yes it can...
like learning cooking
like every activity which needs planning and devide a big problem into little ones.
but: It is easier to debug an infinite loop than too much salt in the soup.
so programming seems to be a better training

Answer 18

The Drawback of using programming as a rationale for thinking is that it does not include feelings as a requirement. its always used in finding the best possible way of thinking . being too logical is being like a machine than a social being.

Answer 19

Yes, It will absolutely make you smarter and more intelligent. It will help you think straighter, deeper, and more critically.

Answer 20

Yes. Programming is using similar skill set as maths. so very logical. The more you work on it the better your logical skills will get. :-)