Seeking help regarding mastering a language: is it necessary to learn the complete standard library?

Question

After finishing Sololearn's Java & Python tutorial, I started learning advanced topics from the internet, as well as books. But the Java standard library has 4000+ classes; & Python has an even bigger library. I now feel that it's extremely difficult for me to learn all of them.
So, do I have to learn the whole standard library for mastering a language, or will learning the basics of the language and essential classes/modules for a specific field suffice?

Answer 1

For your kind information, I have prior experience learning the basics of HTML, CSS, C and SQL for academic purpose. But I want to specialize in a more modern language like Java or Python.
I would especially appreciate suggestions from people who have gone through a similar situation and overcome it, as well as veteran programmers.
EDIT:
1. I know the use of both the languages, so it's not necessary to highlight that.
2. I can't even think of learning 3rd party libraries

Answer 2

In my opinion, I would say that it is nearly impossible to master any languages these days. Because of how massive some languages are becoming, such as Java and Python, there is just way too much information needed to actually master them fully. What I would suggest is for you to learn the basics of both languages, then think about where you want to go with them. Java can be used for software development for Android, scientific research, websites, games, and a lot more real world applications. Python can also be used for software/hardware development, A.I. and machine learning, robotics (which also ties in with A.I.), and is also used in a lot of fields in science.

What I would suggest is for you to look through what each language is good for and decide what you want to do with it. Then, learn nearly everything you need to know about that one field and you should be good.

Hope this helped!

Answer 3

I usually work the other way around. 🤔
1- what do I want to make?
2-what do I need to make it?
3-learn 2 and make 1.
Rinse and repeat for best results 😁.

For most you’ll need only the standard libraries (plus some handy system specific calls)... and then a set of required ones for specific fields and features.
If you try to learn all in python huh...don’t... just don’t.
Way too many libraries and version specific stuff. Better to stick to what you need .
Hope this helps.
Do take into account this is just my opinion and those and advice are a dime a dozen . 🤣

Answer 4

No. You just have to know where to look.