How to answer
“How did you first learn to program and what was the first thing you built?”
How to answer it
Start by sharing how you got introduced to programming, whether through formal education, online courses, or personal exploration. Then, describe the first project you built, focusing on the challenges you encountered and how you overcame them. For example, "I initially learned programming through online resources like Codecademy, and my first project was a simple to-do list app. It helped me grasp the fundamentals of JavaScript, and I learned to implement functionalities like adding and deleting tasks, which sparked my interest in building interactive applications."
What a strong answer includes
- •Describes a specific project that demonstrates initiative and creativity.
- •Mentions resources used to learn, such as online courses, books, or mentorship.
- •Shows enthusiasm and passion for programming from an early stage.
- •Reflects on challenges faced and how they were overcome during the learning process.
Mistakes to avoid
- •Provides vague or generic answers about learning to program.
- •Fails to mention any specific projects or applications built.
- •Shows a lack of enthusiasm or interest in programming.
- •Cannot articulate any challenges or learning experiences.
Why interviewers ask this
Interviewers often ask about your programming journey to assess your passion for coding, your ability to learn new skills, and your problem-solving approach. They are looking for insights into your background, the resources you utilized, and how you apply your knowledge in real-world situations. Additionally, discussing your first project highlights your creativity and the practical application of your technical skills.