Becoming a good programmer requires more than just learning programming languages and syntax. There are many things that can help you become a better programmer, and it’s important to know them earlier in your journey. Here are 10 things that I wish I had known earlier to become a good programmer:

1. Code readability is crucial

Writing code that is easy to read and understand is essential to becoming a good programmer. It’s not just about making the code look pretty, but also about making it easier for other developers to understand and maintain. Always strive to write code that is easy to read and understand, and use comments to explain the more complex parts of your code.

1. Write reusable code

Reusing code is one of the best ways to save time and make your code more efficient. If you find yourself writing the same code over and over again, it’s time to start creating reusable code. Learn how to write functions, classes, and libraries that can be used across multiple projects.

1. Debugging is a skill

Debugging is a skill that every programmer needs to master. It’s not just about finding and fixing errors, but also about understanding why they happened in the first place. Learn how to use debugging tools and techniques, and practice debugging your code regularly.

1. Learn to collaborate

Programming is often a collaborative effort, and learning how to work effectively with other developers is crucial to becoming a good programmer. Learn how to use version control systems like Git, and practice working on projects with other developers.

1. Keep learning

The technology industry is constantly evolving, and as a programmer, it’s important to keep up with the latest trends and technologies. Make it a habit to read blogs, attend conferences, and take online courses to stay up-to-date with the latest programming techniques and technologies.

1. Don’t be afraid to ask for help

Programming can be challenging, and there will be times when you get stuck on a problem. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from more experienced programmers. Join online communities like Stack Overflow and GitHub to ask for help and collaborate with other developers.

1. Understand the problem before you write code

Before you start writing code, make sure you fully understand the problem you’re trying to solve. Take the time to analyze the problem and break it down into smaller, more manageable parts. This will help you write more efficient and effective code.

1. Write testable code

Writing testable code is important to ensure that your code works as expected and can be easily maintained. Learn how to write unit tests and integration tests, and practice testing your code regularly.

1. Keep your code clean

Clean code is easy to read and understand, and is crucial for maintaining code quality over time. Learn how to write clean code, and make it a habit to refactor your code regularly.

1. Understand the business

As a programmer, it’s important to understand the business goals of the project you’re working on. This will help you write code that aligns with the overall business objectives and ensures that your code is useful and valuable.

In conclusion, becoming a good programmer requires more than just technical skills. It’s important to develop soft skills like collaboration, problem-solving, and communication, in addition to technical skills like programming languages and frameworks. By keeping these 10 things in mind, you can become a better programmer and create high-quality code that adds value to your projects.