Planning a career as a programmer ? two learning tracks
Track A: Language-first approach. Start by mastering a general-purpose language such as Python. This builds core programming logic and problem-solving skills. Once comfortable, the learner can branch into adjacent domains—web development (Django/Flask), data analysis, automation, or basic machine learning. For example, a Python-first learner can move into backend APIs, data pipelines, or scripting roles across startups, healthcare IT, fintech, and enterprise automation. This track offers flexibility and faster entry into diverse roles. Track B: Full-stack-first approach. Begin with full-stack development, such as the MEAN stack (MongoDB, Express, Angular, Node.js). This provides an end-to-end understanding of building real-world applications—frontend, backend, databases, and deployment. After this, the learner should systematically study Data Structures and Algorithms (DSA) : arrays, stacks, queues, linked lists, trees, and searching/sorting algorithms. For example, a full-sta...