The Top 5 Reasons Why You Should Learn to Code

Jillian Holbrook
HackGuild
Published in
3 min readAug 12, 2020

Coding is a valuable skill. Whether you are still in high school, headed to college, just graduated, or a seasoned worker, here are the top five reasons why you should consider learning how to code as part of your education or as your next hobby.

1. Maximize your value in the workforce

Similar to learning a foreign language, learning to code can open up new career options. We live in a digital age where being fluent in one or more languages of code can significantly expand the jobs available to you. From programming and computer science to data science and web development, coding has a variety of applications.

In addition to upgrading your versatility as an employee, people with the ability to code are in high demand. If you’re looking to switch up careers, coding is a great option.

Instead of spending your next paycheck on another foreign language app subscription, consider signing up for Codecademy where you can take free courses to learn how to code. Even if you aren’t interested in entering the computer science field, freelance coding jobs are a great opportunity to earn some additional money on the side. Better yet, your office is your laptop; freelance coding means you can work from home.

2. Enhance your problem-solving skills

Learning to code requires both logic and creativity. The more time you invest, the more time you are also investing in building both problem-solving and critical thinking skills. This skill teaches you new ways to think because it challenges the coder to find unique solutions. Not only are you culturing a new thinking style, tackling problems aids persistence.

3. Become more organized

Coding is creative, but it is very systematic. As you pick up rules for coding, you will learn the importance of organizing your thoughts and programs with a logical structure.

Logical organization skills can easily transfer beyond the screen and help you structure your life with a more consistent routine. Plus being organized is another card up your sleeve to impress a potential employer.

4. Heighten your productivity

Sitting down to code requires patience and focus. This will keep your mind sharp if you aren’t easily discouraged by reworking the small details needed to polish your code.

Better focus goes hand in hand with productivity. Plus, knowing how to code lets you automate basic tasks, improve your workflow, and debug your computer.

5. Become digitally literate

Technology is only becoming a greater and greater aspect of our lives! None of us want to relive the feeling of not understanding our letters and numbers. As the prevalence of technology grows, becoming digitally literate is important to be able to interact efficiently with technological devices.

Coding allows you the opportunity to understand technology on a deeper level. When you understand how systems are programmed, you are better able to communicate with others about technology and utilize technology for your own benefit.

In Summary

Coding is ultimately a useful skill that teaches you new ways to be productive, focus, problem-solve, communicate, and use technology. Plus it’s a great way to expand your employment options or make some extra money. So what are you waiting for? Get started on your coding journey and reap the benefits!

Article By: Jillian Holbrook

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