Buzz
This Mytour article guides you on how to start developing and maintaining open-source software within the programming community. Although individuals in this role are sometimes labeled as "software hackers," the position actually focuses on creating and refining software rather than infiltrating it. If you're interested in becoming the type of hacker who seeks and exploits vulnerabilities in software or operating systems, you can refer to the article on becoming a hacker.
Steps
Understand what you need to develop software. Becoming a software developer means dedicating significant time to building, refining, and updating free software to satisfy users and keep the software relevant. To achieve this, you must meet the following criteria:
- Have knowledge of both system languages (e.g., C++) and programming languages (e.g., Python).
- Know which platform you want to program for (e.g., Windows, Android).
- Be willing to invest time in learning about the chosen software genre, platform, and language.
Understand that anyone can become a freelance software developer. Contrary to common belief, deep mathematical knowledge, prior coding experience, and/or a college degree in computer science (or a related field) are not mandatory to learn how to become a freelance software developer.
- As long as you have an interest in learning software development and are open to constructive criticism, there's no reason you can't become a software developer.
Define your ultimate goal. Software development can be either a personal hobby or a full-time career. Determining what you want to achieve before learning a programming language or choosing a platform helps you stay focused on your path.
- While not strictly necessary, a degree in computer science or software development can enhance job opportunities if your ultimate goal is a stable career in software development.
- If your goal is simply to create an application or program that enables users to accomplish tasks that were previously difficult or impossible, ensure that such software hasn't already been developed by others.
Decide which platform you want to work on. Each major platform—Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux—has its own community, preferred programming languages, and unique requirements. Knowing which platform your software will run on is crucial before diving into software development.
- It's best to work on the same platform you're developing for. For example, if you're developing an Android app, using a Unix-based system like Mac or Linux is preferable to Windows.
- Linux is a widely used (and free) operating system for many software developers.
Choose a coding language. There are two types of coding languages. You need to learn at least one language before starting development, but eventually, you'll need to know multiple:
- System languages—Used to interact directly with the system. Examples include C, C++, and Java.
- Programming languages—Used to design software interfaces (what users see) and features. Examples include Python, Ruby, and Perl.
Familiarize yourself with the command line. Every computer has a command-line application (e.g., Command Prompt on Windows, Terminal on Mac and Linux). You can use the command line to interact with your computer and execute specific commands when needed.
- Even if you don't develop software directly from the command line, you'll need it to run certain programs or integrate software commands with your computer.
Download and use Notepad++. Notepad++ is an invaluable programming resource because it makes coding easier to follow with graphical support and serves as an excellent educational tool.
- While you may later use command-line-based text editors and other programs for coding, Notepad++ is a useful (and free) tool to get you started on the right foot.
Set up your development environment. The platforms and programming languages you choose often come with development software that allows you to save and test your projects on your computer. These tools are known as "development environments." If possible, find and install a development environment for your chosen language before starting to learn programming.
- For example, if you're developing an Android app, you should download and install the Android Studio development kit.
- Java users typically use environments like Eclipse.
Start learning how to program. Once you know which language you want to use, it's time to start learning how to use it. There are many online tutorials—both free and paid—that you can explore, and most libraries have books dedicated to programming languages (e.g., "C++ for Beginners") that allow you to learn a language for free.
- There are plenty of free programming resources online, so take advantage of them before enrolling in a paid course or class.
Find a community that supports your area of interest. Open-source projects like those on SourceForge or GitHub often have many followers. If you can find a project that uses the same programming language and/or shares your project's goals, you can join the community to contribute feedback and observe the development process.
- Like any skill, participating in the creation process—even as an observer—is the best way to gain practical experience.
Engage with the community. You can do many things, from posting in community forums to starting your own open-source project, but the main goal is to bring your ideas to life, overcome obstacles, and listen to community feedback.
- If you plan to start your own open-source project, be prepared to compromise with the community on the project's direction.
Look for open-source projects to contribute to. In the software development field, your main idea or small project might already be underway within a more experienced community. If so, consider joining the project. This helps you understand how software projects operate and brings your project to life, even if it's through teamwork.
- Open-source projects may not be your ultimate goal, but they are an excellent way to gather ideas and create software that meets users' needs.
Accept community criticism of your software. During the development and distribution of your software, you may encounter criticism. Listening to community feedback helps shape future development and provides shortcuts and solutions for similar issues in later projects.
- Not all feedback is constructive. If you encounter rude or unhelpful comments, try to respond politely if you choose to reply.
Participate in software development challenges, programs, or competitions. You can often find challenges, courses, lectures, classes, and competitions in community forums, places like Craigslist, and on campuses. Signing up for any event or hackathon provides structured guidance and immerses you in an environment with like-minded individuals.
- One option is Google's Summer of Code program, which introduces students to open-source projects and coding communities.
Continue improving your skills. Software development is a rapidly growing field alongside technological advancements, so ensure you continuously learn about new projects, languages, operating systems, and other relevant information in your area of interest.
- The success of a freelance software developer often stems from curiosity. As long as you ask questions and seek answers, you'll remain productive and thrive in the software development field.
Tips
- Starting with C (or C++) and Python provides a solid foundation, but Java is also a popular choice.
- Over time, you'll learn multiple programming languages during your journey as a freelance software developer.
- Computer programming may sound complex, but it's essentially communicating with a computer in a language it understands.
Warnings
- You should not attempt to revive an abandoned project that the previous team has stopped working on.
- Sitting in front of a computer for hours can have long-term health effects. Remember to stand up, stretch, look away, and move around at least once every few hours.
- Avoid asking questions about basic programming principles or tools in the discussion pages of open-source projects. A freelance software developer's time is valuable. Instead, discuss programming basics in communities for amateurs or beginner programmers.
- Be patient. Like learning any other skill, becoming a freelance software developer takes time and dedication.
