Phase 1 Assessment: Reflecting on My Journey

What I've Learned and What Interested Me

Phase 1 has been a transformative period in my coding journey. I delved into various aspects of web development, reinforcing my JavaScript skills and exploring new techniques. This phase allowed me to build a solid foundation and sparked my interest in different areas of coding and problem-solving. I particularly enjoyed working on projects like the ramen rating app and the fitness tracker, which combined both creativity and technical skills. These projects not only honed my coding abilities but also allowed me to see the real-world applications of what I was learning.

Challenges Overcome

Throughout this phase, I faced several challenges that tested my resilience and determination. One major hurdle was my tendency to abbreviate code, leading to confusion when debugging. To address this, I started writing more descriptive code, making it easier to understand and troubleshoot. This change improved my efficiency and reduced the time spent on debugging significantly.

Another challenge was my habit of skimming through materials, assuming I had grasped the concepts. This often led to gaps in my understanding. I made a conscious effort to thoroughly read and comprehend each topic, which significantly improved my grasp of JavaScript. Practicing deliberate and focused reading has become an integral part of my learning process.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Improved understanding of JavaScript concepts.

• Developed better coding practices.

• Enhanced problem-solving skills.

• Increased ability to focus and comprehend detailed materials.

• Successfully completed several projects that integrated various aspects of web development.

Cons:

• Struggled with code abbreviation leading to confusion.

• Occasionally skimmed through materials, missing crucial details.

• Initial difficulty in managing time effectively for study and practice.

Continuous Improvement

One of the biggest improvements I've made is writing more descriptive code to avoid confusion. Additionally, I've practiced reading materials more thoroughly, ensuring a deeper understanding of the content. By verbalizing my coding process, I have been able to clarify my thoughts and improve my problem-solving strategies. This technique has also helped in identifying and correcting mistakes early on.

Goals for the Next Phase

To Do:

• Continue verbalizing my coding process to enhance understanding.

• Improve my mental visualization of web application structures.

• Maintain thorough practices to understand concepts quickly.

• Implement time management strategies to balance study, practice, and personal well-being effectively.

Reflections on What Went Well and What Didn't

Successes:

• Gained a better understanding of JavaScript through repeated practice and thorough study.

• Overcame bad habits of skimming through materials and abbreviating code.

• Successfully built projects that demonstrated my growing skill set and creativity.

• Developed a more disciplined and focused approach to learning.

Areas for Improvement:

• Address procrastination by staying motivated and on track.

• Continue building on my foundational knowledge and advance my skills.

• Enhance time management to ensure consistent progress and avoid burnout.

Intentions for the New Month

Word to Describe My Intention: Progress

My intention for this new month is to continue learning and stay ahead of the curve. I'm excited to delve deeper into new concepts and expand my coding knowledge. Each new concept and technique opens up more possibilities for what I can create and achieve.

What Excites Me Most

The prospect of learning more excites me the most about this new month. I'm particularly looking forward to tackling more complex projects and improving my problem-solving abilities. The thrill of overcoming challenges and seeing tangible progress in my skills keeps me motivated and eager to learn.

Plan for Achieving My Goals

1. Study Routine:

   • Dedicate 6-8 hours a day to study, split into 2-hour chunks.

   • Include breaks to prevent burnout and maintain productivity.

2. Physical Activity:

   • Continue working out regularly to maintain physical and mental well-being.

   • Incorporate activities that promote relaxation and stress relief.

3. Procrastination:

   • Avoid delays and stay focused on tasks.

   • Set specific, achievable goals for each study session.

   • Use tools like planners and reminders to keep track of progress and deadlines.

By following this plan and maintaining a disciplined approach, I am confident that I will achieve my goals and continue to grow as a developer. The journey so far has been challenging but rewarding, and I am excited about what lies ahead.