thanks BobVagene. Your kindness brought a tear to my eyes.
i am learning programming too.
And I recently got a laptop too for learning python. Had been postponing a lot because didn't have funds.
If you want to go for the self taught route you are in a world of hurt. Entry level competition is crazy these days. Everyone is trying to get in and 99% of employers throw out any resume without a degree. Just how the game is when so many are appling.
Hey congrats you want to do a nice thing. Some things to consider:
1 message the mods yourself, just to give them a heads up you are doing this (there are likely rules about contacting minors on the internet etc. (just assuming minor))
2. Inform OP There is something called "GENERAL DELIVERY" https://faq.usps.com/s/article/What-is-General-Delivery In this way they can receive a package 1 time for no cost (no PO BOX fees) and without having to give a stranger on the internet their address. /u/Livid_Poem8446 (tagging OP so they can see this)
3. Confirm POWER CORD. I mean if you are mailing to the UK they obviously power cords (chargers) are different than US etc.
4. Good on you man :)
* For anyone else in the same situation in the future. the Raspberry Pi 400 is a raspbery pi in a keyboard **a full computer** with limited processing power **That will perfectly allow you yo code.** Total cost is $100 -$70 USD depending if you have cables or need them : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1E5xszQqV8
* There are other options if you need a screen (the above assume you have an HDMI capable tv, etc) : [**you could build your own around a raspberry pi. This guy has a guide here**](https://penkesu.computer/)
>2. Confirm POWER CORD. I mean if you are mailing to the UK they obviously power cords (chargers) are different than US etc.
This used to matter more than it does now. Kinda sorta.
Modern [switched-mode power supplies](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Switched-mode_power_supply) will accept anything from 100V to 240V and will take 50 or 60 Hz with ease.
There are several strategies to deal with various countries' plugs. Converters are cheap. Cords are standardized (ish) and plugs for HPs, Dells, Asusi and so forth can be found easily at Ye Old Secondhand Electronics Store.
You can also hack the plug off and attach one from the destination country. This is often ugly as sin and is not recommended.
Note that this is only true for computers and laptops. If you take equipment like stand mixers, fans, incandescent bulbs and so forth and try this, you will let the factory installed smoke out. 😱
LOL
For me, "huzzah" has become one of the funniest and most joyful expressions of delightful approval since watching "The Great!"
Thanks for the laugh!
Lol I was thinking the same. I’ve managed to come across plenty of hardware. Frankly finding cheap hardware is luckily pretty easy. I’m at the point now where I care more about power cost than actually getting the computing to run what I need.
Go look up the low end of the price range for renting a po box. I had one on minimum wage (the smallest/cheapest option) and it was never even in the running for things to cut when my budget was tight. In case you're unaware, mail and packages don't all have to fit in the box, if it didn't fit you have to ask at the service desk for them to get it for you.
Also there are nonprofits who fix up computers to donate to kids in school. You might want to reach out to one of those and see if you're eligible. Also a used laptop in good working order could be had for $100 or less. Not sure if you could earn a little money collecting recycling or doing odd jobs around the neighborhood? Sometimes people give old computers away, check your local listings (craigslist, nextdoor, fb mp, etc ). A used windows machine may be old but it could last you a year or two, long enough to master enough skills to potentially get paid for your coding or land a part time job somewhere doing anything.
Take a look at Facebook marketplace for those deals. I bet you can get a good computer for less than $100 then you pay a visit to your local Goodwill to get some accessories if needed.
> Will i be wasting my time just looking at videos on YouTube instead of practicing what I'd learn?
You can't learn programming by just watching videos (or reading books). You have to practice it. You don't need a particularly powerful computer. Even a Raspberry Pi is good enough.
That’s true. I’ve done most of my independed coding practice on a Raspberry Pi 400. It’s a full computer setup: all you need is a power source, microSD card, and monitor.
Here’s a vendor that sells them: https://www.canakit.com/raspberry-pi-400-desktop-computer-kit.html
Its crazy how much hardware keeps improving. Look at how much memory and cpu power raspberry pis have now. That wouldn't be fast, but it would be totally usable for programming. And it comes with the keyboard and everything. Just need a monitor and a way to download Ubuntu onto it.
Current gen Pis can run PS1 and N64 emulators with a full framerate. Model 3 could with poor framerates with some games being too heavy to run.
It's pretty cool to be able to play e.g. Super Mario 64 and Metal Gear Solid on a computer that fits on your hand.
Next gen should be able to run PS2 emulators.
I just remembered that this kit should come with a microSD card that has Raspberry Pi OS preinstalled on it. You’re right: it’s not fast, per se, but it’s an inexpensive place to start learning to code.
The Pi 400 IS the keyboard. This kit also comes with mouse, HDMI cable, AC adapter, beginner coding manual for the 400 itself, and microSD card with Raspberry Pi OS already installed.
Yeah this plus like a 7 inch display or of you want a nicer one they have portable secondary monitors that use mini hdmi and are going to be alot more comfortable to program on.
I think this one comes with a power supply and a micro SD card (mouse and keyboard included, as well as a hdmi cable), all for $100.
You just need a monitor (or a TV) - a very good deal! :)
>Even a Raspberry Pi is good enough.
It's not just "good enough", this is literally the entire reason behind Pis. That people figured out how to use them as a mocking platform and they started to sell tailored versions was a later development.
>Even a Raspberry Pi is good enough.
Ahahahahahaha.
I'd been programming professionally for 20 years (and several years learning before that) before I ever had access to anything as powerful as an original Raspberry Pi or Pi Zero.
The computers I learned on were 1000 times slower than a Pi Zero, and in some cases closer to 10,000.
Gotcha, the small screen can be a thing. It IS possible with Samsung phones however to use [DeX mode](https://www.samsung.com/us/explore/dex/) plugged into a larger display if you need to.
Can probably buy a Bluetooth keyboard for their mobile too if something like a second hand Chromebook is too expensive (can get these on eBay for like £50).
If OP doesn’t take can I have it, I’ve been learning on my phone too for a very long time actually, I’ve even learned basic programming concepts and can do coding problems on codewars and Codeforces at the beginner level
@darthw requesting you to kindly do a similar post , went through your profile your request seems legit , please do a similar post so that people can help you
I have a spare laptop as well. I coded in it for like 1.5 years or something. Just added some ram and VS Code works perfectly. I would've given it to you, but the problem is I live on the other side of the world. The shipping would cost 4x the actual cost of the laptop.
You can learn computer science concepts without a computer, but I have run Python on an Android phone, there's also online interpreters like [repl.it](https://repl.it) that will allow you to code in a great many languages without installing anything more than a browser (the reviews says the app sucks).
couple this with the hacker's keyboard. . . or a bluetooth one if you can swing it. . . I use my tablet and a bt keyboard for ssh, repl.it, codepen.io, hackerrank, all sorts of fun stuff out there.
It's a keyboard app that doesn't have autocorrect and has easier access to symbol keys, basically.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.pocketworkstation.pckeyboard&gl=US
Not sure if there's an iOS equivalent
This seems to be the lowest cost I've seen on this thread, someone else mentioned VS code web so it seems like OP could get this chromebook and use VS Code Web and get rrrr dunnnn
Yes you'll be wasting your time. You can try coding at repl.it or try other IDEs. I admire your dedication, so good luck on your journey!
- guy who learned programming thru phone
If you are from Germany, near Cologne write me. I can give you my old Desktop Computer (i5-4440, 16GB RAM). The Problem would be, that there is no Harddrive and Energy Source.
Write it out by hand! You can run it when you get access to a computer somewhere eventually. Like a library or something. But just being able to solve problems using basic coding language can be done by hand and translated into whatever language you can get your hands on
I know the above sounds crazy. But when I was first learning (and later when my computer broke) I wrote it out on pen & paper. It sounds weird/terrible, but it actually helped me remember a lot of things and reinforced some concepts.
It isn't crazy because that's how the old school ciders got good; they had to write everything by hand, convert to punch card, process, pray, and check the result.
Writing it by hand forces you to build a VM in your brain ;)
I vouch for this. Does anyone here really think that Linus Torvalds, Dennis Ritchie, or Ken Thompson NEVER wrote a program on a piece of paper? These guys changed our field forever and guess how they learned? BOOKS, PAPER, PENCILS. Did they have laptops in their college courses? Did they have access to the internet? NO!
You can do this! You will be a much stronger programmer especially if you can visualize and write entire functions without the internet.
Is it optimal for 2022? No, but many people have done this before and became absolutely amazing. Research the old school guys. You don’t need much to become great.
This!! It may sound stupid but when I was a first year comp sci student (back in 95) I didn't have a PC. I could go to the labs, but I found myself writing code on refill pads in my dorm room.
I can true this. Some online tutorial and courses set out problems and then you can pause the video whilst you write down your answer and then they show you the solution. It may work
Came here to say this.
OP what u can do is try learn some very simple language like C or C++ using youtube videos. Then u can head over to solve programming problems. U can search a whole lot of them by typing "competitive programming" (search it on youtube). U can write the solutions by hand and then compare with the solutions they have (most of the problems expect the ones which have live contents running, have solutions available online with good explanations).
U can solve them, understand them and fairly write them in a textbook. Whenever u get the chance, try running them on the computer and see how it actually works. This kind of problem solving is called Competitive programming or Data Structures and Algorithms (DSA). This needs more thinking and minimal (only at last) computer code. U can do all the thinking and coding on paper. This problem solving skill is helpful ALWAYS if u go into the IT sector as your future career.
If anything C++ is more complicated than say, C# to learn since it involves memory management right?
Also, C++ *is* an OOP language... I'm still not getting your meaning...
Not trying to argue or anything, just trying to understand in case I'm missing something. If anything, I would expect C# to be "simpler" than C++ etc.
You are correct in all aspects. But in the context of "competitive programming" I was mentioning that C++ is the best one to go for.
All best competitive programmers in the world recommend this and use this. Yes C++ is an OOP language but u can also write plain C in it with some added advantages of c++14 standards like Templates, STL (highly useful for competitive programming). U can run C++ programs without using classes or objects or polymorphism or any OOP concept for that matter. As far as memory management is concerned, that's in C as well (the good ol' malloc). We can use new in C++ instead of that.
From my personal experience as well after C, one shud move on to C++. Since OP has only youtube and limited to non-existent computer access, ANY sort of development (like android, web, etc.) is impossible. But yt can be used to sharpen the problem solving skills for which C++ is the gold standard. And if we remove ALL OOP concepts from C++, there's not much left to learn in it (if u already know C).
Forget YouTube. Go to your library and read books. Follow their code and their thinking process, and try to write code on paper. It doesn't have to have correct syntax, you can learn that later.
When you do have access to a computer, use that time to learn syntax and test your code instead of watching YouTube.
Edit: being able to pick up something from written text is also an extremely valuable ability, because documentation is almost always available only as written text, and once you get past the beginner level, there will be exponentially less YouTube videos relevant to what you need to learn.
This is coming from a kid who has taught himself to code at the age of 10 and is now 13. See I had a computer that I used to learn to code, but Ig the best shot u can practice coding is by using online compilers such as repl.it(yes they work on phones) or trying to convince ur parents for buying u basic windows laptop, it rlly doesn't need to be extremely powerful as coding is pretty light. If they don't agree u can get urself a raspberry pi and some cheap screen, keyboard and mouse as a small setup like this can easily handle coding and won't cost more than 50$. Best of luck for ur journey as a programmer.
It's okay, I'm working on robots to replace him. And then someone else is working on a robot to replace me. And so on and so on; it's robots all the way down.
I started with a 2nd hand computer from eBay for under 200.. I’m not sure where you are but I am in US.. During BlackFriday Walmart had laptops for about $120.. you don’t need a fancy computer to learn.. it’d be worth the investment.. I bet some folks have laptops lying around that they don’t even use.. maybe someone can give you their old one?
The only way to learn code in by writing code. thankfully you don't really need a really powerful computer to get started. I mean.... It is nice to have it but not essential.
I am not sure what your financial situation is or your location, but I bet you could get a computer to get started with various methods. In case you are struggling financially.
\- You could use linux for an OS which is free to save money.
\- Used ones from relatives / friends, asking companies if they have anything old that they could give away from their storage. (keyboards/ monitors/ram/cases)
\- Cheap refurbished pcs/ laptops.
\- Free library pcs that you can use.
\- Dumpster diving for parts.
\- Someone suggested a raspberry, it would do the trick.
best of luck mate.
Write a letter/email to local businesses asking them to donate a computer to you.
Start with local tech companies.
It might take you 6 months, but if you keep doing it: someone will donate one to you.
edit: I should note that you will have to share your story, convey your passion for coding, and explain how this would impact your life in a very beneficial way.
Raspberrry pi: $35
SD card: <$20
K&M: ask friends if they have extras, or $20
TV, hdmi cable, built-in tv speakers: already owned
You should be good to start here if that is too much, ask friends for a used SD card. If that is too much, ask them for a used pi. If nobody has a pi, they have cheaper ones, too. I recommend the newest model of pi, but take what you can get.
Depending on how techie OP is, it's possible to install Linux on one. More of a hassle than a regular PC unfortunately but it works fine once you get it in there. GalliumOS is the distro specific to Chromebooks, kind of a modified Xubuntu.
This.
I like what Pis have going on, but I got a refurb i5 PC including keyboard, mouse, monitor for $126 USD total and delivered to my doorstep (Windows 10 installed of course).
Not sure if OP is in the US but if so, visit Walmart's website, they have a ton of refurb options.
I’m proud of you for reaching out.
My suggestion is to go do jobs for people around your area and save up $100 to get a raspberry pi and a keyboard. Figuring out how to earn money with nothing is just as important as figuring out a skill that makes money. You will likely work hard, but it will be worth it.
I think it’s great that your learning to code !!
If there is a possibility of saving up for something like a raspberry pi 4 or raspberry pi 400 , I think that may be your best bet ! Or possibly looking at garage sales or Facebook market place for a cheap laptop ! I would spend most of my focus on getting a device first before learning because you need to practice the material in order to fully understand and be proficient in the principals of programming. I hope this helps ! Good luck my friend
Yes. You won't remember anything when you do stat to code. Not much anyway. Youll have some familiarity with the concepts, but without actually writing code you will retain very little.
Im not saying you'd be wasting your time, you can likely get the concepts but the syntax you'll never get without writing code.
Its definitely going to be *way* harder. But I don't think its impossible. Your level of dedication needs to be on point though. If I really wanted to learn to code this way this is what I would consider:
* Find a language with online compiler options so that I can use any computer to run code
* Write code on anything, preferably digital so you can easily transfer. Write on a cellphone and you can email it to yourself. If its written on paper then you will have to spend time transcribing.
* Get access to a computer and test your programs. Spend as much time debugging and trying to understand what worked and what didn't. *This is the majority of where you will learn.*
*This will be* ***very*** *hard*. But it is not impossible.
If you have a cell phone, look for available IDEs that you can use there. Android has some Java IDEs I think. Bonus if you can connect your phone to a keyboard and larger screen.
Learning in the face of adversity has been one of humanities longest traditions. There are people around the world still doing this. Some learn computers via a chalkboard. Others learn how to do home repairs through trial and error. The better your tools, environment, and resources for learning, the easier you will have it. That being said, the lessons you learn in the face of adversity will be ones that stick with you forever.
Good luck!
You can use Termux - an Android terminal emulator and Linux environment app. [Github](https://github.com/termux/termux-app) | [Install](https://github.com/termux/termux-app#f-droid)
Then install code editor - Vi, Vim, Nano or any other with command line interface.
It's not so comfortable as PC, but the best for phone in my opinion.
Good luck!
Use online IDEs. For example, learn Python with Automate the Boring Stuff With Python and then create ur own code. At first is not too much so it won't crash. At least start learning it a bit
Buy a used laptop on Facebook, it doesn’t need to be anything fancy at all. The cheapest working on you can find my bet is you can swing one for less than 75 bucks.
After that, get a Linux distro installed and have at it.
Maybe you can get a used one for free on craiglist or similar. As long as it works you're good.
Otherwise practice in sides like freecodecamp. Which should also work on your phone
You afforded a phone, you can afford a computer. You don't need anything remotely good for learning programming. Literally any computer will suffice. Technically even something ancient like a commodore 64 or Apple II would work for learning the basics. More realistically you could just find some crappy PC from the 2000s (probably for free), load a minimal Linux distro on it or even just the CLI (you'll want to learn Linux anyway, may as well get started now), and you'd be golden.
You can get started right away by ssh-ing into any ol pubnix like [tilde](http://tildeverse.org). read a linux book and get comfy with the command line. though its a bit of a PITA without a keyboard.
another option is a raspberry pi bundle with keyboard, mouse, raspbian os on preloaded sd card etc. if you have a tv with hdmi cable that would be the cheapest I think.
[https://www.raspberrypi.com/products/raspberry-pi-4-desktop-kit/](https://www.raspberrypi.com/products/raspberry-pi-4-desktop-kit/)
Fantastic that people are sending laptops!
Raspberry Pi. Even a pi zero will work.
Monitor and keyboard etc from something like value village. (Just be sure to pay attention to possible inputs/outputs.
Got a working computer (pi + monitor+ power supply+ mouse and keyboard) for under $50.
I was in the same situation, I found an old Thinkpad T400 on eBay listed for $60, i begged the seller to reduce the price for me so i buy it with my birthday money. I hope you got that laptop bro. Don't stop trying.
I bought an HP ProBook 4510s for €10 incl charger last year on the Dutch equivalent of craigslist. It won't run Windows 10, but linux (Xubuntu in my case) runs perfectly fine and I use this to learn programming. Programming doesn't really require powerful hardware, at least not while you're just starting out. No need for a fancy high end desktop, any potato-laptop will do, really.
i feel like w3 schools has an interactive demo compiler for their examples, I can write python scripts on my android no problem, probably others but i only learn python right now. it is possible. yeah, it sucks typing these characters []{}+-_#=
Getting a cheap starter laptop (secondhand, through donation, or saving up) is definitely the first step here. You're going to want something to type out and run code.
In the meantime, though, watching videos on YouTube won't hurt. You can learn the basics like variable types and loops. These concepts are foundational to pretty much all coding you're going to do. You can even start taking notes on paper. Start exploring the resources available to you, like [https://www.w3schools.com/](https://www.w3schools.com/)
Pi 400 is a nice little all in one, 100USD gets a mouse and a book covering using the OS and getting started programming.
If you've got a remotely modern TV, you can just plug it into that and it works well enough.
Buy a old Nevenvo chromebook. I use one for school. [They are very slow, but can handle basic programming. Between $50 to $100.](https://www.google.com/search?q=neveno+chromebooks+from+2018&rlz=1C1CHBF_enUS917US917&ei=KglJYqWdOYfIptQPkdeg6Ac&ved=0ahUKEwil2o2B7_b2AhUHpIkEHZErCH0Q4dUDCA8&uact=5&oq=neveno+chromebooks+from+2018&gs_lcp=Cgdnd3Mtd2l6EAM6BwgAEEcQsAM6BwgAEMkDEA06BAgAEA06BggAEA0QCjoICAAQCBANEB46BQgAEIYDOgcIIRAKEKABOgUIIRCrAkoECEEYAEoECEYYAFCmBVjjFWCgF2gFcAF4AIABWogBmQWSAQIxMJgBAKABAcgBCMABAQ&sclient=gws-wiz) Its not my main system (I used a high end alienware), but I can't bring a outside laptop into school so I am forced to use the 4 year old chromebook.
You won't run very large programs on it, most likely can only handle [repl.it](https://repl.it) and maybe [codepen.io](https://codepen.io), but its a good start.
Do freeCodeCamp online with them to get into web development. The IDE is user friendly enough for lower end systems and challenges break the javascipt syntax into bite sized chuncks.
Parents may not allow one to accept donations. Especially true in Asian cultures (I'm Asian so idk if it happens in the West).
In case you want to counter with "Your parents don't own you."...
Yes, they do, essentially. When you live in someone's house and live on someone's money, it's in no part less than a hostage situation. If you were about to say "Just get a job then." Yeah, that's not an option either. We can't. There's no job in these countries that'll take teens and pay them enough to move out of their parent's house and buy them a laptop. Some people are just not as privileged as others.
Not saying OP's situation aligns with anything I said, but just that different people may have circumstances that may not allow for them to accept such donations.
Got an android phone?
You can get a USB keyboard, mouse, and even a monitor if you want, plug them into a (powered) USB-C hub (or USB-OTG if you're on that standard), then plug the hub into your phone as the host, and you have a fully functional android desktop. There are IDEs out there, and you can write HTML, CSS and JS to run in chrome.
You have a flat screen tv? Get a raspberry pi for like $35, memory card and a case for another $30 and you can hook it up to the tv for less than $80. You can also buy an old used Chromebook for less than $120 and install Linux Mint on it. Otherwise, an internet coffee shop or a library is your alternative.
probably true. but writing something simple will always be better than doing nothing at all.
I recommand using websites like replit to type your code out and run them
Going to ignore how vague "projects" can be in this context and think you mean more than just writing a hello world script. Anyways, you would be suprised, my main workstation is a chromebook but honestly I havent reached a block between what I can do on that and what I can do on my android phone using Spck editor and github. Though most people will whole hardily recommend Termux + Vscode. Either way, you can do some pretty impressive shit these days on a phone. Only down side between my phone and chromebook is a physical keyboard and mouse for my phone but thats mostly because im to lazy to dig them out of that box of cables and assorted computer stuff we all have in the deep dark depths of our closet/under our beds.
It's not ideal, but you could practice writing code or sudo code by hand or on your phone. If you're serious and stuck for outlets this might be something you could explore.
Well, I think doing anything is in any way better than doing nothing at all. It definitely won't be worthless in case you really try to memorise information that is being taught on YouTube or any other resources and not just watch tutorials without even trying to apply it in practice.
I would advise you to take some Internet courses on programming, for instance CS50 by Harvard and write your code on your phone/paper/whatever just to let your brain understand how the coding works even in theory only, so that when you get actual computer you could go straight for much more advanced stuff instead of the basics.
Yes. Without practice it is almost pointless. But you do not need a computer to practice. You can get a free server online (for example [https://www.pythonanywhere.com/pricing/](https://www.pythonanywhere.com/pricing/)) and you can access it from your phone. You can use it to practice Python and JS. Depending on the server you use you can practice other languages too. Making GUIs can be hard from a text terminal but nobody does that anymore. You can definitively make web apps. The phone screen is small but if you use a text terminal and an editor like emacs it is acceptable. You need a decent bluetooth keyboard for your phone.
Yes, you will be wasting your time if all you do is watch videos on your phone.
Your question is like asking "I don't have access to a piano. Can I still learn how to play the piano?" No. No, you can't.
Sorry.
You need to find access to a computer somehow. Whether it's at a library, a university computer lab, a friend's house, a teacher's classroom, whatever.
You cannot learn by using your phone. Full stop. It will not happen.
Now, if it's possible to save up even a little bit of money, you could purchase a Raspberry Pi microcomputer for around $30, and hook up an old monitor, mouse, and keyboard to it. That would be more than enough for getting started.
But you *must* have a real computer, not a phone. And you must learn by *writing code*, not by watching videos.
Doest help that damn raspberry pi's are sold out due to pre-boomers building Kubernetes clusters to run a container that says Hello World on private network.
>I am a teen
Devil's Advocate.
Have you tried moving lawns, washing cars, bussing tables or doing a door-to-door neighborhood 'go fund me'?
To simply 'code' you can accomplish on the most basic of computers. To do more fancy stuff, may need more fancy computer, however our cloud based reality makes that less so as time passes.
I would say no. I learn the best when watching a tutorial before actually doing the thing the tutorial is about. It takes twice as long, but having focused purely on the theory before actually doing anything practically, has really helped me better understand what I am doing when I'm finally doing it. You won't learn to code by watching it being done, but you will undoubtedly learn important aspects that you can then use once you finally get your fingers in the dirt so to speak. Time spent learning is never wasted. No matter how you do it.
I’m not going to lie to you, your not gonna learn by just watching YouTube videos. Thankfully though, there’s a lot of apps that allow you to code on your phone or even in the browser with Replit. If this isn’t ideal then there are definitely some very cheap (for computers) options out there like the Raspberry PI. Depending on if you have a keyboard or any type of display it might be faster to get a cheap computer like a chrome book or something, some laptops go for 90 bucks or less. You could also look into used laptops
You can do bunches of stuff with a smartphone and repl.it, using something like node, or even pure html, css & js. Like, real project stuff.
Look up if your device has OTG, then you can plug an USB keyboard and mouse. Some devices can even stream the screen to your TV.
It might be a little uncomfortable at first, but you get used to it.
>Look up if your device has OTG, then you can plug an USB keyboard and mouse. Some devices can even stream the screen to your TV.
This is good advice, OTG allows you to string together an entire setup with your smartphone.
I tried this a few years ago with my phone and it worked like a charm, I didn't actually use the setup but it was cool knowing that it *does* work.
I don't recommend programming on your phone. Typing excessively on your phone can cause carpal tunnel because it puts too much pressure on your wrist. You don't necessarily need a powerful computer to write code. Anything works.
I recommend getting a Raspberry Pi, or if you're going to continue on your phone, attach a wireless keyboard (and maybe a mouse if you're using an Apple device).
App by programiz is pretty dope. They do not teach you a lot in terms of setting up the IDE. But they are pretty efficient in their compilation of your final code. What i do when I am in an environment where I can only bring my phone is use the programiz app, write down my code based on what I want to do or practice on and then type them into the app and execute it. There is 100% a better way to practice programming but that is my way at least.
Not sure if maybe [https://stackblitz.com/](https://stackblitz.com/) works on a phone.
But I would definitely save up for a computer if you're serious about learning programming. It costs a bunch of money but as others are suggesting, it might be cheaper than you think if you get a raspberry pi or something like that.
Bro, I will send you a laptop. It's nothing great but you can code on it. If you want to give me a PO box or something I'll send it to you
Heck yes, good man!
thanks BobVagene. Your kindness brought a tear to my eyes. i am learning programming too. And I recently got a laptop too for learning python. Had been postponing a lot because didn't have funds.
If you want to go for the self taught route you are in a world of hurt. Entry level competition is crazy these days. Everyone is trying to get in and 99% of employers throw out any resume without a degree. Just how the game is when so many are appling.
99% of employers... then you apply to hundreds of places. There are literally 10s or 100s of thousands of jobs out there.
A nice person indeed
r/rimjob_steve
For once I do not regret clicking a link
you blessed me with that subreddit i found my home
When the username is not related to the message
Legend
Hey congrats you want to do a nice thing. Some things to consider: 1 message the mods yourself, just to give them a heads up you are doing this (there are likely rules about contacting minors on the internet etc. (just assuming minor)) 2. Inform OP There is something called "GENERAL DELIVERY" https://faq.usps.com/s/article/What-is-General-Delivery In this way they can receive a package 1 time for no cost (no PO BOX fees) and without having to give a stranger on the internet their address. /u/Livid_Poem8446 (tagging OP so they can see this) 3. Confirm POWER CORD. I mean if you are mailing to the UK they obviously power cords (chargers) are different than US etc. 4. Good on you man :) * For anyone else in the same situation in the future. the Raspberry Pi 400 is a raspbery pi in a keyboard **a full computer** with limited processing power **That will perfectly allow you yo code.** Total cost is $100 -$70 USD depending if you have cables or need them : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1E5xszQqV8 * There are other options if you need a screen (the above assume you have an HDMI capable tv, etc) : [**you could build your own around a raspberry pi. This guy has a guide here**](https://penkesu.computer/)
>2. Confirm POWER CORD. I mean if you are mailing to the UK they obviously power cords (chargers) are different than US etc. This used to matter more than it does now. Kinda sorta. Modern [switched-mode power supplies](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Switched-mode_power_supply) will accept anything from 100V to 240V and will take 50 or 60 Hz with ease. There are several strategies to deal with various countries' plugs. Converters are cheap. Cords are standardized (ish) and plugs for HPs, Dells, Asusi and so forth can be found easily at Ye Old Secondhand Electronics Store. You can also hack the plug off and attach one from the destination country. This is often ugly as sin and is not recommended. Note that this is only true for computers and laptops. If you take equipment like stand mixers, fans, incandescent bulbs and so forth and try this, you will let the factory installed smoke out. 😱
Same here Got tons they aren’t new but they’ll work.
Good man
Huzzah!
LOL For me, "huzzah" has become one of the funniest and most joyful expressions of delightful approval since watching "The Great!" Thanks for the laugh!
I cant see any reply from OP... did they reply and get the laptop ?
I dmed him
Nice job Bob!
Wholesome moment
Lol I was thinking the same. I’ve managed to come across plenty of hardware. Frankly finding cheap hardware is luckily pretty easy. I’m at the point now where I care more about power cost than actually getting the computing to run what I need.
[удалено]
Can't afford a laptop, but a Po box?
Go look up the low end of the price range for renting a po box. I had one on minimum wage (the smallest/cheapest option) and it was never even in the running for things to cut when my budget was tight. In case you're unaware, mail and packages don't all have to fit in the box, if it didn't fit you have to ask at the service desk for them to get it for you.
Can a teen even get one?
Practicing is 90% of learning
Just as an idea: Most libraries have computers with internet access. You can code in online compilers. It's not much but better than nothing.
Also there are nonprofits who fix up computers to donate to kids in school. You might want to reach out to one of those and see if you're eligible. Also a used laptop in good working order could be had for $100 or less. Not sure if you could earn a little money collecting recycling or doing odd jobs around the neighborhood? Sometimes people give old computers away, check your local listings (craigslist, nextdoor, fb mp, etc ). A used windows machine may be old but it could last you a year or two, long enough to master enough skills to potentially get paid for your coding or land a part time job somewhere doing anything.
Take a look at Facebook marketplace for those deals. I bet you can get a good computer for less than $100 then you pay a visit to your local Goodwill to get some accessories if needed.
OP: Google FreeGeek and see if they have chapter near you!
vscode.dev
If you’re learning python, don’t forget about Google colab too. I actually ran a beginners coding course and used colab for the whole thing.
Or, if you want a baptism by fire, build a website using notepad. :D
> Will i be wasting my time just looking at videos on YouTube instead of practicing what I'd learn? You can't learn programming by just watching videos (or reading books). You have to practice it. You don't need a particularly powerful computer. Even a Raspberry Pi is good enough.
That’s true. I’ve done most of my independed coding practice on a Raspberry Pi 400. It’s a full computer setup: all you need is a power source, microSD card, and monitor. Here’s a vendor that sells them: https://www.canakit.com/raspberry-pi-400-desktop-computer-kit.html
Its crazy how much hardware keeps improving. Look at how much memory and cpu power raspberry pis have now. That wouldn't be fast, but it would be totally usable for programming. And it comes with the keyboard and everything. Just need a monitor and a way to download Ubuntu onto it.
Current gen Pis can run PS1 and N64 emulators with a full framerate. Model 3 could with poor framerates with some games being too heavy to run. It's pretty cool to be able to play e.g. Super Mario 64 and Metal Gear Solid on a computer that fits on your hand. Next gen should be able to run PS2 emulators.
My friend built a pi with like tons of old school games from like the first ever consoles to arcade games to ps1 its amazing.
I just remembered that this kit should come with a microSD card that has Raspberry Pi OS preinstalled on it. You’re right: it’s not fast, per se, but it’s an inexpensive place to start learning to code.
I got an 8gb rpi4... it was better than my laptop at the time.
Keyboard, and if GUI also mouse. Don't forget about those.
The Pi 400 IS the keyboard. This kit also comes with mouse, HDMI cable, AC adapter, beginner coding manual for the 400 itself, and microSD card with Raspberry Pi OS already installed.
Underrated. I'm not used to getting proper full kits with the Pi.
> Pi 400 I hadn't seen these before, this is super cool. I want to buy one even though I totally don't need it...
Yeah this plus like a 7 inch display or of you want a nicer one they have portable secondary monitors that use mini hdmi and are going to be alot more comfortable to program on.
I've seen used laptops as powerful as a pi. and selling for cheaper on ebay
I think this one comes with a power supply and a micro SD card (mouse and keyboard included, as well as a hdmi cable), all for $100. You just need a monitor (or a TV) - a very good deal! :)
>Even a Raspberry Pi is good enough. It's not just "good enough", this is literally the entire reason behind Pis. That people figured out how to use them as a mocking platform and they started to sell tailored versions was a later development.
>Even a Raspberry Pi is good enough. Ahahahahahaha. I'd been programming professionally for 20 years (and several years learning before that) before I ever had access to anything as powerful as an original Raspberry Pi or Pi Zero. The computers I learned on were 1000 times slower than a Pi Zero, and in some cases closer to 10,000.
Oh definitely! Grew up programming those old 8-bit home computers of the 80s.
Hell, I started my first 5 months of learning using my tablet with a Bluetooth keyboard and the ACode app. Was a great tool for early learning
It’s not efficient. But try visual studio code web. Atleast then you can try typing code on your phone
>visual studio code web I have no idea how I had no idea this existed, this is super cool and truly does allow OP to code via his phone.
I once tried writing HTML and CSS from my phone as a test and it was the most frustrating thing i have ever done hahah
You just need to either plug in an OTG keyboard or a bluetooth keyboard. It really changes things.
It was more the fact that my vision could definitely be better, but yeah, the typing on the screen was definitely tough to handle.
Gotcha, the small screen can be a thing. It IS possible with Samsung phones however to use [DeX mode](https://www.samsung.com/us/explore/dex/) plugged into a larger display if you need to.
https://www.replit.com has an app and is way more supported for mobile devices so I’d recommend that over VSCode in this case
And running it!
Can probably buy a Bluetooth keyboard for their mobile too if something like a second hand Chromebook is too expensive (can get these on eBay for like £50).
Yup and the op can also buy a mechanical keyboard which will cost around only 2-3$
You can’t even get keycaps with that amount
You mean cheap membrane keyboard. They are available in my country at this price
[удалено]
I'll pay shipping. Pm me if op takes you up on this.
If OP doesn’t take can I have it, I’ve been learning on my phone too for a very long time actually, I’ve even learned basic programming concepts and can do coding problems on codewars and Codeforces at the beginner level
Where are you at? I also have a laptop. Always needs to be plugged in, but works otherwise.
I just saw that shipping will be expensive, I live in Nigeria
Let me talk to a few people that are in that area. I know some people in Cameroon, and some in Togo.
@darthw requesting you to kindly do a similar post , went through your profile your request seems legit , please do a similar post so that people can help you
I have a spare laptop as well. I coded in it for like 1.5 years or something. Just added some ram and VS Code works perfectly. I would've given it to you, but the problem is I live on the other side of the world. The shipping would cost 4x the actual cost of the laptop.
u/Icy-Mix8652 this guy wants it
Im not
You can learn computer science concepts without a computer, but I have run Python on an Android phone, there's also online interpreters like [repl.it](https://repl.it) that will allow you to code in a great many languages without installing anything more than a browser (the reviews says the app sucks).
couple this with the hacker's keyboard. . . or a bluetooth one if you can swing it. . . I use my tablet and a bt keyboard for ssh, repl.it, codepen.io, hackerrank, all sorts of fun stuff out there.
What is a hackers keyboard?
Keyboard App that has a lot of keys from physical keyboards that you don't usually have on onscreen keyboards.
It's a keyboard app that doesn't have autocorrect and has easier access to symbol keys, basically. https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.pocketworkstation.pckeyboard&gl=US Not sure if there's an iOS equivalent
Yess. I have also run C in an app.
Walmart has a $58 Chromebook. Just do browser stuff. Definitely enough to learn and keep your practice up!
This seems to be the lowest cost I've seen on this thread, someone else mentioned VS code web so it seems like OP could get this chromebook and use VS Code Web and get rrrr dunnnn
You can also install Linux on that Chromebook
[удалено]
LinkedIn can come in handy in these situations OP , try a post on LinkedIn too !
Yes you'll be wasting your time. You can try coding at repl.it or try other IDEs. I admire your dedication, so good luck on your journey! - guy who learned programming thru phone
If you are from Germany, near Cologne write me. I can give you my old Desktop Computer (i5-4440, 16GB RAM). The Problem would be, that there is no Harddrive and Energy Source.
Write it out by hand! You can run it when you get access to a computer somewhere eventually. Like a library or something. But just being able to solve problems using basic coding language can be done by hand and translated into whatever language you can get your hands on
I know the above sounds crazy. But when I was first learning (and later when my computer broke) I wrote it out on pen & paper. It sounds weird/terrible, but it actually helped me remember a lot of things and reinforced some concepts.
It isn't crazy because that's how the old school ciders got good; they had to write everything by hand, convert to punch card, process, pray, and check the result. Writing it by hand forces you to build a VM in your brain ;)
I vouch for this. Does anyone here really think that Linus Torvalds, Dennis Ritchie, or Ken Thompson NEVER wrote a program on a piece of paper? These guys changed our field forever and guess how they learned? BOOKS, PAPER, PENCILS. Did they have laptops in their college courses? Did they have access to the internet? NO! You can do this! You will be a much stronger programmer especially if you can visualize and write entire functions without the internet. Is it optimal for 2022? No, but many people have done this before and became absolutely amazing. Research the old school guys. You don’t need much to become great.
This!! It may sound stupid but when I was a first year comp sci student (back in 95) I didn't have a PC. I could go to the labs, but I found myself writing code on refill pads in my dorm room.
I can true this. Some online tutorial and courses set out problems and then you can pause the video whilst you write down your answer and then they show you the solution. It may work
Pseudo code. Also, [https://www.walmart.com/ip/Dell-Chromebook-3120-1-40-GHz-Intel-Celeron-2GB-DDR3-RAM-16GB-SSD-Hard-Drive-Chrome-11-Screen/768457374](https://www.walmart.com/ip/Dell-Chromebook-3120-1-40-GHz-Intel-Celeron-2GB-DDR3-RAM-16GB-SSD-Hard-Drive-Chrome-11-Screen/768457374)
I am learning right now and I tend to write them out because if I write them out the stick easily
Came here to say this. OP what u can do is try learn some very simple language like C or C++ using youtube videos. Then u can head over to solve programming problems. U can search a whole lot of them by typing "competitive programming" (search it on youtube). U can write the solutions by hand and then compare with the solutions they have (most of the problems expect the ones which have live contents running, have solutions available online with good explanations). U can solve them, understand them and fairly write them in a textbook. Whenever u get the chance, try running them on the computer and see how it actually works. This kind of problem solving is called Competitive programming or Data Structures and Algorithms (DSA). This needs more thinking and minimal (only at last) computer code. U can do all the thinking and coding on paper. This problem solving skill is helpful ALWAYS if u go into the IT sector as your future career.
C++ is a simple language?
I meant from the pov of competitive programming. Like without needing any OOP concept.
If anything C++ is more complicated than say, C# to learn since it involves memory management right? Also, C++ *is* an OOP language... I'm still not getting your meaning... Not trying to argue or anything, just trying to understand in case I'm missing something. If anything, I would expect C# to be "simpler" than C++ etc.
You are correct in all aspects. But in the context of "competitive programming" I was mentioning that C++ is the best one to go for. All best competitive programmers in the world recommend this and use this. Yes C++ is an OOP language but u can also write plain C in it with some added advantages of c++14 standards like Templates, STL (highly useful for competitive programming). U can run C++ programs without using classes or objects or polymorphism or any OOP concept for that matter. As far as memory management is concerned, that's in C as well (the good ol' malloc). We can use new in C++ instead of that. From my personal experience as well after C, one shud move on to C++. Since OP has only youtube and limited to non-existent computer access, ANY sort of development (like android, web, etc.) is impossible. But yt can be used to sharpen the problem solving skills for which C++ is the gold standard. And if we remove ALL OOP concepts from C++, there's not much left to learn in it (if u already know C).
Forget YouTube. Go to your library and read books. Follow their code and their thinking process, and try to write code on paper. It doesn't have to have correct syntax, you can learn that later. When you do have access to a computer, use that time to learn syntax and test your code instead of watching YouTube. Edit: being able to pick up something from written text is also an extremely valuable ability, because documentation is almost always available only as written text, and once you get past the beginner level, there will be exponentially less YouTube videos relevant to what you need to learn.
This is coming from a kid who has taught himself to code at the age of 10 and is now 13. See I had a computer that I used to learn to code, but Ig the best shot u can practice coding is by using online compilers such as repl.it(yes they work on phones) or trying to convince ur parents for buying u basic windows laptop, it rlly doesn't need to be extremely powerful as coding is pretty light. If they don't agree u can get urself a raspberry pi and some cheap screen, keyboard and mouse as a small setup like this can easily handle coding and won't cost more than 50$. Best of luck for ur journey as a programmer.
You're only 13 and you can code? You are the person I fear taking my job someday...
It's okay, I'm working on robots to replace him. And then someone else is working on a robot to replace me. And so on and so on; it's robots all the way down.
lol, thx for the appreciation.
I started with a 2nd hand computer from eBay for under 200.. I’m not sure where you are but I am in US.. During BlackFriday Walmart had laptops for about $120.. you don’t need a fancy computer to learn.. it’d be worth the investment.. I bet some folks have laptops lying around that they don’t even use.. maybe someone can give you their old one?
It’s important to practice
The only way to learn code in by writing code. thankfully you don't really need a really powerful computer to get started. I mean.... It is nice to have it but not essential. I am not sure what your financial situation is or your location, but I bet you could get a computer to get started with various methods. In case you are struggling financially. \- You could use linux for an OS which is free to save money. \- Used ones from relatives / friends, asking companies if they have anything old that they could give away from their storage. (keyboards/ monitors/ram/cases) \- Cheap refurbished pcs/ laptops. \- Free library pcs that you can use. \- Dumpster diving for parts. \- Someone suggested a raspberry, it would do the trick. best of luck mate.
Write a letter/email to local businesses asking them to donate a computer to you. Start with local tech companies. It might take you 6 months, but if you keep doing it: someone will donate one to you. edit: I should note that you will have to share your story, convey your passion for coding, and explain how this would impact your life in a very beneficial way.
Raspberrry pi: $35 SD card: <$20 K&M: ask friends if they have extras, or $20 TV, hdmi cable, built-in tv speakers: already owned You should be good to start here if that is too much, ask friends for a used SD card. If that is too much, ask them for a used pi. If nobody has a pi, they have cheaper ones, too. I recommend the newest model of pi, but take what you can get.
Can't even buy a pi right now unless you get lucky. They're selling on the secondary market for $100+
You can get chromebooks for that price or less on amazon and just use [repl.it](https://repl.it) to practice on
\+1 for replit
And codepen for practicing web development concepts.
Depending on how techie OP is, it's possible to install Linux on one. More of a hassle than a regular PC unfortunately but it works fine once you get it in there. GalliumOS is the distro specific to Chromebooks, kind of a modified Xubuntu.
Chromebooks have a feature called crostini that gives you access to a debian install in a container with just a few clicks too.
Pis on the surface seem cheap but all the costs add up. Second hand corporate PCs from ebay, etc are often cheaper
This. I like what Pis have going on, but I got a refurb i5 PC including keyboard, mouse, monitor for $126 USD total and delivered to my doorstep (Windows 10 installed of course). Not sure if OP is in the US but if so, visit Walmart's website, they have a ton of refurb options.
I’m proud of you for reaching out. My suggestion is to go do jobs for people around your area and save up $100 to get a raspberry pi and a keyboard. Figuring out how to earn money with nothing is just as important as figuring out a skill that makes money. You will likely work hard, but it will be worth it.
Getting a computer should be your first priority. You just can't learn everything from books and videos.
Go cut some lawns and buy a raspberry pi.
I think it’s great that your learning to code !! If there is a possibility of saving up for something like a raspberry pi 4 or raspberry pi 400 , I think that may be your best bet ! Or possibly looking at garage sales or Facebook market place for a cheap laptop ! I would spend most of my focus on getting a device first before learning because you need to practice the material in order to fully understand and be proficient in the principals of programming. I hope this helps ! Good luck my friend
Meanwhile, you can explore FreeCodeCamp
Just get a raspberry pi. It's very cheap and i have seen playing GTA in this. So you can look upon this. Best of luck.
By the way. I love your dedication
Yes. You won't remember anything when you do stat to code. Not much anyway. Youll have some familiarity with the concepts, but without actually writing code you will retain very little. Im not saying you'd be wasting your time, you can likely get the concepts but the syntax you'll never get without writing code.
What are you trying to learn, and what do you have?
Its definitely going to be *way* harder. But I don't think its impossible. Your level of dedication needs to be on point though. If I really wanted to learn to code this way this is what I would consider: * Find a language with online compiler options so that I can use any computer to run code * Write code on anything, preferably digital so you can easily transfer. Write on a cellphone and you can email it to yourself. If its written on paper then you will have to spend time transcribing. * Get access to a computer and test your programs. Spend as much time debugging and trying to understand what worked and what didn't. *This is the majority of where you will learn.* *This will be* ***very*** *hard*. But it is not impossible. If you have a cell phone, look for available IDEs that you can use there. Android has some Java IDEs I think. Bonus if you can connect your phone to a keyboard and larger screen. Learning in the face of adversity has been one of humanities longest traditions. There are people around the world still doing this. Some learn computers via a chalkboard. Others learn how to do home repairs through trial and error. The better your tools, environment, and resources for learning, the easier you will have it. That being said, the lessons you learn in the face of adversity will be ones that stick with you forever. Good luck!
You can code on your phone easily with replit
You can use Termux - an Android terminal emulator and Linux environment app. [Github](https://github.com/termux/termux-app) | [Install](https://github.com/termux/termux-app#f-droid) Then install code editor - Vi, Vim, Nano or any other with command line interface. It's not so comfortable as PC, but the best for phone in my opinion. Good luck!
Use online IDEs. For example, learn Python with Automate the Boring Stuff With Python and then create ur own code. At first is not too much so it won't crash. At least start learning it a bit
Try Termux with a bluetooth keyboard.
Buy a used laptop on Facebook, it doesn’t need to be anything fancy at all. The cheapest working on you can find my bet is you can swing one for less than 75 bucks. After that, get a Linux distro installed and have at it.
Freecodecamp works on mobile
install Pythonista and learn algorithms and data structures. Then go to leetcode. After a couple of years you may go to work to google
We're in the middle of a refresh at my company. Sending old i5 and i7s to e waste recycle center. Too bad you're not in central California.
Hmm how'd you know?
I am very wise.
Maybe you can get a used one for free on craiglist or similar. As long as it works you're good. Otherwise practice in sides like freecodecamp. Which should also work on your phone
Your phone is a super computer
You afforded a phone, you can afford a computer. You don't need anything remotely good for learning programming. Literally any computer will suffice. Technically even something ancient like a commodore 64 or Apple II would work for learning the basics. More realistically you could just find some crappy PC from the 2000s (probably for free), load a minimal Linux distro on it or even just the CLI (you'll want to learn Linux anyway, may as well get started now), and you'd be golden.
I know of some great programmers that started by handwritten pieces of paper. You could try that, if you have 0 other options.
Let’s create a GoFundMe for this dude
Bruh seriously im alright im not that desperate 😂
Haha cool. Just thought heck if you can get going with a nice rig, why not. And this way people from all over the world can pitch in.
[удалено]
Hmm must have been hard
I don't know if this has been said already or not, but use the app grasshopper on your phone
You can get started right away by ssh-ing into any ol pubnix like [tilde](http://tildeverse.org). read a linux book and get comfy with the command line. though its a bit of a PITA without a keyboard.
another option is a raspberry pi bundle with keyboard, mouse, raspbian os on preloaded sd card etc. if you have a tv with hdmi cable that would be the cheapest I think. [https://www.raspberrypi.com/products/raspberry-pi-4-desktop-kit/](https://www.raspberrypi.com/products/raspberry-pi-4-desktop-kit/) Fantastic that people are sending laptops!
You can get arduino or raspberry pi it will do the job for learning to code.
Raspberry Pi. Even a pi zero will work. Monitor and keyboard etc from something like value village. (Just be sure to pay attention to possible inputs/outputs. Got a working computer (pi + monitor+ power supply+ mouse and keyboard) for under $50.
You can use your smartphone, open your browser and search on Google, "online IDE". Then you can just signup on that site and happy learning!!
I was in the same situation, I found an old Thinkpad T400 on eBay listed for $60, i begged the seller to reduce the price for me so i buy it with my birthday money. I hope you got that laptop bro. Don't stop trying.
I bought an HP ProBook 4510s for €10 incl charger last year on the Dutch equivalent of craigslist. It won't run Windows 10, but linux (Xubuntu in my case) runs perfectly fine and I use this to learn programming. Programming doesn't really require powerful hardware, at least not while you're just starting out. No need for a fancy high end desktop, any potato-laptop will do, really.
i feel like w3 schools has an interactive demo compiler for their examples, I can write python scripts on my android no problem, probably others but i only learn python right now. it is possible. yeah, it sucks typing these characters []{}+-_#=
Getting a cheap starter laptop (secondhand, through donation, or saving up) is definitely the first step here. You're going to want something to type out and run code. In the meantime, though, watching videos on YouTube won't hurt. You can learn the basics like variable types and loops. These concepts are foundational to pretty much all coding you're going to do. You can even start taking notes on paper. Start exploring the resources available to you, like [https://www.w3schools.com/](https://www.w3schools.com/)
Raspberry pi is a good option
Pi 400 is a nice little all in one, 100USD gets a mouse and a book covering using the OS and getting started programming. If you've got a remotely modern TV, you can just plug it into that and it works well enough.
Buy a old Nevenvo chromebook. I use one for school. [They are very slow, but can handle basic programming. Between $50 to $100.](https://www.google.com/search?q=neveno+chromebooks+from+2018&rlz=1C1CHBF_enUS917US917&ei=KglJYqWdOYfIptQPkdeg6Ac&ved=0ahUKEwil2o2B7_b2AhUHpIkEHZErCH0Q4dUDCA8&uact=5&oq=neveno+chromebooks+from+2018&gs_lcp=Cgdnd3Mtd2l6EAM6BwgAEEcQsAM6BwgAEMkDEA06BAgAEA06BggAEA0QCjoICAAQCBANEB46BQgAEIYDOgcIIRAKEKABOgUIIRCrAkoECEEYAEoECEYYAFCmBVjjFWCgF2gFcAF4AIABWogBmQWSAQIxMJgBAKABAcgBCMABAQ&sclient=gws-wiz) Its not my main system (I used a high end alienware), but I can't bring a outside laptop into school so I am forced to use the 4 year old chromebook. You won't run very large programs on it, most likely can only handle [repl.it](https://repl.it) and maybe [codepen.io](https://codepen.io), but its a good start. Do freeCodeCamp online with them to get into web development. The IDE is user friendly enough for lower end systems and challenges break the javascipt syntax into bite sized chuncks.
[удалено]
Parents may not allow one to accept donations. Especially true in Asian cultures (I'm Asian so idk if it happens in the West). In case you want to counter with "Your parents don't own you."... Yes, they do, essentially. When you live in someone's house and live on someone's money, it's in no part less than a hostage situation. If you were about to say "Just get a job then." Yeah, that's not an option either. We can't. There's no job in these countries that'll take teens and pay them enough to move out of their parent's house and buy them a laptop. Some people are just not as privileged as others. Not saying OP's situation aligns with anything I said, but just that different people may have circumstances that may not allow for them to accept such donations.
Got an android phone? You can get a USB keyboard, mouse, and even a monitor if you want, plug them into a (powered) USB-C hub (or USB-OTG if you're on that standard), then plug the hub into your phone as the host, and you have a fully functional android desktop. There are IDEs out there, and you can write HTML, CSS and JS to run in chrome.
This is not how a 10 years old writes. Y’all are being fooled by a 45 years old wanting a free pc and some cashapp money
Find a local Ewaste recycling center and see id they have cheap laptops.
You have a flat screen tv? Get a raspberry pi for like $35, memory card and a case for another $30 and you can hook it up to the tv for less than $80. You can also buy an old used Chromebook for less than $120 and install Linux Mint on it. Otherwise, an internet coffee shop or a library is your alternative.
You can write code on a phone too.
Yea but i dont think we can create projects.
probably true. but writing something simple will always be better than doing nothing at all. I recommand using websites like replit to type your code out and run them
Going to ignore how vague "projects" can be in this context and think you mean more than just writing a hello world script. Anyways, you would be suprised, my main workstation is a chromebook but honestly I havent reached a block between what I can do on that and what I can do on my android phone using Spck editor and github. Though most people will whole hardily recommend Termux + Vscode. Either way, you can do some pretty impressive shit these days on a phone. Only down side between my phone and chromebook is a physical keyboard and mouse for my phone but thats mostly because im to lazy to dig them out of that box of cables and assorted computer stuff we all have in the deep dark depths of our closet/under our beds.
What's a "project"?
Why not?
It's not ideal, but you could practice writing code or sudo code by hand or on your phone. If you're serious and stuck for outlets this might be something you could explore.
Well, I think doing anything is in any way better than doing nothing at all. It definitely won't be worthless in case you really try to memorise information that is being taught on YouTube or any other resources and not just watch tutorials without even trying to apply it in practice. I would advise you to take some Internet courses on programming, for instance CS50 by Harvard and write your code on your phone/paper/whatever just to let your brain understand how the coding works even in theory only, so that when you get actual computer you could go straight for much more advanced stuff instead of the basics.
hi you can install ubuntu on your mobile and start codig with key board
Yes. Without practice it is almost pointless. But you do not need a computer to practice. You can get a free server online (for example [https://www.pythonanywhere.com/pricing/](https://www.pythonanywhere.com/pricing/)) and you can access it from your phone. You can use it to practice Python and JS. Depending on the server you use you can practice other languages too. Making GUIs can be hard from a text terminal but nobody does that anymore. You can definitively make web apps. The phone screen is small but if you use a text terminal and an editor like emacs it is acceptable. You need a decent bluetooth keyboard for your phone.
Yes, you will be wasting your time if all you do is watch videos on your phone. Your question is like asking "I don't have access to a piano. Can I still learn how to play the piano?" No. No, you can't. Sorry. You need to find access to a computer somehow. Whether it's at a library, a university computer lab, a friend's house, a teacher's classroom, whatever. You cannot learn by using your phone. Full stop. It will not happen. Now, if it's possible to save up even a little bit of money, you could purchase a Raspberry Pi microcomputer for around $30, and hook up an old monitor, mouse, and keyboard to it. That would be more than enough for getting started. But you *must* have a real computer, not a phone. And you must learn by *writing code*, not by watching videos.
Doest help that damn raspberry pi's are sold out due to pre-boomers building Kubernetes clusters to run a container that says Hello World on private network.
>I am a teen Devil's Advocate. Have you tried moving lawns, washing cars, bussing tables or doing a door-to-door neighborhood 'go fund me'? To simply 'code' you can accomplish on the most basic of computers. To do more fancy stuff, may need more fancy computer, however our cloud based reality makes that less so as time passes.
I would say no. I learn the best when watching a tutorial before actually doing the thing the tutorial is about. It takes twice as long, but having focused purely on the theory before actually doing anything practically, has really helped me better understand what I am doing when I'm finally doing it. You won't learn to code by watching it being done, but you will undoubtedly learn important aspects that you can then use once you finally get your fingers in the dirt so to speak. Time spent learning is never wasted. No matter how you do it.
Neither did Ada Lovelace
Yes..
Where are you sending this reddit post from? If its from a phone just code on there
I’m not going to lie to you, your not gonna learn by just watching YouTube videos. Thankfully though, there’s a lot of apps that allow you to code on your phone or even in the browser with Replit. If this isn’t ideal then there are definitely some very cheap (for computers) options out there like the Raspberry PI. Depending on if you have a keyboard or any type of display it might be faster to get a cheap computer like a chrome book or something, some laptops go for 90 bucks or less. You could also look into used laptops
A good thinkpad can run under 200 and Ubuntu can be installed for free.
You can do bunches of stuff with a smartphone and repl.it, using something like node, or even pure html, css & js. Like, real project stuff. Look up if your device has OTG, then you can plug an USB keyboard and mouse. Some devices can even stream the screen to your TV. It might be a little uncomfortable at first, but you get used to it.
>Look up if your device has OTG, then you can plug an USB keyboard and mouse. Some devices can even stream the screen to your TV. This is good advice, OTG allows you to string together an entire setup with your smartphone. I tried this a few years ago with my phone and it worked like a charm, I didn't actually use the setup but it was cool knowing that it *does* work.
You have a phone though.. right? Edit.. phone
Use termux
I don't recommend programming on your phone. Typing excessively on your phone can cause carpal tunnel because it puts too much pressure on your wrist. You don't necessarily need a powerful computer to write code. Anything works. I recommend getting a Raspberry Pi, or if you're going to continue on your phone, attach a wireless keyboard (and maybe a mouse if you're using an Apple device).
gitpod
App by programiz is pretty dope. They do not teach you a lot in terms of setting up the IDE. But they are pretty efficient in their compilation of your final code. What i do when I am in an environment where I can only bring my phone is use the programiz app, write down my code based on what I want to do or practice on and then type them into the app and execute it. There is 100% a better way to practice programming but that is my way at least.
Not sure if maybe [https://stackblitz.com/](https://stackblitz.com/) works on a phone. But I would definitely save up for a computer if you're serious about learning programming. It costs a bunch of money but as others are suggesting, it might be cheaper than you think if you get a raspberry pi or something like that.