Whether you are transitioning into a software developer from a different career choice or starting a new career in software development, the process is pretty straightforward provided you are willing to put work and effort. This is important especially when you are not going to enroll in a credited institution for the latter.

A software developer is a person who designs and develops everything that makes a computer work.

Software developers have an average unemployment rate of 2.5% according to US News. This statistic coupled with the fact that software developers have an above average salary makes software development attractive.

The Bureau of labor statistics concludes that the job openings are bound to increase as the population grows and technology advances. However, the percentage of graduate students with a CS degree is low leaving a wide range of job openings for anyone willing to do them.

1. Set a goal and devote yourself to it

If you are seeking to move into software development, clearly defining your end goal will significantly influence how you navigate through the process of becoming a software engineer.

Defining your end goal gives you a better and more precise picture of what you desire to achieve. There are many reasons why you would want to become a software developer, but if you are seeking to fully freelance, focus on graphical design, or start your own business, then there’s no need to become a software developer.

Ensure you are passionate about software development when starting on this journey.

2. Stay up to date

Employers and development firms prefer developers who are well equipped to tackle modern-day problems using modern day solutions. Staying up to date is hence important with new trends in software development, coding procedures, practice, and tools.

This is crucial especially with the ability of today’s technology to morph into a new advanced form quickly. Ensure you subscribe to news from sites that inform you of new developments in the software field.

3. Choose a language

Coding is the foundation of software development. It is the one thing you cannot go easy on. There are many languages to choose from in today’s coding world. Since selecting a word will determine your progress and also job opportunity market, this is a crucial step that demands careful research.

Every language has its advantages and disadvantages. Finding out which languages will best suit you might not be as easy as it sounds.

The most common development languages include:

• Python
• Ruby
• JavaScript
• Java
• C++

4. Pick the best learning method

Teaching yourself how to code might seem so easy until you start. Going through the internet and finding the correct material to learn and practice coding may prove to be overwhelming.

Furthermore, trying to stick to a specific timetable might prove to be hard. The best method: the one recommended by many software professionals, is to enroll in an online learning curriculum like Pluralsight that is specially designed and regularly updated to suit your needs better.

The online curriculum contains every material you would desire and present-day professional practice tools. Furthermore, most of these sites have an extensive network of learners with whom you could identify with and build your connections. You can also exploit these communities and forums to help you solve some coding issues.

5. Keep practicing

Signing up for such a curriculum is not the end of it all. You also need to dedicate your time and ensure you practice regularly. The more you practice, the more you gain experience.

6. Read other people’s codes

Reading other peoples codes enables you to have a wider field of view on how to assess and tackle situations differently. Most tech projects are done in groups and the ability to understand other people’s coding methods would make you stand out of the crowd.

7. Start creating

Learning alone won’t sell you to job companies. As a job seeker, you need to have built a few software to show to employers. Creating your software is also important since you might even sell the software and start earning good money.

8. Build a network

Do not underestimate the power of networking. Ensure you learn something new from every developer you meet. Furthermore, establish secure connections with other developers. You never know if such relations might turn into an interview or permanent employment.

Software development is the best way forward for those with a heart for coding. From the points above, it is easy to become a software developer without a degree in computer science. It all hinges on how willing you are and the strategical approach you use.