Learning to code is often touted as the golden ticket to a successful and fulfilling career in today’s digital age. As a software engineer who transitioned into tech from a non-traditional background – my degree is in English and Psychology – I frequently encounter individuals pondering the same question: “Should I Try A Coding Career?”. This question comes from diverse groups, ranging from college students nearing graduation to professionals considering a career change later in life.
Embarking on a coding journey is a significant investment of your time, energy, and finances. Therefore, it’s perfectly reasonable to question whether learning to code will truly be beneficial for you before you commit to this path.
If you’re reading this, it’s highly likely you’re grappling with this very decision. Ultimately, the choice of whether or not to pursue a coding career rests with you. However, my aim is to provide you with a clear roadmap to navigate this important crossroads, aligning your interests with the realities of a career in coding. In this guide, we will explore:
Table of Contents
Is a Tech Career Right For You? Take Our 3-Minute Quiz!
You Will Learn:
☑️ If a career in tech aligns with your strengths and interests
☑️ Which tech careers are the most suitable for you
☑️ The essential skills you’ll need to achieve your career goals
[ ](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/8574156/8788de2c-4d8d-4372-9c15-ad23615b4ce7)1. My Journey into Coding: Why I Chose This Path
My background is in English and Psychology, fields seemingly distant from the world of technology. Before I started coding, I held various jobs, but none provided the creative fulfillment I craved. Seven years ago, a colleague suggested exploring web design, and the idea resonated with me.
I began experimenting with online coding courses and was immediately captivated by the tangible application of language in programming. Spending months immersed in online learning and researching different educational paths, I decided to fully commit to a coding career and enrolled in a bootcamp. Seven years later, my learning journey continues, and I still find immense satisfaction in this field. My personal experience underscores that a coding career is attainable even with a non-traditional background, and that passion and curiosity are key drivers for success.
2. Deciding if a Coding Career is For You: Key Considerations
Choosing a career path is a significant decision. If you’re wondering “should I try a coding career?”, consider these points to help you make an informed choice.
When a Coding Career Might Be a Good Fit:
You Aspire to be a Developer
The most direct way to determine if a developer career is right for you is to immerse yourself in coding. After all, coding will be your primary daily activity!
For instance, if you envision managing a website for personal use or your business, you could hire a developer. However, with even basic knowledge of HTML and CSS, you could handle website maintenance yourself. Experimenting with code and working through basic HTML and CSS projects is an excellent way to gauge your interest in coding as a career.
If you find enjoyment in bringing designs to life through code and creating interactive web experiences, front-end development might be a fulfilling path. If the idea of designing the underlying structure of a website – the organization and flow of information – appeals to you, back-end development could be your niche. For those who are drawn to the holistic approach, encompassing website appearance, structure, functionality, and maintenance, becoming a full-stack developer might be the ideal choice.
You Possess a Knack for Problem Solving
As developer Stephen Bly aptly notes, if you enjoy problem-solving for its own sake, coding could be a great fit. Do you find satisfaction in puzzles, brain teasers, and breaking down complex challenges into manageable, logical steps? If so, you might find coding naturally engaging. A significant portion of a developer’s day involves debugging code, identifying and fixing errors, or creatively leveraging existing code to build new features. This daily routine demands a strong problem-solving mindset.
Furthermore, a desire to solve societal problems or assist specific user groups can also motivate a coding career. Developers have opportunities to contribute to diverse sectors like healthcare, real estate, and human resources. Many engineers are deeply driven by their companies’ missions, viewing technology as a powerful tool for positive change and progress.
You’re Inquisitive About How Technology Functions
If you’re curious about the inner workings of websites and applications, learning to code is an excellent way to satisfy that curiosity. Grasping the fundamentals of HTML and CSS, for example, will illuminate how web pages are structured and styled. This foundational knowledge can demystify the digital world and empower you to understand the technology that shapes our daily lives.
You Embrace Continuous Learning and Skill Refinement
The tech landscape is constantly evolving. Imagine returning from vacation to discover a new version of a crucial framework has been released. Your next project necessitates using this updated version. Or, your manager introduces a new library designed to enhance code testing. These scenarios are common in the tech world.
To remain competitive and maximize career opportunities, continuous learning is essential. This constant challenge can be exciting for some, while daunting for others. When considering a coding career, honestly assess your attitude toward lifelong learning and skill refinement. Are you excited by the prospect of continuous growth, or do you prefer more static work environments?
You are Comfortable Working with Computers for Extended Periods
Spending considerable time in front of a computer is a significant aspect of a developer’s role. While other tech roles, such as product manager or engineering manager, involve more interpersonal interaction, the core of a developer’s work is computer-based. You’ll collaborate with product managers, designers, and managers in meetings, but a substantial portion of your day will be spent writing, reviewing, and debugging code at your desk. If prolonged computer work is unappealing, a coding career might not be the most suitable choice.
When a Coding Career Might Not Be the Best Path Right Now:
You Are Content with Your Current Career Path
If you are already satisfied and thriving in your current career, that’s fantastic! Congratulations! However, the fact that you’re reading this article suggests you might be wondering if coding skills could still be beneficial. Even if a career change isn’t your goal, coding can be a valuable asset in your professional toolkit.
For example, even if you decide against a full-fledged coding career, basic coding skills can be incredibly useful. You can automate repetitive tasks at work, express your creativity by building a personal website, or even create simple web games for leisure. While a coding career might not be your primary aspiration, acquiring coding skills can enrich your existing career and personal life.
You Lack Interest in Building Tech Projects
The applications of coding skills are vast, ranging from website development to contributing to cutting-edge technologies like self-driving cars. However, if you find the process of building and maintaining digital products unfulfilling, a tech career might not be the right fit. Genuine interest in creating and improving technology is a key driver for long-term satisfaction in a coding career.
You’re Not Fascinated by the Mechanics of Technology
Debugging code often requires delving deep into technical documentation and understanding intricate system behaviors. You might need to study language specifications, learn how libraries function, and troubleshoot complex interactions between software components. If the frustration of debugging outweighs the satisfaction of development, or if you find the process of understanding technical details tedious, a coding career could be challenging. Creating robust and efficient software demands a willingness to learn and master complex technical concepts.
Is a Tech Career Right For You? Take Our 3-Minute Quiz!
You Will Learn:
☑️ If a career in tech aligns with your strengths and interests
☑️ Which tech careers are the most suitable for you
☑️ The essential skills you’ll need to achieve your career goals
[ ](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/8574156/8788de2c-4d8d-4372-9c15-ad23615b4ce7)3. The Upsides and Downsides of Learning to Code
Still on the fence about whether you should try a coding career? Let’s weigh the advantages and disadvantages to provide a balanced perspective.
What are the Advantages of Learning to Code?
Abundant Job Opportunities
The job market for developers is undeniably strong. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a robust 22% growth rate for software developer jobs between 2019 and 2029. This positive outlook significantly reduces the risk of investing time in learning to code and then facing job scarcity. In fact, the demand for skilled developers often outstrips the supply.
Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics illustrates the positive job outlook for software developers.
Competitive Salary Potential
According to Glassdoor, the average salary for a software developer is around $95,645. This contrasts favorably with the median U.S. household income of $68,703 in 2019, as reported by the U.S. Census Bureau. While financial gain shouldn’t be the sole motivator for pursuing a tech career, a higher-than-average salary is a significant benefit that can substantially improve your quality of life and financial security.
Tangible, Real-World Applications
In our increasingly technology-driven world, coding skills have direct and practical applications across numerous aspects of daily life. Unlike some academic subjects that may seem abstract, coding provides skills that are immediately relevant and applicable to solving real-world problems and creating tangible solutions.
Transferable Skills Across Roles
Even if you learn to code but ultimately decide against a developer role, coding skills are highly transferable and valuable in various tech-adjacent positions. Roles like Email Marketer or Technical Project Manager benefit significantly from a foundational understanding of coding principles. These skills enhance your ability to collaborate with technical teams, understand project requirements, and contribute effectively in a technology-driven environment.
Location Flexibility and Freelance Opportunities
A computer and internet access are the primary tools for a developer. This inherent flexibility enables many companies to offer remote work options to coders, allowing you to work from home or anywhere with an internet connection. The minimal equipment requirements also make freelance coding a viable and attractive option, providing even greater autonomy and flexibility in your career.
Low Barrier to Entry
The accessibility of coding education is a major advantage. Numerous free and paid online coding courses make it possible for anyone with a computer and internet access to start learning. Compared to other career transitions that may necessitate years of formal education and significant financial investment, learning to code has a relatively low barrier to entry, making it a more accessible career path for many.
What are the Challenges of Pursuing a Coding Career?
Despite the numerous benefits, it’s essential to acknowledge the challenges associated with starting a coding career.
Financial Investment in Further Education
While introductory coding resources are often free or low-cost, in-depth learning can become expensive. If you decide to pursue a developer career, you might consider bootcamps, specialized courses, or advanced online programs, all of which can entail significant financial investment. It’s advisable to explore free resources and introductory courses to confirm your interest before committing to more costly educational paths. This approach allows you to test the waters and ensure a coding career aligns with your aspirations before making a substantial financial commitment.
Time Commitment for Skill Development and Job Search
While you can acquire valuable coding skills relatively quickly, securing your first tech job will still require time and effort. Transitioning into tech isn’t an instant process. It may take several months of dedicated learning, portfolio building, and job searching to land the desired role. Furthermore, your initial roles might be less advanced than your newly acquired skills, and it may take time to progress to positions that are both challenging and growth-oriented. Like any career change, establishing yourself in a new field requires patience and persistence.
Diversity and Inclusion Challenges
The tech industry, while striving for inclusivity, still faces challenges regarding diversity. Industry diversity reports reveal slow progress in representation, particularly for underrepresented groups. This lack of diversity can create challenges in finding mentors who share similar backgrounds and understand your unique experiences. However, resources and communities exist to provide support and guidance. Encouraging diverse individuals to enter tech is crucial for fostering a more equitable and inclusive industry in the long run.
4. Essential Considerations Before Starting Your Coding Journey
The world of coding offers vast opportunities for creativity and innovation. Initially, it might seem like you’ll be limited to creating similar types of websites repeatedly, or that your projects will always feel like a struggle. However, as you continue learning and practicing, building increasingly complex and personalized projects will become easier and more rewarding. As previously discussed, consistent learning and practice are paramount for a successful coding career.
Patience is also a crucial virtue. While enthusiasm to dive into code and land your first job is commendable, the path to a fulfilling coding career often involves a period of dedicated learning and practice. Some entry-level roles, like freelance WordPress or email development, might be more readily accessible than highly competitive software engineering positions at prominent startups. However, these more ambitious roles are certainly attainable with perseverance and focused effort. If you possess a genuine passion for coding and enjoy the learning process, the journey to your dream job can be both enjoyable and rewarding.
📌 Related: Explore Skillcrush Success Stories to see how others have launched their tech careers.
5. Debunking Common Myths About Learning to Code
In my conversations with individuals considering learning to code, I’ve encountered several common misconceptions about the daily life of a coder and the personality traits often associated with developers. These myths can create unnecessary self-doubt and hinder people from exploring their potential in coding. Let’s dispel some of these myths to empower you on your coding journey.
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Myth: You Must Be a “Math Person”
Regardless of whether you identify as a “math person,” you can absolutely pursue and succeed in a web development career. In my seven years as a developer, I’ve rarely needed advanced mathematical skills – mostly just basic arithmetic! Logical thinking and problem-solving skills are far more critical than mathematical prowess in coding.
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Myth: You Need to Be the Next Mark Zuckerberg
People from diverse backgrounds, ages, and experiences find fulfilling careers in coding. You don’t need to conform to a stereotypical “traditional” developer image to belong and thrive in tech. The tech industry welcomes individuals with varied perspectives and experiences.
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Myth: Coding Becomes Monotonous After You Learn the Basics
The tech landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies and products emerging continuously. If you ever feel stagnant, you can always delve deeper into your current area of expertise or explore a new direction. For instance, after mastering HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, you could learn a JavaScript framework like React or venture into back-end development with languages like Python. The possibilities for growth and learning are endless in the dynamic field of coding.
This constant evolution also emphasizes that your starting point – front-end or back-end – is less important than your genuine interest in the subject matter and access to quality learning resources that provide structured guidance.
📌 PS – If you’ve decided that a coding career is right for you, Skillcrush is here to help you get started! Our Break Into Tech course is a comprehensive program designed to guide complete beginners towards a new and rewarding career in technology.
Is a Tech Career Right For You? Take Our 3-Minute Quiz!
You Will Learn:
☑️ If a career in tech aligns with your strengths and interests
☑️ Which tech careers are the most suitable for you
☑️ The essential skills you’ll need to achieve your career goals
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