Thread: Hello there + need a little advice :)

Hello, I'm new to programming and to the forum so here's a bit about me

I'm currently learning Java in my spare time and hopefully will start on C++ soon (Don't hurt me). I'm applying to University this year to study Software Engineering and will hopefully have a lot of fun doing so.

I haven't been learning that long really but I know stuff such as loops, arrays, methods, getters and setters etc. I will be covering inheritance, polymorphism, generics and other bits and pieces in the coming few days.

I do however need advice on how to use the stuff I cover in the best way. I tend to look at code and understand what is there but I feel like I have no idea how to use the stuff in my own way. I don't think that I practice what I learn enough so if anyone has any suggestions, that would be great.

Edit: Forgot to mention that I need to learn swing as well

Anyhow, I look forward to learning more and to meeting you all

Welcome to the forum, and I encourage you to share your enthusiasm.

I think you know what you need to do: practice more. So do it. It doesn't matter what you do to practice, but if you don't have your own projects to apply what you've learned - and the basic stuff doesn't always stimulate project thinking - then make sure you're following a structured study plan, like a book. Type out every example, compile it, run it, bend it, break it, until you thoroughly understand it and the principles/concepts being presented. If you don't gain total consciousness on your own, bring your questions here. As you finish each chapter, do every exercise completely and correctly. Again, if you need help, come here.

Swing has evolved, but many of the tutorials on the Internet have not been updated. For that reason, I suggest you use an up-to-date book on Swing or Oracle's Swing tutorials rather than the random tutorials you might find on the Internet. I also recommend you gain a thorough understanding of basic painting/graphics in Java before starting Swing.

Good luck!

Thank you for the welcome and the advice I currently have the book Head First Java so I will make sure I continue through the book and practice as much as I can. I will also make sure to understand the painting and graphics side first