Introduction

You can't just write code to be a programmer; you have to solve problems too. When you're debugging an app, creating a system, or making code run faster, the first step is always to think about how you can solve the problem.

To be honest, the information on this page comes from a mix of experiences, lessons, and tools I've found. Even though I usually use the same methods, I still skip steps or start writing code without a clear plan. Sharing these ideas through this blog is just as much a way for me to remember to follow them every day. My goal is to not only share these ideas, but also to use them more consistently in my own work from now on.

This blog was made for people who have had trouble solving problems or getting past a programming task. Let's look at some useful ways to think like a coder and solve problems better.

Step- 1: Understand the problem

One of the biggest mistakes programmers make is jumping straight into coding without fully grasping the problem. I’ve done this countless times, and the result is almost always the same: wasted effort and frustration.

How to Do It

  • Ask Questions: What exactly is being asked? What are the inputs, outputs, and constraints? Don’t assume anything—clarify all ambiguities.
  • Reframe the Problem: Restate it in simpler terms. For example, “Build a search function” might become, “Take user input and return matching results within 1 second.”
  • Break It Down: Divide the problem into smaller, manageable parts. For instance, building a to-do app could involve tasks like creating the UI, storing tasks, and managing updates.

Why It Matters

Understanding the problem ensures you’re solving the right problem. Skipping this step can lead to misaligned solutions and unnecessary rework.

Step- 2: Plan Before You Code

This is the step I often skip, thinking, “I’ll figure it out as I go.” But every time I take the time to plan, the entire process becomes smoother and more efficient.

How to Do It

  • Use Pseudocode: Write out your solution in plain language. For example:
1. Accept user input. 
2. Check if input matches data. 
3. Return results if found; otherwise, show an error.
  • Visualize with Flowcharts: Diagrams can help you map out complex logic and identify gaps.
  • Start Simple: Focus on building a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) before adding advanced features.

Why It Matters

Planning helps you see the bigger picture, identify potential issues, and reduce the chances of rework. It also gives you a roadmap to follow, making the coding phase more straightforward.

Step- 3: Execute Thoughtfully

Once you’ve planned your approach, it’s time to bring it to life. This phase isn’t about rushing to finish—it’s about thoughtful execution.

How to Do It

  • Write Incremental Code: Break your code into small, testable pieces. For example, when building a login system, start by handling user input before adding database validation.
  • Test as You Go: Regularly test small sections of code to catch issues early.
  • Handle Edge Cases: Think about scenarios that might break your code, like empty inputs or invalid data.

Why It Matters

Thoughtful execution minimizes errors and ensures your solution is robust. It also makes debugging and optimization much easier.

Step- 4: Debugging and Iteration

Even with the best planning, bugs are inevitable. Debugging isn’t just about fixing errors; it’s about learning from them.

How to Do It

  • Systematically Debug: Use logs, breakpoints, or debugging tools to trace the issue step-by-step.
  • Isolate the Problem: Test individual components to narrow down the source of the issue.
  • Iterate with Purpose: Make changes one at a time, testing each to understand their impact.

Why It Matters

Debugging teaches you how your code behaves in different scenarios, making you a better problem-solver. Each bug fixed is a lesson in improving your approach.

Step- 5: Reflect and Learn

Reflection is the step most of us skip after solving a problem. But taking a moment to review your work can turn each project into a stepping stone for growth.

How to Do It

  • Analyze Your Solution: Did it meet the requirements? Could it be more efficient?
  • Document Lessons Learned: Write down what worked, what didn’t, and how you might approach similar problems in the future.
  • Learn from Mistakes: Don’t just fix errors—understand why they happened and how to prevent them.

Why It Matters

Reflection transforms mistakes into opportunities for growth. It ensures that every problem you solve contributes to your overall skill set.

Motivation: Why Follow the Process?

When you need help, it's easy to use tools like ChatGPT or search engines. They can be very helpful, but only after you've thought about things on your own. Tools should help you understand, not take its place. You get better as a writer when you take the time to understand the problem, plan how to solve it, and then try to do it yourself.

Writing this blog is a promise to myself to follow this process more closely in my own work. It's a lesson that tools are helpful, but the only way to really grow is to think critically and practice. At first, the process may seem slow, but it makes you more confident, creative, and strong.

Conclusion

Thinking like a coder isn't just about having the right technical skills; it's also about how you think and act. You can be sure you can handle even the hardest problems if you understand the issue, plan your answer, and iterate carefully.

I have to say that I don't always do this process exactly. Sometimes I jump right into code or use AI tools before I'm ready. But I'm learning to stop, think, and problem-solve in a planned way. Keeping myself responsible has helped me write this blog, and I hope it does the same for you.

Becoming a better programmer isn't about being great; it's about getting better at each problem you face. Let's all agree to go through with it.