How to Know If Computer Programming Career Is For You

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By miasavc
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computer programmer at work

In this age and time, we are amazed at how computers impact our lives. Different institutions in our society rely on computer programs to make computing and automating tasks easier. The people who are responsible for designing and maintaining computer programs and applications that computer users use every day, at home and at work are called computer programmers. If you are considering a career in computer programming, this article will help you evaluate yourself to know if the field is really right for you.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Right skills

Step 1

Identify your passion. If you are passionate about computers and how they work, you are off to a good start. Career in computers require passion in the field. You have to have that strong desire to know how a computer operates since as a programmer you will be writing instructions (called software) telling the computer what to do.
Step 2

Take a career personality test. There are various websites that offer this test for free. Finding out if computer programming career suits your personality further strengthens your chances of success in this area. There are some people who think they are right for a specific career only to realize later that they could accomplish better in a different field. Preparing ahead is always profitable in the end.
Step 3

Evaluate your mathematical skills. To pursue a career in computer programming, you need to have a strong analytical mind. Being good in logical and lateral thinking are very important characteristics of programmers. A logical person can see through problems. You need to have a clear picture and understanding of the program you want to create before you can build it in actual. You also have to have the ability to troubleshoot problems later on as the program is running.
Step 4

Know the other essential qualities of computer programmers and check if you have them in you. These include design and analysis skills, perseverance, the ability to work long hours doing repetitive tasks, a spirit of teamwork (programmers in a corporate setting work in teams), attention to detail, the ability to meet deadlines, ability to trust your judgment, and the ability to make decisions. If you possess these skills, and met the criteria listed in the previous steps, then a career in computer programming is for you!

Comments

midcenturymaven said

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on 10/30/2009 I might just be a little too right brained to take on computer programming as a career, but I wouldn't mind learning more about it. Nicely written instructions. Thanks.

firefli23 said

on 10/3/2009 I never could get past the mathematics for this career. Great article on how to decide if you could be a programmer. I think I will stick to technical writing.

greatnews said

on 7/17/2009 Hmmm, I think I may have had number 1 when I went and got my degree in computer science, but the rest of it is questionable. :)
Great article! 5 *'s