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97 Things Every Programmer Should Know summary
Brief summary
97 Things Every Programmer Should Know is a collection of essays by expert programmers. It covers a wide range of topics such as code simplicity, teamwork, and best practices, offering valuable insights and practical advice for programmers of all levels.
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Table of Contents
97 Things Every Programmer Should Know
Summary of key ideas
Understanding the Core Concepts of Programming
In 97 Things Every Programmer Should Know by Kevlin Henney, we start with the fundamental aspects of programming. Henney and other contributors discuss the importance of understanding the core concepts of programming, including how to think like a computer and how to effectively use data structures and algorithms. They emphasize the significance of mastering these basics, as they form the foundation of all programming work.
Henney and the contributors also highlight the importance of writing clean, readable code. They stress the need for clear and concise code that other programmers can easily understand, modify, and maintain. This section also covers the significance of naming conventions, commenting, and code organization.
Best Practices and Principles
The book then moves on to discuss best practices and principles that can help programmers improve their skills and the quality of their code. These include the principles of software design, such as SOLID (Single Responsibility, Open/Closed, Liskov Substitution, Interface Segregation, and Dependency Inversion), the DRY (Don't Repeat Yourself) principle, and the importance of writing modular and reusable code.
Contributors also delve into the principles of agile development, emphasizing the value of iterative development, continuous integration, and test-driven development. They stress the importance of writing tests and the benefits of automated testing. Additionally, they discuss the significance of version control systems and the practice of regular code refactoring.
Understanding the Business Context
Another important aspect discussed in 97 Things Every Programmer Should Know is the need for programmers to understand the business context in which their code operates. Contributors stress that successful programmers are not just code writers; they are problem solvers who understand the broader goals and challenges of the organizations they work for. They emphasize the importance of effective communication with non-technical stakeholders and the ability to align technical decisions with business objectives.
The book also covers the significance of understanding the end-users' needs and experiences. Programmers are encouraged to develop empathy for the end-users and to consider usability, accessibility, and user experience in their programming work.
Continuous Learning and Improvement
The final section of the book focuses on the importance of continuous learning and improvement. Contributors emphasize the dynamic nature of the programming field and the need for programmers to stay updated with the latest technologies, tools, and best practices. They encourage programmers to engage in lifelong learning, to explore new programming languages, frameworks, and paradigms, and to actively participate in the programming community.
In conclusion, 97 Things Every Programmer Should Know provides valuable insights and advice for programmers at all levels. It emphasizes the importance of mastering core programming concepts, following best practices, understanding the business context, and continuously learning and improving. By incorporating these principles into their work, programmers can enhance the quality of their code, their problem-solving abilities, and their overall impact in the software development process.
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What is 97 Things Every Programmer Should Know about?
97 Things Every Programmer Should Know is a collection of essays from experienced programmers and thought leaders in the software industry. It covers a wide range of topics including code design, testing, teamwork, and career development. Each essay offers practical advice and insights, making it a valuable resource for programmers at all levels.
97 Things Every Programmer Should Know Review
97 Things Every Programmer Should Know (2010) is a comprehensive collection of insights and wisdom from experienced programmers aimed at enhancing coding skills. Here's why this book is a valuable read:
- Boasting 97 diverse perspectives on programming, it offers a rich tapestry of knowledge covering various aspects of software development.
- Each short entry delivers practical tips and best practices that can immediately be applied to improve coding efficiency and quality.
- By presenting concepts in a concise and engaging manner, the book manages to captivate readers and ensure a stimulating reading experience throughout.
Who should read 97 Things Every Programmer Should Know?
Programmers who want to improve their skills and expand their knowledge
Software developers looking for practical tips and best practices
Those who want to stay updated with the latest trends and techniques in programming
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97 Things Every Programmer Should Know FAQs
What is the main message of 97 Things Every Programmer Should Know?
The book emphasizes essential programming principles and best practices for developers.
How long does it take to read 97 Things Every Programmer Should Know?
The estimated reading time for the book is a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in minutes.
Is 97 Things Every Programmer Should Know a good book? Is it worth reading?
97 Things Every Programmer Should Know is a valuable resource for programmers seeking practical advice and insights, making it worth a read.
Who is the author of 97 Things Every Programmer Should Know?
The author of 97 Things Every Programmer Should Know is Kevlin Henney.
What to read after 97 Things Every Programmer Should Know?
If you're wondering what to read next after 97 Things Every Programmer Should Know, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Big Data by Viktor Mayer-Schönberger and Kenneth Cukier
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- Abundance# by Peter H. Diamandis and Steven Kotler
- The Signal and the Noise by Nate Silver
- You Are Not a Gadget by Jaron Lanier
- The Future of the Mind by Michio Kaku
- The Second Machine Age by Erik Brynjolfsson and Andrew McAfee
- Out of Control by Kevin Kelly