Building a Career in Tech: Essential Computer Skills to Learn in 6-12 Months
As an 18-year-old ambitious to build a career in technology, it's important to start with the right skills. Here's a roadmap to what you can learn in 6-12 months that can help you secure a job or start earning money through web development and design.
1. Web Development Basics
Web development is a valuable skill that can be mastered in a relatively short time frame. For a career in web development, you'll need to learn:
Front-end development (HTML, CSS, JavaScript): Take approximately 3 months to learn the essentials of web development. Back-end development (Python with Django): It will take around 50 days to gain proficiency.2. Web Design and Front-End Skills
Web design is another crucial skill to acquire. It involves an understanding of:
Web design principles: Learn to create visually appealing and user-friendly websites. Front-end frameworks: Familiarize yourself with popular front-end frameworks to enhance your projects.Some quick wins include:
WordPress: Start building websites with minimal coding skills, potentially earning money within 6 months. Basic HTML, CSS, and JavaScript: Begin by mastering these essentials to create functional web pages. Programming languages: Explore JavaScript, Python, or C to build complex web applications.3. Further Learning and Specialization
To deepen your knowledge and open more career opportunities, consider the following:
OOP, Databases, Data Structures: These core subjects are essential for IT professionals. Free online courses: Utilize resources like Coding Courses for Busy People to start learning. Dedicate at least 5 hours daily to these courses. Microverse: Join Microverse for a 10-month long, intensive program that is free to learn but requires you to pay 15% of your salary until the tuition is recovered.Remember, there are numerous paths to explore beyond web development and design. Consider digital illustration, digital marketing, or even tinkering with a Raspberry Pi. The key is to find something you enjoy and that aligns with your career goals.
Conclusion
With the right mindset and dedication, you can acquire valuable computer skills in 6-12 months. The most in-demand skills are Python, PHP, and Java, with numerous online courses available to help you get started. Choose a path that excites you and sets you on the path to a fulfilling career in technology.