Python is an uncomplicated language, and Django is even simpler. But becoming a knowledgeable, sought-after, and skillful specialist isn’t a child’s play. Fortunately, some people managed to overcome all challenges. They can share their experiences and give practical advice. Let’s deep dive into six tips by Python developers on how to become a first-class specialist.
1. Write Clean and Readable Code
This point seems obvious. However, many developers still don’t realize that messy and complicated code isn’t good even if it works. It should be readable and easily comprehensible by fellow specialists. The truth is that writing a complex code is simple. It takes effort to organize the logic, design, layout, and whole structure into a clean code. For that purpose, experts advise using spaces, line breaks, and string quotes.
2. Practice Reading Other Developers’ Code
A proficient specialist should write not only code but also read it. It’s a tested way of improving coding skills. Moreover, by reading Django codes, you get familiar with different styles utilized by other people. You get an idea of how developers of your skill level can solve various problems and tasks.
3. Read Coding Books
Even experienced developers don’t trust their knowledge and seek ways to improve their skills. Reading professional literature can always teach you something new. If you cannot find sufficient material in books about Django, take online courses, watch video tutorials, and read guides. It will increase your confidence as a specialist.
4. Work on Freelance Projects
Writing Django code and creating a portfolio just for you isn’t sufficient for becoming a successful developer. It would help if you worked on real projects; solve real-life business problems to get experienced. Don’t focus on making money. Paid or unpaid – provide Python services to improve your skills and work with different scenarios. Then, put the completed projects together and make a portfolio. As a beginner developer, you can find your first job on freelance platforms like Upwork or Fiverr.
5. Improve Your Teamwork Skills
Writing Django code shouldn’t be a one-person job. Even if you are currently a freelancer, you may want to work in a team one day. So, it’s essential to keep your teamwork skills sharp. Hence, find forums and make contributions to their open-source projects. First, that experience will teach you how to be a team player. Secondly, you can get familiar with other people’s working style, life hacks they use, strategies or tools they use. It will give you a general idea of what’s going on in the Django development industry and pull you out of isolation.
6. Grow Your Django Skillset
Another reliable, tested way of becoming a demanded Django developer is enhancing your library skills. Educating yourself by reading professional literature or online material is super useful, but you should improve your skills in libraries. Try to combine practice and theory – test everything you learn about a library. Then, create a project based on it and observe how well you can apply the theory in practice. This activity will help you stay competitive.
Final Thoughts
Django development is a highly competitive field. On the one hand, the demand for skillful specialists is high. On the other hand, the competition among developers is also elevated. Hence, you should work on your skills constantly, collaborate with fellow experts, contribute to open source projects, and even accept unpaid jobs to get experience. But our path as a Django developer doesn’t finish here. The field is innovative and frequently variable. You should always read professional material and keep up with industry news to be the first to learn about new features or approaches.
