The Top 10 Programming Guidelines That Apply to Life

Originally Submitted on 8/15/2001.

1. All You Need.

Good basics (strong core values) and reference manuals (experience, knowledge, open-ness). Don't wait until you "know it all" to get started.

2. Have a Vision.

Know what the end result is supposed to be. Talk to everyone you must in order to get a clear understanding of what the final product will look like. If it's your project, then create your vision first.

3. Plan.

Write out all the steps necessary to meet the project requirements. Put them in order. Identify pre-requisites.

4. Use the Right Tool.

Before you get started, figure out which is the best tool for what you have in mind and use that.

5. Build & Test. Build & Test.

Validate that what you are doing is working and is moving you closer to your desired results.

6. Communication: Before, During & After.

Before, communicate to find out requirements; During: Document the code. Keep it readable so that anyone can understand what your intentions were. After: Extensive documentation and user manuals.

7. Garbage In, Garbage Out.

If your inputs (your thoughts) are garbage (negative, self-deprecatory), then your results will be garbage no matter how good the program (your action) is.

8. Refresh and Revitalize.

Sometimes you just need to go home and get a good night' sleep before it all makes sense.

9. Collaboration.

When in doubt, have another pair of eyes look at your code and your results.You don't have to do it alone. Involve family and friends in your life and in what you are trying to accomplish. Let them support you.

10. Just Dive In.

Don't get caught up in trying to figure out what will happen if you do something. It is often easier to 'just do it' and see what happens.

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