Embracing Originality: Why I Write My Own Code
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Chapter 1: The Value of Original Coding
I am always eager to share with my boss the reasons behind my preference for writing my own code instead of borrowing from resources like StackOverflow. I’m unsure if he fully grasps my perspective, but I still hold onto my job, receive my salary, and enjoy our morning coffee chats at the cafeteria. Here’s my reasoning.
Sometimes, modifying someone else's code can take longer than creating your own from scratch. This is akin to a friend providing their notes to help you avoid reading a textbook. If you struggle to decipher their handwriting or explanations, the notes are of little benefit. The same principle applies to code; even if it functions flawlessly, a lack of clarity and documentation makes it challenging to reuse.
I have a strong desire to be original. While I may not always succeed, the pursuit of originality is important to me—it's about leaving a personal mark and creating something distinctive. Originality is a rare quality, and I encourage everyone to strive for it.
I often remind myself that practice leads to mastery, which is why I focus on coding functions or tasks that are already established, free from industry pressures. Even if you decide to utilize someone else’s code, it will require customization to fit your specific needs, and that adaptation becomes your own creation. Additionally, there are instances where the exact code you need simply isn’t available online.
Certain scenarios demand the creation of unique code. For instance, processes that are specific to a business requirement may not be found on StackOverflow or any other platform. Relying solely on copying and pasting can rob you of valuable learning experiences and insights. While using pre-existing code isn't inherently wrong, you will appreciate the knowledge gained when tasked with building something from the ground up.
Not every situation is identical; different people and companies have varying needs that cannot be universally addressed with the same solutions. In software development, there are common scenarios where you might repurpose code, but it won’t always come down to mere copying and pasting.
These are the motivations that drive me to write my own code. At least, they are my reasons for pursuing originality. It’s about creating something that is uniquely mine, and retaining the knowledge that comes with coding. Over-reliance on recycling can lead to forgetting the skills you've developed.
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