Today we have tyler, NANY participant and coder with us so let’s get to know him more.
Q. How did you first get started in computers?
I first got started in computers by messing around with them. I’ve liked computers for as long as I can remember, but I never started coding until my cousin told me he was taking a web design class and learning HTML and JavaScript.
Q. Did you teach yourself your skills or learn from school/university ?
I learned HTML from a library book, C++ from an online tutorial, and AutoHotkey from its wonderful help file! All of my programming skills were self-taught.
Q. Do you have any other projects on the go?
Not really. I just got the idea for a swear-word checker that allows you to search a string and find out if there’s any repulsive language, but that’s still in its infancy.
Q. Which tool do you use for creating apps?
I find that Notepad++ is the best way to work with code, because it can syntax-highlight just about any file that exists. SugarSync keeps project directories synchronized easily, and it works nice and quiet in the background. Evernote is everywhere, and lets me jot down ideas no matter what I’m doing.
Q. How much time do you usually spend on Donationcoder & on computers?
I usually check DonationCoder once a day, just looking for news and other fun stuff. I spend as much time on the computer as I can without worrying my family. When I’m not coding, I’m chatting, surfing, or reading. LOLcats can be a wonderful cure for boredom.
Q. Do you have any hobbies and interests away from the desk?
I run occasionally (track, treadmill and street), but not often enough to call it a habit. I love camping in moderation, and I also like to hunt.
Q. If you could name five must-have apps you use everyday, what would they be?
I’m not dependent on any single app; it’s more like the computer in general. But most well-loved apps would have to be Google Chrome, Gmail, Evernote, RocketDock, and AutoHotkey.
Q. Your favourite stuff from: Food/ T.V.Show/ Music/ Books/ Website?
The Pendragon book series is by far my favorite. As to Operating System, I’m not sure anymore. Windows is everywhere, Linux has the best philosophy, and Apple… well, I don’t know much about Apple, but the idea of integrated software and hardware is intriguing.
Q. Where do you see yourself in future ?
I hope to be writing software independently, and perhaps creating consumer products. In any case, I see myself with computers.
Q. Any advice you’d give to new programmers?
You have to find your niche. Some will like getting deeply involved in full-featured applications, others will prefer short scripting. You may like web apps, you may love working with mobile devices. Look into the platform you’re coding for, then look into the language. And don’t give up! I can safely say that almost any current programmer will encourage and help new coders, because you don’t code unless you love it.