in reply to Software design -- The confussion of buzzwords
I learned bits of code here there and everywhere, but never did much serious coding till discovering Perl. When I started to do more I have found it easy to learn syntax, etc. But that underlying knowledge of how to start and proceed is tricky.
I have will be buying "Complete Code" now seeing as so many people suggested it.
One other person suggested Extreme Programming (The "good" XP), I have found it both confusing and usefull. XP is all about the concepts of coding and has helped me get more comfortable with design.
I also find that a large sheet of paper and a pen help immensely. When I have something to design/code. I tend to get a few large sheets of paper out and try to write/draw/scribble down what needs to happen. I also tend to start building a list of variables/constants/data. When I have a good idea of what needs to happen and the data in play the design tends to come easier. I have found Object oreinted coding tricky to get my head round at first but makes life much easier when you get a grip on it. So definitely read the tutorials here and elsewhere.
PerlMonks.org is the BEST resource I have found. The posts and the community responses (on the whole) to stupid questions is great!
So...
Complete Code - sounds like the "Bible"
XP - great concepts for managing the process
PerlMonks - everything else?
Lance
Kia Kaha, Kia Toa, Kia Manawanui!
Be Strong, Be Brave, Be perservering!