From first line of code to hired developer — one clear route.
Programming teaches you how to code. Software development teaches you how to build real applications companies hire for. Seven stages, realistic timelines, free resources, and a quiz to find exactly where you should start.
The route
Click any station for skills, resources, mistakes to avoid, and time estimates. Use arrow keys to move between stations.
Your progress
Take the quiz to find your starting point.
10-question self-assessment
Answer honestly. We score each topic and highlight your recommended starting station on the map.
Worked example: Maya, 6 hrs/week
Maya is a career switcher studying evenings only. Here is her computed timeline per stage at 6 focused hours per week, using the midpoint of each estimate.
| Stage | Estimated hours | Maya's weeks |
|---|
FAQ
Do I need a CS degree?
No. Many hired developers are self-taught or bootcamp graduates. What matters is demonstrable skill: real projects, a public portfolio, and the ability to reason through problems in interviews. A degree helps with some large companies, but strong projects open most doors.
How long until I am job-ready?
Typically 9 to 18 months of consistent part-time study (5 to 10 hours per week). Full-time learners can compress this to 5 to 8 months. Consistency beats intensity — a steady weekly rhythm through all seven stages matters more than cramming.
Which language should I start with?
Python or JavaScript. Python has the gentlest syntax for fundamentals; JavaScript lets you build visible web projects immediately. Concepts transfer — pick one and stay with it through stage three.
Frontend, backend, or DevOps — how do I choose?
Frontend if you enjoy visual, user-facing work. Backend if you like data, logic, and systems. DevOps if infrastructure and automation excite you. Try a small project in each during stage six before committing.