Exploring the Puzzles of Polymorphism: My Programming Journey
As a self-taught programmer with a background in mostly Electrical Engineering, Physics, and Mathematics, I've faced my fair share of challenges. While I have a degree that covers a couple of semesters of coding, my formal training in programming languages was incomplete. This limited my understanding and application of fundamental concepts like polymorphism. For years, this gap in knowledge hindered my ability to write complex and maintainable code, especially in industry settings where mentorship was often non-existent.
From C to Structs of Function Pointers
My initial approach to learning C was to dive deep into the language's basic constructs. However, as I moved into more complex projects and began to implement parts of the language using structs of function pointers, I realized that this was not the full picture. I had a superficial understanding of C, but not a comprehensive grasp of programming principles that could lead to more advanced and robust code.
Ten Years of Industry Challenges
Over the past decade, I've worked in various industries where the lack of formal mentorship meant I had to learn by trial and error. Despite my efforts, I struggled to write hobby projects that went beyond a certain level of complexity. I created some impressive small-scale projects, but they often lacked the depth and structure needed for more ambitious endeavors.
The Turning Point: Pivot and Growth
The turning point came when I needed to prepare for some interviews. This forced me to revisit my knowledge and expand my skill set. In the process, I discovered a wealth of new tools and concepts that I hadn't fully utilized in my decade of programming. Polymorphism, in particular, emerged as a concept that had puzzled me for a long time and was finally clarified.
The Power of Polymorphism
Polymorphism, the ability of different objects to be treated as instances of a common superclass, is a fundamental concept in object-oriented programming. It allows for more flexible, maintainable, and scalable code. Initially, I found it challenging to grasp, but as I delved deeper, I realized its true power.
Real-World Application of Polymorphism
In my industry work, I often encountered scenarios where polymorphism could have simplified and enhanced my code. For example, managing different types of data structures or implementing abstract classes and interfaces that allowed for dynamic behavior. However, without a solid understanding, I missed out on these opportunities.
Embracing the Future
Reflecting on my journey, I realized that while my initial training and experience were valuable, they did not prepare me for the full depth of programming challenges. The self-taught path can be fraught with gaps and misunderstandings, but it also fosters a deep curiosity and a willingness to learn. My path to understanding polymorphism was hindered by past limitations, but the takeaway is clear: continuous learning and a willingness to embrace new concepts are essential for growth in the rapidly evolving field of programming.
Conclusion
My journey with programming has been one of discovery and growth. From a superficial understanding of C to a deeper appreciation of polymorphism, I've learned that the challenges are not just about coding but about understanding and applying principles in a meaningful way. Embracing a self-taught approach has its benefits and its challenges, but the key is to continually seek knowledge and refine your skills. Polymorphism has been a pivotal concept that has transformed my approach to programming, and I hope to continue refining my understanding and application of this powerful tool.