I’ve always wanted to understand what is actually meant by this. I have wanted to get into programming for years, did some basic python and c, but could never really progress. Not necessarily a linux question but I know since most distros come with libraries already, it’s popular to use for programming.

I have trouble understanding what people are actually programming if it isn’t their job. Like, you go to your computer and start working on…what? I don’t know enough to make an entire program or debug a game, so im just unsure what people do especially when starting out.

Also I don’t really want to learn it for a job. I just want to learn it to know it. But im not sure how to apply it to anything realistic.

  • magic_lobster_party@fedia.io
    4·
    16 hours ago

    There’s a mix of reasons to start a hobby project.

    One reason for starting a hobby project is the learning experience. For example, learning a new programming language or a particular tech stack. The goal isn’t to build something useful. Often it can be building things that already exist. For example, a Minecraft server or a Gameboy emulator.

    Another reason is to build something useful for you. Maybe you have an idea of a program you feel should exist. Or maybe a program exists, but not in the way you want. Building it yourself can bridge this gap. Hopefully someone else might find your program useful.

    Then there’s also the people who do it for fun. It’s kind of like building a model railway. The process of building it can be more fun and rewarding than actually using it.

    Regarding Linux, it’s mostly a matter of preference. There are some things that are easier in Linux. Mac and Windows can sometimes be ” overly protective” and prevent the user from doing particular things. Linux has generally fewer of such barriers.