To effectively learn blockchain technology, you will need to gain a thorough understanding of the blockchain protocol and some programming language. Remember Blockchain is a protocol which may be implemented in various programming languages. Look at the following examples:
- Bitcoin is implemented in C++
- Ethereum has three reference implementations in different programming languages: the Geth client in Go-Lang, the Eth client in C++ and the PyEthApp in Python.
- Lisk, a blockchain application platform is built in JavaScript. The platform will allow different blockchain applications to be built on it in pure JavaScript to take advantage of its powerful APIs.
- There are more blockchain implementations in other languages such as Rust, Ruby and ERLANG.
You cannot be skilled in blockchain technology by simply understanding its basic principles like what a distributed ledger is and what a peer-to-peer network is. You need to be able to implement these principles. The only way is to learn a relevant programming language. To learn blockchain technology, follow these steps.
- Find out the Most Relevant Implementation Language
There are numerous applications of blockchain technology ranging from smart contracts to record management. You will need to find out the most appropriate programming language for your desired use. You can get this by conducting a preliminary online research to find out the language that has been used in a similar implementation project.
- Start with the Basics
Start with the basics and be patient with yourself. David Sinsky learnt how to code in eight weeks by spending a whole weekend learning introduction to python. If one method of learning such as books is not working for you, try a different one. Break your initial coding project into simple steps.
- Try Kids Apps
There are programs designed to teach kids how to code, do not shy away from looking at them. Some like scratch can be used by adults as well.
- Use Online Coding Sites
There are online sites where you can learn coding for free and get a good foundation in programming. Some of the sites are:
- Play Coding Games
Learning through games is a great way. Many programming tutorials show you how to build complex games yourself. However, there are sites like Code Combat where you can play coding games.
- Use Programming Books
If you get stuck in the process of learning, a reference book is a great way to find your way out. There are plenty of free programming books on GitHub.
- Take a Programming Course
There are various online courses that you can take to increase your coding skills. You can enroll at any level of learning and it will be great.
- Get a Mentor
There are online programming communities like Hack.pledge where you will find people willing to be with you at every step of your learning process. You could also become someone’s mentor. This will help you gain a deeper understanding as you teach someone else.
- Reverse Engineer Existing Codes
Once you feel that you have some knowledge of programming, you can enhance your skills by reverse engineering some existing codes. There are many open source codes which you can utilize.