DEV Community: Aman Pandey

Why I Took a Step Back from Open Source to Learn Node.js Properly

Aman Pandey — Sat, 05 Jul 2025 09:01:10 +0000

For the past couple of months, I’ve been trying to get into open source. I’d go on GitHub, search for “good first issues”, open up a bunch of repos... and then just stare at the screen like:

“What even is going on here?”

I wanted to help. I really did. But half the time I couldn’t understand the issue, and the codebase looked like a maze. Reading the README sometimes helped, but most of the time I still felt completely lost.

The Realization
After a few frustrating attempts, it hit me:

I don’t actually understand the language (Node.js) well enough.
I don’t get how bigger projects are structured.
And honestly... I don’t even know what some of these repos do.

Trying to contribute without understanding the tools or the context just made me feel like I was faking it the whole time.

So, I’m Changing My Approach
Instead of jumping into open source head-first, I’m hitting pause and going back to the basics — but this time, properly.

I’m going deep into Node.js, not just the syntax but the real-world stuff — like how to build APIs, use middleware, write tests, manage folders, etc.

I’ll build some complex projects from scratch — not just “To-Do apps” but things that challenge me and make me think.

I want to follow industry best practices so that when I look at an open-source repo, it doesn’t feel like I’m reading another language.

Once I feel more confident and actually understand the projects I’m looking at, I’ll go back to contributing. And this time, I won’t be just guessing — I’ll be adding real value.

You're Not Alone If You're Struggling
If you’re in the same boat trying to contribute but feeling stuck it’s okay. Learning takes time. And it’s totally fine to take a step back, learn the ropes, and come back stronger.

We all start somewhere. 💪

The Resources I'll be using:

NodeJs Docs: NodeJS docs
YouTube Tutorial: Node JS Sangan Mukherjee

Thanks for reading. If you’ve been through something similar or have advice for someone like me, feel free to drop a comment — and if you're in the same boat and want to chat, just DM me! Always happy to connect.

The beauty of IIT bombay techfest website

Aman Pandey — Tue, 21 Jan 2025 12:25:30 +0000

Hello there!

While searching for techfests nearby, I came across IIT Bombay's Techfest website (https://techfest.org/), and I was absolutely blown away by how amazing it looks! As someone who has been learning web development for the past eight months, I’ve now set a new goal for myself: to design and clone a website like that.

Although this might seem easy for experienced developers, it feels a bit complex for me—especially the part with the interactive 3D mouse model! But I’m excited to take it on as a challenge and learn along the way.

Right now, I’m busy with academics and focusing on Java (and a bit of TypeScript), but I’m determined to work on this and complete the clone by my birthday (12th February). It’ll be a little gift to myself and a great learning experience.

That said, I’ll give it my best shot despite having final exams in February. Fingers crossed! 😄

Thanks for reading!

My Goals For 2025

Aman Pandey — Fri, 17 Jan 2025 17:44:41 +0000

Hey everyone! 👋

I’m Aman Pandey, and this is my first post here! I wanted to share my goals for 2025 and document my learning journey as a developer. I hope this post keeps me accountable and maybe even inspires others who are on a similar path.

🚀 My Learning Goals for 2025
Master TypeScript: My top priority is to finish learning TypeScript and build a small project with it to solidify my understanding.
Explore Full-Stack Development: I plan to create projects using various tech stacks like MERN, MEAN, and MEVN to gain hands-on experience with different frameworks and tools.
Web Development Experience: I'll be participating in local hackathons and offering free web development services for local businesses to get practical, real-world experience.

🌟 Contributing to Open Source
I’ve recently developed an interest in open source and plan to start contributing to projects I’ve personally used and admire—like Next.js. If you have suggestions for beginner-friendly open-source projects, I’d love to hear them!

📚 Expanding My Skills (C++ & DSA)
In addition to web development, I’ll be learning C++ alongside Java and DSA (Data Structures & Algorithms) to strengthen my core programming skills.

🎯 Long-Term Vision (2026 and Beyond)
If I can stay consistent with these goals throughout 2025, I aim to start freelancing in 2026—initially offering free services to build a solid portfolio and professional experience.

I know these goals might seem simple for some or overwhelming for others, but they feel like the right balance for where I am right now. I’m committed to giving my best and growing as much as I can this year.

Thank you for reading my first post! If you’ve been on a similar journey or have any advice, I’d love to hear from you in the comments. Let’s grow together! 🚀

- Aman Pandey