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Discussion on: Stop Memorizing Code

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joolsmcfly profile image
Julien Dephix

Programming is indeed is a sum of many concepts and you’re going to be a better programmer if you understand them.

Sure, you don’t need to memorise all functions of a given programming language since you’re unlikely to use them all. However, knowing string/array manipulation functions will make you more productive. Just remember function names first and let your IDE give you parameter hints.

I read a quote a while ago and it goes like “we don’t remember data but where to find the data”. That’s too bad, our brain is great, train it!

Same goes for 45*67. You can absolutely do it without a calculator: do 45*70 and substract 45 3 times, all in your head. Not so hard with practice.
Look up Art Benjamin on YouTube, he calls himself a mathemagician, his TED talk is great.

Conclusion: you can remember more than you think. ;)

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jonrandy profile image
Jon Randy 🎖️ • Edited

I thinking the 'knowing' of such functions comes not through conscious memorizing, but rather from 'muscle memory' due to repeated use. I've never made a deliberate effort to memorise any such information.

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joolsmcfly profile image
Julien Dephix

Repetition helps for sure. Combine that with deliberate memorisation (if you are willing to) and you will know a language more quickly. It’s how I like to learn, others will have different ways.