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Discussion on: I'm a co-founder of dev.to, ask me anything!

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Peter Kim Frank

Hey Ingrid, nice to hear from you. I think that the most immediate way you can help is by continuing to be a contributing member of the community. There's a myth that you have to be an "expert" to produce worthwhile content on dev.to. On the contrary, some of my favorite articles have been written by other #beginners who are sharing their experience and specific perspective as they work through a problem or make a breakthrough.

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Ingrid Green • Edited

Thanks for the insightful answer. That "myth" is part of Dev's reputation... and reality. Part of the reality of someone who doesn't "work" in tech is a missing value proposition. "What's in it for me?" is a question that lingers for many-- poor & wealthy alike. Since I don't feel like I have time to 'spare', like many pre-beginners, I'm not likely to 'escape' to Dev unless that question is answered. What's in it for me? Again, many thanks for the answer.

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peter profile image
Peter Kim Frank

I think a lot of specific articles on dev.to deal with addressing the pre-beginner mindset of "why should I learn to code in the first place?". That said, I think the "what's in it for me?" is mostly a personal question. I imagine it can be pure curiosity ("how does all this work?"), a profit motive ("I'll get a high-paying job once I learn these skills"), or something else entirely.

I think our platform is specifically well geared to support people at that "post-beginner" stage. There are already so many fantastic resources for people who want to learn to code; but there seems to be a dearth of friendly and inclusive communities for junior programmers who have some basics, but need help "leveling up" and finding support as they work through issues and encounter new issues and ideas.

It seems like most of the "market" is focused at the two ends: either you're brand new or you're an expert. We've been focusing more on the middle.

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Ingrid Green

Agreed on the 'dearth' and with your logic behind choosing the middle lane. I'm not a post-beginner. No matter which level I'm at, I seek community too... as opposed to being part of a trend or initiative. Thanks again for a thoughtful reply.