How to Check If You Want and Can Become a Programmer — What Programming Really Is

What Kind of Calling Is Programming?

I believe programming is somewhat like a calling for a doctor. Maybe that sounds dramatic, but the best programmers I’ve known often showed early signs: curiosity about computers, fascination with how things work. Back in the day, many started with hacking, forums, or mIRC channels. These days, interest usually begins with gaming. But if you only like games, that alone might not be enough to become a programmer.

Is Programming Just Algorithms?
To someone unfamiliar, programming might seem like just following steps or letting the machine (or AI) do the work. But there’s much more to it.

A true programmer needs to understand both the technical side (how bits are handled by hardware, for example) and be able to transform ideas, logic, and algorithms into functional software — into source code.

Writing code is kind of like problem solving in math or physics, or like writing a book: you must express ideas clearly, concisely, well. Some compare programming to craftsmanship, sculpture, or painting — forming something coherent and beautiful in logic and structure.

Is Programming a Craft?
Yes. As with any good craft, longevity and maintainability of the system matter. To build software that is maintainable, extensible, and easy to evolve, you need to care about many small details — naming of variables and methods, formatting, structure, consistency.

Senior programmers often notice things like improperly named variables, inconsistent spacing, or messy logic and will emphasize getting these right. All of that leads to coding standards and best practices.

Is Programming Creative?
Absolutely. Every problem and algorithm can be solved in many different ways. Designing system architecture — what classes or entities are needed, how data is structured — requires creativity.

You also need to think about performance (fast queries, efficient operations), user expectations (how interface feels, responsiveness), usability across devices, etc. Even within a team, you might brainstorm together: which design patterns to use, which approach will serve not only current needs but future ones too.

What to Consider Before You Decide to Become a Programmer
Here are traits and attitudes that are helpful — maybe essential — if you want to succeed:

• Lifelong learning: The tech world changes fast. What’s current now may be outdated in a couple of years. Good programmers stay curious and keep improving.
• Attention to detail & craftsmanship: Being someone who cares about clean code, structure, consistency.
• Logical & mathematical thinking: Being able to solve complex problems, see logical relationships, working through abstract ideas.
• Independence & problem-solving skills: Even with guidance, you’ll often need to figure things out on your own.
• Creativity & thinking outside the box: For difficult tasks, the ability to find unexpected or novel solutions is very valuable.
• Communication & collaboration: Technical skill alone isn’t enough. Working in a team, discussing designs, explaining ideas, accepting feedback — these matter.

Final Questions to Ask Yourself

Before committing, consider these:

• Am I willing to keep learning throughout my life?
• Do I have some natural ability or enjoyment in solving mathematical, logical, or complex problems?
• Do I like striving for excellence and improving things — creating new products, refining them?

If the answers lean toward “yes,” then programming is likely something you can enjoy and succeed in.