How to Start Learning Tech Skills from Scratch: A Practical Guide for Beginners
So, you’ve decided it’s time to make a change. You’re ready to dive into the world of tech, but there’s just one problem—you’re not sure where to start.
Maybe the thought of learning something completely new feels overwhelming, or you’re worried that you need a degree to get anywhere. I’ve been there. A few years ago, I didn’t have a formal education in tech, and I was working long, tiring shifts in a job that wasn’t going anywhere. But I made a change, and I did it by starting small, learning one skill at a time.
In this article, I’m going to break down how you can start learning tech skills from scratch. Whether you want to become a data analyst, software developer, or just pick up some new skills to boost your career, this guide will give you the steps you need to get started.
Step 1: Identify Your Goal
Before you start learning, it’s crucial to know where you want to go. Do you want to switch careers entirely, or are you looking to enhance your current job with new skills? Are you interested in data analysis, web development, or IT support? Knowing your end goal will help you focus your efforts and choose the right skills to learn.
Example:
When I first started, I knew I wanted to get into data analysis because I was fascinated by how data could be used to solve problems. This goal guided me in choosing which skills to focus on, like Excel and SQL.
Action Step:
Take a few minutes to think about what excites you about tech. Write down your long-term career goals or the specific skills you want to acquire.
Step 2: Choose Your First Skill to Learn
Now that you have a goal, it’s time to pick your first skill. It’s tempting to try and learn everything at once, but trust me, starting with one skill is the best way to make real progress.
For beginners, some good starting points might be:
Excel: Mastering Excel is a foundational skill for many tech roles, especially in data analysis.
Basic Coding (Python): Python is a versatile and beginner-friendly programming language.
Databases (SQL): SQL is essential for anyone interested in working with data.
Example:
I started with Excel because it’s widely used and incredibly powerful for data analysis. Once I felt comfortable with Excel, I moved on to SQL to deepen my understanding of data manipulation.
Action Step:
Pick one skill that aligns with your goal. Focus all your learning energy on this skill until you reach a level of comfort before moving on to the next.
Step 3: Find the Right Resources
You don’t need to spend a fortune on courses or books. There are plenty of free and affordable resources available online that can teach you everything you need to know.
Free Resources:
YouTube: Great for finding beginner tutorials. Look for channels that specialize in the skill you’re learning.
Coursera and Khan Academy: Offer free courses on a wide range of tech topics.
Blogs and Forums: Sites like Stack Overflow and Medium are valuable for finding solutions to specific problems and reading about best practices.
Example:
I relied heavily on YouTube when I was starting out. Channels like “freeCodeCamp” and “Khan Academy” were lifesavers. I would watch tutorials and then immediately apply what I learned through practice exercises.
Action Step:
Search for beginner-friendly tutorials or courses on your chosen skill. Bookmark these resources, and set up a learning plan to go through them step by step.
Step 4: Create a Learning Schedule
Balancing learning with a job or other commitments can be challenging, but a structured schedule can make it manageable. Consistency is key to making progress.
Tips for Creating a Schedule:
Start Small: Dedicate 30 minutes to an hour each day to learning. The key is to be consistent.
Use Downtime: If you’re working a demanding job, use any available downtime—like commuting or lunch breaks—to review material or watch tutorials.
Set Milestones: Break down your learning journey into small, achievable milestones, like completing a course module or mastering a specific function in Excel.
Example:
I would wake up an hour earlier each day to get in some study time before my shift. On my days off, I treated learning like a second job, dedicating a few hours to practice and review.
Action Step:
Create a simple weekly schedule that includes dedicated time for learning. Start small and build up as you become more comfortable.
Step 5: Apply What You Learn
Learning theory is important, but the real progress happens when you start applying what you’ve learned to real-world scenarios.
Practical Application Ideas:
Projects: Start small projects that allow you to use your new skills. For example, if you’re learning Excel, create a budget tracker or a simple data analysis project.
Challenges: Participate in online coding challenges or data analysis problems to test your skills.
Freelance or Volunteer: Look for opportunities to apply your skills in real-world situations, even if it’s just volunteering for a local nonprofit.
Example:
As I was learning SQL, I set up small projects like analyzing public datasets or creating simple databases. This hands-on practice was crucial for solidifying my understanding and building confidence.
Action Step:
Identify a small project or challenge related to your chosen skill. Start working on it, applying the concepts you’ve learned, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes—this is how you learn.
Step 6: Stay Motivated and Track Progress
It’s normal to feel frustrated or overwhelmed at times. The key is to stay motivated and keep track of your progress so you can see how far you’ve come.
Staying Motivated:
Join Communities: Surround yourself with like-minded learners by joining online forums or groups. Sharing your journey with others can be incredibly motivating.
Celebrate Wins: No matter how small, celebrate every milestone. This could be completing a tutorial, solving a challenging problem, or finishing a project.
Keep a Learning Journal: Document your progress, challenges, and what you’ve learned along the way. This will help you reflect on your journey and stay focused.
Example:
I kept a simple notebook where I tracked what I learned each week and noted down any challenges I faced. Looking back at these notes was a great way to stay motivated, especially on tough days.
Action Step:
Start a learning journal or use a digital tool to track your progress. Join an online community where you can share your journey and get support from others.
Conclusion:
Starting to learn tech skills from scratch can feel daunting, but remember, every expert was once a beginner. The key is to take that first step, stay consistent, and be patient with yourself. You don’t need to have all the answers right away; you just need to keep moving forward.
If you’re ready to take your learning to the next level, consider joining our community on Skool. Here, you’ll find support, resources, and a group of like-minded individuals who are on the same journey as you. Together, we can make your career transformation a reality.
By following these steps, you’ll not only start building valuable tech skills but also set yourself on a path to a more fulfilling and dynamic career. Remember, the journey might be challenging, but with the right mindset and resources, you can achieve your goals.
Let’s get started!