The Best Advice to Prepare for Coding Bootcamp

TLDR: Preparing for a coding bootcamp requires focus, dedication, and the right resources. Follow actionable tips from Veterans and military spouses who successfully transitioned to tech using tools like Code Platoon’s free Intro to Coding LIVE course, free online resources, and consistent coding practice.

If you’re considering a coding bootcamp but aren’t sure where to start, you’re not alone. Many beginners feel overwhelmed at first, but with the right strategies, you can confidently prepare to apply to a coding bootcamp or another technical training program. 

We asked five Code Platoon alumni to share how they went from zero coding experience to thriving in their software engineering careers. Their advice and coding resources will help you build confidence, master the basics, and make the most of your coding journey.

1. Immerse Yourself in Learning (Even on a Tight Deadline)

Alisha, an Army Veteran and Scrum Master at BTI360, discovered Code Platoon just ten days before her cohort’s application deadline. With no prior programming experience, she immersed herself in JavaScript and committed to a crash course in coding.

I inundated myself in JavaScript completely for ten days. Like learning a foreign language, immersion pays off for coding.

• Start with Code Platoon’s Intro to Coding course: This free, self-paced course builds basic coding skills.
• Use freeCodeCamp for extra practice: The JavaScript for Beginners course provides hundreds of practice coding exercises.
• Start as early as possible: More time to prepare means less stress before application deadlines.

2. Use Online Resources

Zachary, a Marine Corps Veteran and Software Engineer at Affirm, started learning to code while stationed in South Korea. Juggling a busy schedule, he used online resources to make it work.

I went through Intro to Coding to build my basic programming skills. Then, I worked with a virtual tutor before heading to my base in the mornings. At night, I’d review what we worked on with an eBook if I needed extra practice.

• Use free online resources: Tools like Eloquent JavaScript and Code Platoon’s Intro to Coding are excellent starting points.
• Find a mentor: A virtual tutor can break down tricky concepts and help you stay accountable.
• Take it step by step: Tackle coding one day at a time to make steady progress.

3. Stay Consistent and Committed

Being consistent is the key to success in tech, according to Kayla, a military spouse and software engineer.

Dedication over motivation. It’s about building habits and staying consistent, even when things get tough. The more consistent you are, the easier it gets.

• Start with The Odin Project: This online course helped her visualize coding concepts in action.
• Use Stack Overflow for Help: This programming community offers quick explanations to technical questions.
• Commit to steady progress: Even coding for an hour daily can help you build momentum.

4. Master the Basics First

Making sure that you completely master the basics before moving on to advanced material is what Charles, a Marine Corps Veteran, Code Platoon mentor, and Software Delivery Lead at 8th Light, tells new coders.

Understanding how the building blocks of code fit together is essential. Syntax is easy to look up, but knowing when and how to use coding concepts is what makes you a software engineer.

• Focus on the fundamentals. Spend time mastering loops, functions, and conditionals before moving on.
• Practice coding exercises: Build confidence by applying your learning to real-world problems.

5. Get Hands-on Experience

If you’re struggling to get started, Code Platoon’s Intro to Coding LIVE course provides a structured, beginner-friendly introduction to coding with Python. This three-week, live online course combines foundational coding instruction with practice coding exercises to apply what you learned.

Neka, a military spouse and Microsoft Leap software engineer, says that Intro to Coding LIVE gave her the boost she needed to succeed.

Intro to Coding LIVE taught me the basics and proved to me that I could make it in tech.

• Learn by doing: Gain hands-on experience with coding exercises as part of Intro to Coding LIVE.
• Get real-time support: Work with the live instructors to answer questions and guide your learning.
• Streamline your enrollment: The program helps you prepare for enrollment in a technical training program. Learn how to apply to Code Platoon, use your VA benefits and scholarships, and meet SkillBridge requirements to join a coding bootcamp like Code Platoon.

Key Takeaways: How to Prepare for Coding Bootcamp

1. Start with a beginner-friendly course. Code Platoon’s free Intro to Coding course is a great starting point for those with little to no coding experience.
2. Use online resources. To reinforce your learning, explore tools like The Odin Project, Eloquent JavaScript, and freeCodeCamp.
3. Practice daily: Build consistency by coding every day, even if only for a short time.
4. Find a mentor or tutor: A mentor can clarify concepts, provide accountability, and help you overcome challenges.
5. Focus on understanding concepts: Learn how coding concepts fit together instead of just memorizing syntax.
6. Join Intro to Coding LIVE: Take advantage of structured, hands-on learning to help you succeed.

Your Path to Success Starts Now

Preparing for coding bootcamp can be a big step, but with the advice from these Veterans and military spouses, you’ll be ready to tackle the challenge. You’ve got this!