The Joy of Aeroplane Mode Programming
a year ago
- #Focus
- #RetroComputing
- #Programming
- The author reflects on returning to basics with 'Aeroplane Mode Programming'—just a computer, a book, and no internet.
- Recalls learning to program on an Atari ST with only BASIC and a manual, similar to his experience with a Psion Series 3a.
- Discovered a Psion Series 3a in a charity shop, fixed it, and explored its built-in OPL programming language.
- Decided to create a Wordle clone for the Psion, using only the device's manual and no internet.
- Highlights the simplicity and focus of programming with a book, avoiding online distractions and conflicting opinions.
- Critiques the inefficiencies of online learning: multiple solutions, rabbit holes, and AI hallucinations.
- Advocates for physical programming books over e-books for better reference and maintaining a flow state.
- Successfully wrote a Wordle clone in OPL in a few days, proving the effectiveness of this method.
- Plans to buy a book on Go to continue this offline learning approach.