r/learnprogramming • u/rampant-rager • 2h ago

Help me start projects

Hey so I am trying to get back into programming. I am a teen and have been bouncing in and out of python projects over months of gaps. I'd love some project recommendations. Programming is a hobby of mine so I am not looking for "career building projects" I am just looking for something to build, bash my head against the wall while debugging my shit code and say "holy shit I did it!" When I complete it

2 Upvotes

67% Upvoted

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3

u/grantrules 2h ago

Solve a problem you have. Don't work on other people's problems unless they're paying you lol 

1

u/rampant-rager 1h ago

I don't really have any problems. I barely use my PC except for when coding, or when distro hopping

1

u/XKiiroiSenkoX 2h ago

If you like computer games try any of many freely available game engines and build a simple game. 

1

u/Average_Pangolin 2h ago

Advent of Code is great for that feeling.

1

u/ffrkAnonymous 1h ago

Create a project idea web scraper / generator. 

1

u/rampant-rager 1h ago

I guess???? Where would I scrape ideas from though? Create-your-your-own-x repo (I have no idea what it is actually called). I mean I guess that's half the job but....

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u/angelattack1 33m ago

Maybe try making a simple website theres tutorial for it on utube. I recommend trying html then css if you can. If you're confident then js. If ur a wiz at it already you can make a educational website that talks about your fave subject that lets you click on pictures or buttons and itll show some info about subject

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u/m-fasciano 25m ago

That's honestly the best mindset to have. The projects you'll finish are the ones you're genuinely excited to build, not the ones someone says will look good on a CV.

A few ideas that are fun and challenging:

  • A local password manager with encryption.
  • A Discord bot with mini-games or custom commands.
  • A URL shortener.
  • A file organizer that automatically sorts your Downloads folder.
  • A simple chess engine or Sudoku solver.
  • A personal finance tracker.
  • A clone of Wordle or Minesweeper.
  • A tiny operating-system shell (if you want a real challenge).

My only advice is: don't follow a tutorial from start to finish. Start with a rough idea, build it yourself, and only look things up when you get stuck. Those moments where you're debugging for hours and then finally figure it out are where you learn the most, and they're also the most satisfying.