A 37-year-old wanting to learn computer science

Original Article ↗ Hacker News Discussion ↗

Computer Science vs. Software Development

  • Several commenters argue the OP’s goals (web apps, blogs, streaming device, education apps) are primarily software engineering, not “computer science.”
  • They stress that CS typically includes math-heavy topics (discrete math, linear algebra, algorithms, data structures), which are only indirectly related to building typical apps.
  • Others say the distinction matters mainly if you want theory or academia; for building things, programming and applied engineering skills are more relevant.

How to Learn: Projects vs. Theory

  • Strong emphasis on “learn by building”:
    • Automate personal annoyances (backups, price trackers, downloaders).
    • Start with a concrete project you care about and pick tools as needed.
  • Counterpoint: don’t skip fundamentals—data structures, algorithms, networking, databases, testing, design paradigms. MOOCs and structured curricula (OSSU, MIT OCW, SICP, HtDP) are frequently recommended.
  • Some warn against getting lost in theory if your goal is practical work; others warn against “framework bootcamps” that produce assemblers rather than designers.

Use of AI/LLMs

  • One camp: avoid AI early; if it writes code for you, you won’t actually learn. Use it later as a multiplier.
  • Another: treat AI as a “knowledgeable but fallible friend” for explanations, alternatives, and debugging, but never as an unquestioned expert.
  • A more skeptical view calls LLMs “fake experts” that lie unpredictably; useful only where errors are low-impact and supervision is strong.

Age, Jobs, and the Market

  • Many late starters (30s–40s+) report successful transitions and encourage the OP; “no age limit” is a recurring theme.
  • Others describe pervasive ageism: difficulty getting interviews, pressure to hide age, and being filtered out as “culture fit.”
  • Bootcamps are described both as a fast route that has worked for some and as predatory debt traps for others.
  • Some say a year of focused effort plus learning on the job can work; others claim breaking in at mid‑30s+ without connections is nearly impossible.

ADHD, Motivation, and Life Design

  • Commenters warn that quitting work entirely can backfire, especially with ADHD; a job provides structure.
  • Advice includes keeping some form of income, setting deadlines, having an exit plan, and guarding against distraction and paralysis from too many goals.
  • Motivation, curiosity, and “love of building” are repeatedly described as more decisive than age.