More than 10 years ago Andrew Hunt and David Thomas published a book called, The Pragmatic Programmer: From Journeyman to Master. 

I came across it again a few months ago when I emptied my bookcase at work.  I thought that it would be a good chance to re-read the book and blog about it.  Eleven years ago I was programming in a different language, using different tools, and using a different methodology.  I am also a consultant now instead of a full-time employee so my perspective has changed some.

The forward by Ward Cunningham concludes:

So here it is: an easy to read–-and use-–book about the whole practice of programming.  I’ve gone on and on about why it works.  You probably only care that it does work. It does. You will see.

In the Preface, the authors promise that this book will help to make you a better programmer by helping you become more effective and productive.  They argue that programming is not just a job, but a craft. 

When I think of craftsmen, I often think of my carpenter ancestors who used tools, knowledge, and experience to construct projects.  They used their hands to make things.  So do I.  Instead of hammer and saw, I use keyboard and mouse. I use experience from past projects or gleaned from conversations with others or blog posts.  I gain knowledge by reading books and blogs and tweets, watching presentations, following tutorials, and attending conferences.

This book takes a “hands on”, doing approach.  It is not idealistic.  It is practical and sensible.  In one word, it is pragmatic.

In this blog series, each week I will present a challenge based on a tip or topic from the book.  I will do the challenges myself but also ask you to do them as well.  It seems the pragmatic thing to do after all.  If you have a blog (or are thinking about starting one) then blog about your experience with each of these challenges.  Otherwise, the comments section is always open.

Take the challenge and see if this time next year you are not a more pragmatic, productive programmer.  I dare you.

But first, if you don’t own The Pragmatic Programmer then purchase a paperback or digital copy:

• Amazon
• The Pragmatic Bookshelf