Coding: Does it still make sense to learn how to code?

Yes, it still makes sense, but the “how” and “what” are changing. The idea of AI stealing our jobs is a bit overblown, for now. Instead, it's forcing us to evolve.

Bots can write lines of code at an impressive speed, that's true. They can generate functions, scripts, and even entire applications. But there's a catch: they need someone to tell them what to do and why.

Roberto Butti, an author on dev.to, highlighted in his article that AI is transforming programming, not destroying it. Repetitive work moves to machines, strategic thinking remains human. This frees up time for more complex and creative tasks.

Key skills are no longer about memorizing endless syntax. Now, logic, problem-solving, and the ability to understand how a system works as a whole are essential. In short, your brain, not just your fingers.

Imagine being an architect: you don't lay every single brick, but you need to know where each wall goes. Similarly, a modern programmer must design solutions and debug the AI's “brain” when it makes mistakes.

The ability to break down a big problem into small pieces, solve them, and then put them back together is a superpower. AI is excellent at execution, but terrible at defining the problem or judging solution quality without expert guidance.

Think of AI as a super-efficient assistant, not a boss who fires you. It will help you write faster, find errors, and experiment with ideas. But the direction, that's still yours.

In 2023, several studies showed that developers using AI tools like GitHub Copilot increase their productivity by over 50% on specific tasks. This means more time for innovation.

So, instead of fearing AI, let's learn to use it. Those who understand programming fundamentals will always have an advantage, because they'll know how to guide AI, not be guided by it. It's not a video game where you win by pressing a random button.