How ChatGPT helped me become a better programmer

Introduction
As a diesel technician, my days were spent diagnosing and repairing complex engines — a skill I took pride in. But over time, I started craving something different: a career with endless learning possibilities and unlimited growth. At 31, I decided it was time for a change.

I had no experience coding, but the idea of creating something from scratch, solving intricate problems, and diving into a field with infinite possibilities was thrilling. Initially, I didn’t know where to start. Then, a friend introduced me to ChatGPT. They were learning React — a programming language I didn’t understand at the time — and showed me how they used ChatGPT to navigate challenges.

Little did I know, this AI would become my virtual mentor. Over time, it transformed my learning experience, helping me shift from turning wrenches to typing code.

The Transition: From Tools to Tech
Working as a diesel technician taught me invaluable skills: patience, attention to detail, and methodical thinking. These skills unexpectedly aligned with coding. Diagnosing an engine and debugging code have striking similarities — both require breaking down problems into manageable parts and finding effective solutions.

The difference? While mechanical work is finite, coding is boundless. I could build apps, automate tasks, or dive into artificial intelligence. This potential ignited my curiosity, and I was ready to learn — but I needed guidance.

How ChatGPT Became My Guide
When I started, I didn’t even know how to ask the right questions about coding. But through trial, error, and a bit of persistence, I crafted prompts that made ChatGPT an incredible teacher. Here are a few that transformed my learning process:

Building Syntax Knowledge One Line at a Time

• Prompt:
  “You are an AI teacher tasked with guiding me through the syntax of a programming language. Provide code one line at a time, explain it thoroughly, and ask if I understand before moving forward.”
• Impact:
  This method felt approachable, especially as a beginner. By learning one line at a time, I could focus on the purpose and syntax of each part before moving on — mirroring the step-by-step process I used in engine diagnostics.

Mastering Data Structures with Context

• Prompt:
  “Explain why we’re using certain data structures, like dictionaries or lists, and suggest alternative ways to achieve the same result. Break down their purpose in detail.”
• Impact:
  This prompt was a game-changer. Understanding data structures felt overwhelming at first, but these explanations made them relatable. Choosing the right data structure started to feel like selecting the perfect tool for a repair job.

Labs with Gradual Complexity

• Prompt:
  “Create 7 labs, starting simple and gradually increasing in difficulty. Walk me through each solution step-by-step, asking if I understand before moving forward.”
• Impact:
  This structured approach gave me confidence. Each lab built on the last, creating a clear learning progression. It reminded me of moving from basic repairs to more advanced diagnostic challenges in the workshop.

1. Encouraging Hands-On Learning

• Prompt:
  “Guide me through typing each line of code, specifying where to place it. Correct my mistakes and explain why the code is written this way. Always check if I understand before moving forward.”
• Impact:
  Typing each line myself, with ChatGPT’s guidance, reinforced my understanding and helped me debug issues independently.

Why This Method Worked

• Personalized Learning: These prompts catered to my pace and knowledge level.
• Encouraging Feedback: ChatGPT provided positive reinforcement while gently correcting mistakes.
• Concept Reinforcement: Repetition and gradual progression made abstract ideas concrete.

Conclusion: A Journey Fueled by Curiosity
When I started learning to code, I didn’t even know ChatGPT existed. Now, with its help, I’ve gone from someone who didn’t understand programming languages to someone who enjoys solving coding challenges.

Switching careers at 31 was intimidating, but this leap has been the most rewarding decision of my life. If you’re a mechanic — or anyone in a hands-on profession — considering coding, know this: the skills you’ve built in your current job are more transferable than you think.

With the right tools, mindset, and guidance, your growth opportunities are truly unlimited.