How can I get better at Java programming? Please help.?

Question

This is my second time taking IT 106, introduction to IT problem solving which is essentially java programming, which is a requirement for my IT major. I'm definitely not going to be a programmer, but I still need this class. I failed the first time due to a complete lack of effort and confusion. This time, its going down hill again, i have 2 weeks left, but I still have a chance to pass if I do well on the exam...

To be honest, I completely suck at java. I understand the concepts and pseudocode, but when it comes to structuring a modular, meaning multiple method program, I am completely lost even in the pseudocode, let alone the java coding.

We also program using input and output via JOptionPane, which I hear is supposed to make things easier, but I dont know. My main weak points are METHODS AND ARRAYS, but those are the most important things to know for my final exam. I also suck at structuring these and connecting the methods and variables. My final exam is 10 multiple choice, which is usually easy for me, but then its 1 pseudocode, 1 smaller program, and 1 big program... The program part is over 50% of the exam, so obviously that must be my focal point....

So basically, how can I get better at java programming in 3 weeks time. Please give me some advice and tips, I really don't want to waste another 1500, and I understand its not your responsibility or problem, but mine, but still, I really need help in this class. So thank you I appreciate it.

Answer 1

I would offer to help, but I actually have no experience whatsoever with Java Swing. I tend to deal with console programs because they can talk to each other which makes them more useful.



Swing is superficially easier, but it doesn't teach you important things like handling streams and your programs won't be able to inter-communicate.



If you're willing to take my help, I'll teach you good ways to divide programs into smaller filters that can be combined into new programs using scripts. Modularity and more importantly usability are very important to me. It seems however, that you should've taken a course on procedural programming since this is really the part that's giving you trouble :/ Object oriented programming builds on top of that, and that's what Java is. And so may filter programming.



As for arrays, you may usually find yourself actually working with iterators and/or collections, but it does help to know how to use arrays because collections build on top of those. An array is not too difficult to understand. It has a length, and a bunch of elements accessible by an index that starts at 0.



Anyway, please email me if you're interested :)

Answer 2

Beginning Programming With Java For Dummies, 2nd Edition. It's an easyread and will get you going pretty quickly.

Answer 3

You'll never pass a programming class if your avatar is Wu-Tang clan.

Answer 4

Drink some more java.

Answer 5

Join the boyscouts they have programing badges.....unless you're gay then you're not welcome.