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Web Dev · by Urban Baker · 2026-09-03

How do you get better at backend without burning out on a budget?

I started this because my winter felt a little stuck, and javascript seemed like a manageable place to experiment. The funny part is that the smallest change was the one I kept.

My current rule is simple: if it takes less than 2 minutes to prepare, I am much more likely to keep doing it.

I started this because my late summer felt a little stuck, and ux seemed like a manageable place to experiment. The funny part is that the smallest change was the one I kept.

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Mango Coder · 2 likes

Start by reducing it to the smallest reproducible piece, then change one variable at a time. Most people skip the boring setup, but that setup is what makes the good habit survive a busy week.

- Write down the exact error and the input that caused it.
- Make a tiny example, then add pieces back slowly.
- Keep the final fix boring and well-named.

Source: mostly hard-won experience and comparing notes with people who stuck with it.