Unconventional paths to technical learning
“From Zero to WoW” is a personal series documenting progressive learning across multiple programming languages and operating environments. It’s not a traditional tutorial or a linear course. I chose to skip the usual “Hello World” and instead begin with small, useful tools and reflections on how learning a language can improve everyday life.
Each path is designed for those who prefer to learn by doing, with dignity and autonomy. The chapters are concise, practical, and accompanied by working code and essential explanations. You won’t find shortcuts—only a clear track for building competence through experience.
Languages and environments
JavaScript – Shopping List App
An interactive app built step by step, from a simple list to a full-featured system with local storage and dynamic behavior.
- Build your first interactive app (shopping list) – You are here!
- Add a “Remove” button to each item
- Separate HTML and JavaScript, use addEventListener
- Add dynamic CSS classes (e.g., mark items as complete)
- Save your list in the browser with localStorage
- Turn the app into a full-featured to-do list
Python – Mini To-Do Console App
A terminal-based app that evolves from basic input to file management, with conditional logic and interactive menus.
- Variables, Input & Logic – You are here
- Lists & Loops
- Conditional Menus
- Edit & Remove Tasks
- Save to File
- Final Project Polishing
Rust – BMI Calculator
A minimal project exploring precision, error handling, and formatted output as a form of respect.
- Why Rust for something so simple?
- User input: validation and error handling
- BMI calculation and conditional logic
- Clear, formatted output
- Final thoughts: precision as a form of respect
Go – Personal Expense Tracker
A small tool to track expenses, filter data, and save files, built with simple and functional architecture.
- Why Go for a personal tracker?
- Logging expenses and console input
- Smart filtering and display logic
- Saving data to local files
- Conclusion: simplicity that improves life
C++ – File Organizer
A project to sort files into folders, detect types, and move them safely—an exercise in mental clarity.
- Why C++ for file organization?
- File type detection and classification
- Creating and managing subfolders
- Safe file movement and user feedback
- Final thoughts: order as mental clarity
Ubuntu – Essentials & Beyond
A journey through Ubuntu, from desktop basics to server configuration, including scripting, security, and maintenance.
- What Ubuntu is and how to install it ✅
- The desktop environment and essential commands
- Managing files, folders, and permissions
- Installing and updating software with APT and Snap
- Customizing the desktop environment
- Network and device configuration
- User management and system security
- Using the terminal and writing basic Bash scripts
- Ubuntu as a server or development environment
- Backup, maintenance, and troubleshooting
