How to Learn Scala

Some people say that Scala is the Next Big Thing thanks to its features like supporting functional paradigm, short syntax, running on JVM, immutability and data science adoption. If you still haven't decided if it is worth learning Scala I encourage you to read this article. In the one below, we will help you decide on how to approach the Scala learning process.

Learn syntax

As you might have heard Scala's syntax is different from Java. That allows you to be much more productive while writing less boilerplate code. It is not a secret that before you go deeper into the language you need to own its basic structures.

Learn Functional Programming

Scala has a big advantage thanks to acquiring FP approach into the language. What is FP, how to use it, why you should use that - all these and other questions need to be answered by you. Why? Because every Scala project uses some FP concepts and you won't be able to understand programs that are written in Scala.

Decide why you want to learn Scala

It is very important to get the right tool for the job. Scala might be used for many purposes. Depending on your needs you will have to learn different concepts or libraries. If you want to use Scala for some FP you need to learn cats, if you want to use Scala for web development you will need to learn about Akka or tapir but if you want to check how to write an ML model in Scala then go and check how to use Spark's API.

Build your application or join open-source coding

It is a great habit to code every day. As a software developer, you will have to learn new things. The best way to do that is practice. To make it a little bit nicer you might think of your application that would solve the problem you have. It may be some home automation, it may be a clone of an existing application or any other idea that comes to your mind. It does not matter. What matters is that you spend time coding as much as you can. Learning by doing is the best way to remember how to do things in any programming language. If you don't want to implement your idea or want to get some code review on your work you might join an open-source project. Check out some open sources issues on our platform.

Be consistent

Being consistent is one of the most problematic things for wannabe developers. Doing a little bit day after day will bring great value. In science, it is known as a compound effect. Try to read one page about Scala or code one line with Scala every single day. You won't notice when you will start feeling a confidant with that tool.

Set your goals

How to measure your progress? Set your goals. To keep yourself motivated you should put some ie. monthly goals and try to achieve them. It will help you to check whether you are moving forward or not. Also will be a great way to see how much you can do in Scala after learning a new concept. Attend workshops, meetups and conferences When you will start feeling good with Scala try to attend some workshops in your neighbourhood or remotely. Also, I encourage you to watch some Scala conferences or meetups. Start following Scala stars on Twitter or check any new concept in the functional or Scala world.

Sum up

Now you have possessed a powerful tool. If you need more resources check this article. You will find listed tutorials, books and courses. I cannot guarantee that if you pass these steps you will be a great programmer but what I can promise is that your Scala knowledge will increase a lot. You will be able to solve problems and apply for a Scala Developer position.

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