Need guidance
Posted by Strange_Yogurt1049@reddit | learnprogramming | View on Reddit | 7 comments
i picked up HTML/CSS a month ago.
and have succesfully built a Youtube Clone from memory.
Over time I realised:
i can copy certain layouts (statics)
but cant design from scratch.
so, is it like "keep building and practicing?" or "Learn desigining with coding side by side?"
i mean...now I am like "I wanna build something and not just copy".
alphadester@reddit
both honestly, but id lean towards learning design fundamentals alongside coding
being able to copy layouts is a skill, dont dismiss it. but u hit the right wall, copying without understanding the "why" means u cant create anything new
check out kevin powells youtube channel specifically his design for devs videos, and also look into basic design principles (spacing, alignment, typography, color). u dont need to become a designer but understanding those basics completely unlocks ur ability to build from scratch
also try this: start with a blank page and just design in browser with html/css without copying anything, even if it looks bad. that muscle builds fast 🙂
EfficientMongoose317@reddit
This is a normal phase. Copying is how most people start designing from scratch, which is a different skill, it comes from understanding patterns, not just writing code
A good way to bridge it is to not copy exactly, copy and then change things
tweak layout, spacing, colours, add or remove sections
Also, try rebuilding simple ideas without looking at references
Even if it looks bad, that’s where you actually learn
Over time, you’ll stop copying and start creating naturally
BNfreelance@reddit
Designing from scratch is the same as copying a static layout except you picture it in your mind first, and use other visuals as references to get inspiration from
You can do it, you’re probably just hesitant because you don’t have much experience of trying - but truth be told if you can knock up the YouTube homepage just by looking and then writing your own code, you’re pretty much ready to start building your own layouts
The more you mess around the easier it gets
Start with simple wireframes and then work up from there, you’ll learn the small visual fine tuning that suits your style over time
the-Night-Mayor@reddit
Ok so you copied the layout of a YouTube screenshot from memory? That’s a good start for css/html basics. Long way to go. I learned css, vanilla js, and html in about 3 months when I started. I used the Odin project primarily, it’s a good resource!
Ok_Assistant_2155@reddit
that feeling of “I wanna build my own thing” is a good sign
means you’re moving past beginner stage
just don’t rush it too much
mer063@reddit
You built YouTube clone? After 1 month of html classes? From what memory? What are you talking about? Just the layout?
Strange_Yogurt1049@reddit (OP)
I meant the layout.
HTML and CSS.
The header Side bar and the grid layout.