Comparing Coding and Computer Science

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If you’re interested in a career in technology, chances are you have run across many different terms that describe similar-sounding fields. Computer science and coding are sometimes used interchangeably to describe programming, or writing computer software. But they actually describe two different disciplines within the technology world.

What are the differences between computer science and coding? How are they similar? And if you’re interested in a career in programming or software development, which should you focus on? We’ll answer these questions in this article.


★ What Are the Career Differences Between Coding and Computer Science?

Those who study computer science or coding have many career opportunities throughout the technology ecosystem. However, depending on experience, education, and career goals, there are different paths that are available to each one.


● Computer Science Focuses on Design

Someone with computer science training may be in a better position to take a job as a lead software engineer, lead developer, systems architect, or other job that requires a good understanding of computer system design.

Both high-level and specialized knowledge of how computers work is required to design and architect large software projects and complex systems. A computer science education would provide more training in these specific areas that would be helpful to someone who is required to design large-scale computer systems and software projects.


● Coding Focuses on Implementation

Someone who has studied coding, on the other hand, would be prepared for jobs such as developer, software engineer, QA tester, or other job that focuses on implementing a well-designed software goal.

In fact, too much of a focus on theory and design can slow down a project that needs to be implemented quickly. A coder can focus on writing good code as quickly as possible, without needing to consider the broader design implications -- that would be the job of the lead developer or lead software engineer. The coder can focus on their part of the project while being confident that the broader goal is being managed by the team lead.


● But Designers Can Implement and Implementers Can Design

Again, this isn’t meant to box anyone’s career in or limit what you can do. Many designers also love building, and builders often have a keen eye for design that can only come from hands-on experience. So no matter which path you start out on, there are plenty of opportunities to switch focus later in your career if you want to.

Many developers have made the move to software engineering, design, or management -- while still plenty of others are happy to write code while letting others worry about those things. The important thing is that you find a career that gives you satisfaction and helps you to achieve your goals.


★ Should I Study Coding or Computer Science?

If you are considering a career in software development, what’s the best way to get started? Should you focus on coding or computer science? Ultimately, the decision comes down to what your goals are and where you currently are in your learning journey. Here are a few things to consider when making your decision.


● But Designers Can Implement and Implementers Can Design

if you are primarily interested in a software development career, and aren’t as interested in the theoretical aspects of how computers work, focusing on coding first may be the right decision. After all, companies employ people who know how to code -- not just those who understand how it works but don’t have practical experience with it. Coding can help you to jump into the practical side of writing software and gain experience quickly.


● But Designers Can Implement and Implementers Can Design

On the other side of that, learning to code through practical lessons and experience only does require some extra effort to learn the principles and theory involved. At some point, you may find that you don’t have the theoretical knowledge required to move on to a higher-paying senior-level position, if that’s what you would like to do. So starting with the theory of computer science and then studying practical coding may be better for you if that is the career goal that you would like to pursue.


Whether you choose to focus on computer science or coding, you’ll be doing a lot of programming. So why not try it out first to make sure you want to continue learning?



Hope I could help you to clear your doubts. If You have still any doubts, Feel free to reach me out on prasadcomputershahada@gmail.com . Also Your suggestions are welcomed.