I work as a Java programmer, but C and C++ were always my favourite languages du
ID: 653180 • Letter: I
Question
I work as a Java programmer, but C and C++ were always my favourite languages during studies. Unfortunatelly I don't have an opportunity to work with them as often as I would like to. As a result I sometimes get realized that I don't remember something quite important (today example: inherited protected members cannot be accessed in derived class constructors). The other example could be Python and Haskell which I enjoy using but don't use everyday. I got an idea to write my own wiki with easy to forget things (e.g. bash tricks & tips) but I find no sense in writing there everything I can forget about coolest programming languages. I know that the best way would be having a side projects (I want to start working on some C/C++ open source project after graduation), but currently I have to write my graduation thesis and work so I merely don't have time to do this. How do you stay sharp in languages that you don't use everyday?
Explanation / Answer
How do I stay sharp in languages I don't use every day?
For me, the answer is "I don't". I've used perhaps a dozen languages professionally for relatively substantial projects, yet at any one time I only count myself proficient in maybe two, with maybe a third where I can use the language with a little extra effort.
Given an opportunity, I'm certain I could once again become proficient in FORTRAN or PERL or C or AWK or any of several other languages when the need arises. At any given time I only care about what I'm using at that moment.
Don't try to become "a Haskell programmer" or "a java programmer". Instead, focus on being just a really good programmer. Eventually you'll come to realize that languages are just syntax, and the real skill and joy in programming comes not from being proficient in one particular language, but being able to craft something useful in whatever language is appropriate at the time.