The developer learning curve

The following graph shows the standard learning curve. This was generated by a big data analysis algorithm that analyzed the learning patterns of individuals in a number of industries. The curve is smooth because it takes the average learning process and averages the process.

Later in this chapter, we'll take a look at what a learning curve looks like for a single person. Over the years I've had the privilege of teaching students how to become developers. I've witnessed this learning curve play out again and again. And in this chapter, I want to examine the three stages that all developers go through. Additionally, I'll discuss about how long it takes to traverse from one stage to another. The three stages that I'll discuss are:

• Liftoff
• The twilight zone
• The zone