I include number 2 because it is a phrase I use on me.
You have my sympathy, because of the been there, done that situation. The "Shut up and program" comes from the need to solve writers block.
So if I understand you correctly, you are now at a point where you feel your skills are adequately honed to take a bite out of something important, and are seeking something important to sink your teeth into.
Remember - done before by better folks doesn't mean it can't be done better by you.
So, now all we need to have is a problem that has enough importance to warrent the effort to :apply all the theory, not give up on the hard parts, while convincing self that it IS worth the effort to continue, even though no one is knocking down my door to have me solve the problem. That is a tough one, but perhaps the following list may light a fire under you and get you going like you want to be! Some of the following may require thinking beyond programming alone, but hey, that's half the fun.
1) write a program that will guide a self propelled vacuum cleaner over a floor, and return it to it's starting point to recharge. - now add furniture, how about cats, and dogs, people etc.
2) Design a 2 person game to work over the web (perhaps chess) - not as easy as you think
3) As suggested above, Life is a fun game to write
4) What is the highest prime number you can make your system calculate?
5) Design a routing system that will allow an ambulace to get from point a to point b in the least amount of time. Add speed limit constraints, traffic considderations, and weather conditions.
6) develop a G-code editor with limited options for the user. (look up nummieric controllers, see Machining tools)
7) How would you make a cell phone network most efficient and least expensive?
8) Program an alarm monitoring system. Select inputs, decide who to call, etc. Protect your house.
9) Look into AI, how sould you simulate a human way of thinking? Can you program something to extend the program's experience. How many input types can you accept,evaluate and store?
10)Write a program to parse a text version of the bible for searching and evaluating. (look at project gutenberg).
11) Write an english question parser. Apply the question to a database and return results.
12)Wite a program to evaluate a stock based upon various stock information as well as market indicators
13) Write a web site on your favorite topic, now rewrite it to teach people as much as you know about that topic. Create tracks for the novice, talented and expert. Allow for experts to make additions.
14) Write a program to compare as many methods of conveyance from point a to point b. Include Air, bus, and tarain options.
There are endless opportunities, pick one that appeals to you. Have fun, learn a bit, and you may find while doing some research that there is a market for what you developed.
Good luck!
dageek
ps - don't be surprised if a few more ideas crop up
In reply to Re: Learning by Doing
by johndageek
in thread Learning by Doing
by jweed
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