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“Coding is basically just ifs and for loops.” (twitter.com)

496 points by x43b · 1750 days ago · 393 comments on HN

Article summary

The article's content is not available, but the discussion suggests it simplifies coding to basic concepts like ifs and for loops. Commenters expand on this idea, relating it to fundamental principles of computer science. The conversation touches on the essence of coding, data transformation, and Turing completeness. The discussion implies that while the basic concepts may be simple, their application and mastery are not.

Main themes

  • Simplification of coding
  • Turing completeness
  • Data transformation
  • Complexity of application
  • Simplicity vs ease
  • Fundamental principles of computer science

What commenters say

  • Coding can be reduced to simple concepts like ifs and loops, but this simplicity belies the complexity of real-world applications.
  • The fundamental principles of computer science, such as Turing completeness, underlie all coding activities.
  • Data transformation is a core aspect of coding, regardless of the specific technologies or techniques used.
  • The simplicity of basic coding concepts does not imply that coding itself is easy or straightforward.
  • Some argue that coding is more about understanding how to manipulate and transform data than about specific syntax or technologies.
  • Others suggest that the simplicity of coding's basic concepts is analogous to other complex activities, like marathon running or strength training, where the basic actions are simple but the execution is challenging.
  • The relationship between simplicity and ease is a recurring theme, with many commenters distinguishing between the two.
  • The conversation also touches on the idea that all coding can be reduced to very basic operations, such as mov or NAND gates.