Discovering discovery coding (Changelog & Friends #80)

10 snips

Feb 14, 2025

Jimmy Miller, a talented software developer and writer, shares his fascinating insights on discovery coding—a spontaneous approach to programming. He discusses the advantages of engaging with real code and addressing immediate issues, contrasting it with traditional methods. The conversation also touches on the evolution of AI in software development, emphasizing tools like Augment Code. Miller reflects on navigating coding complexities and the art of personal annotations, highlighting how these practices enhance creativity and understanding in coding workflows.

Ask episode

AI Snips

Chapters

Books

Transcript

Episode notes

ANECDOTE

Grandma Discovers Wikipedia

Jerod Santo's wife's grandmother recently got a smartphone and discovered Wikipedia.
She was amazed by the information available and now fact-checks everyone with it.

ANECDOTE

Design Doc vs. Coding

Jimmy Miller was asked to write a design document for a complex problem with four potential solutions.
While prototyping the chosen solution, he realized it was flawed and discovered a better approach through coding.

INSIGHT

Adaptability of Discovery Coding

Outliners often stick to their initial plan, even if flawed, while discovery coders adapt.
Discovery coding allows the code to guide the solution, especially in complex systems.

Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode

Get the app

Atomic Habits

James Clear

Atomic Habits by James Clear provides a practical and scientifically-backed guide to forming good habits and breaking bad ones. The book introduces the Four Laws of Behavior Change: make it obvious, make it attractive, make it easy, and make it satisfying. It also emphasizes the importance of small, incremental changes (atomic habits) that compound over time to produce significant results. Clear discusses techniques such as habit stacking, optimizing the environment to support desired habits, and focusing on continuous improvement rather than goal fixation. The book is filled with actionable strategies, real-life examples, and stories from various fields, making it a valuable resource for anyone seeking to improve their habits and achieve personal growth[2][4][5].

How to Win Friends and Influence People

Dale Carnegie

First published in 1936, 'How to Win Friends and Influence People' by Dale Carnegie is a timeless guide to improving interpersonal skills. The book is divided into four main sections: Six Ways to Make People Like You, Twelve Ways to Win People to Your Way of Thinking, and Nine Ways to Change People Without Giving Offense or Arousing Resentment. Carnegie's principles emphasize the importance of genuine interest in others, active listening, and avoiding criticism and argument. The book offers practical advice on how to build strong relationships, communicate effectively, and influence others by aligning their self-interest with yours. It has been a cornerstone of personal development and business success for generations[2][3][5].

Essentialism

The Disciplined Pursuit of Less

Greg McKeown

In 'Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less,' Greg McKeown argues that by applying a more selective criteria for what is essential, individuals can regain control of their time and energy. The book is divided into sections such as Explore, Eliminate, and Execute, providing practical advice on distinguishing the vital few from the trivial many and eliminating non-essential activities. McKeown emphasizes the importance of clarity of focus, the ability to say 'no,' and living 'by design, not by default.' This approach helps readers achieve more by doing less and making the highest possible contribution in their personal and professional lives.

Tools of Titans

The Tactics, Routines, and Habits of Billionaires, Icons, and World-Class Performers

Ryan Holiday

Mike Del Ponte

Therese Plummer

Ray Porter

Tim Ferriss

Kaleo Griffith

Kevin Rose

Jocko Willink

Tim Kreider

Tools of Titans is a comprehensive guide to achieving peak performance and personal transformation. The book is divided into three main sections: Healthy, Wealthy, and Wise. It features insights and strategies from over 200 interviews with successful individuals such as Arnold Schwarzenegger, Ariana Huffington, and many others. Ferriss highlights common patterns among these high achievers, including daily meditation, disciplined routines, and the ability to turn weaknesses into strengths. The book is designed to be a resource for continuous learning and improvement, providing actionable advice and tools for readers to enhance their health, wealth, and wisdom.