The hottest Programming Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Technology Topics

A brief history of my experience with Linux

Arraybolt's Archives • 58 implied HN points • 09 Mar 23
🕹 Technology Programming
  1. The author's journey with Linux started from a young age on Windows, then moved to testing different Linux distros like KXStudio and ChaletOS.
  2. Experimenting with different distros in virtual machines and on physical hardware led to the discovery and preference for Ubuntu-based distros like Kubuntu and Lubuntu.
  3. Eventually, the author transitioned to contributing to Ubuntu development, experiencing the joy of being part of a community and making a positive impact.

Why is there more than one way to end a while loop?

Mostly Python • 419 implied HN points • 14 Mar 23
🕹 Technology Programming
  1. Programming languages may offer multiple ways to accomplish the same task for different use cases.
  2. Python emphasizes having one clear and obvious way to do things to promote readability and maintainability.
  3. Ending a while loop in Python can be done using the while statement, break statement, or a flag - each with its own unique advantages.
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The Mythical Non-Roboticist

General Robots • 199 HN points • 14 Mar 24
🕹 Technology Programming
  1. Programming robots is inherently complex due to dealing with the real world and imperfect conditions.
  2. Design APIs and frameworks for users as smart as you are, but less tolerant of unnecessary complexity.
  3. Robotics development is challenging due to both intrinsic complexity and incidental 'stupid bullshit' complexity that must be navigated.

What's new in GHC 2021

Type Classes • 403 implied HN points • 14 Mar 23
🕹 Technology Programming
  1. Use GHC2021 as the language for Haskell projects to stay up-to-date.
  2. Haskell has evolved through different versions and compilers, with GHC being a major player.
  3. GHC 2021 introduces new features like expanding deriving power, more explicit type information, and new ways to write numbers.

Making myself uncomfortable again

awesomekling • 379 implied HN points • 07 Apr 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Programming
  1. After overcoming drug addiction, the author started documenting his progress through YouTube videos, which led to a supportive community.
  2. The author successfully transitioned from video content creation to writing as a new challenge, aiming to improve his skills in English and thinking.
  3. By facing discomfort and embracing new challenges, the author continues to grow and evolve personally and professionally.

The Future of P4: One Perspective

Systems Approach • 353 implied HN points • 15 May 23
🕹 Technology Programming
  1. P4 language is more than just Tofino chips, it has many backend targets like SmartNICs and IPUs.
  2. The distinction between 'open' and 'closed' forwarding pipelines is crucial, even fixed pipelines can be flexible.
  3. P4's value lies not just in quantifiable metrics, but also in its ability to abstract packet forwarding pipelines effectively.

Exploring recent Python repositories

Mostly Python • 314 implied HN points • 22 Jun 23
🕹 Technology Programming
  1. Use the GitHub API to explore popular new Python projects and find potential projects to contribute to.
  2. Consider filtering out AI-focused projects when exploring Python repositories to discover a variety of coding projects.
  3. Pruning repositories using specific terms can help identify non-AI Python projects to work on, providing valuable learning opportunities.

Code coverage doesn't matter much

Andrew's Substack • 83 implied HN points • 29 Nov 24
🕹 Technology Programming
  1. Code coverage alone doesn't indicate whether tests are good or useful. It's more about the quality of the tests than the quantity.
  2. Not all tests are valuable; some can be complex and fail for reasons that don't matter, which can lead to false confidence in the code.
  3. The aim of testing should be to assure that your code works and to catch errors, instead of just trying to raise a coverage percentage.

Honeymoon with ChatGPT

Splattern • 39 implied HN points • 27 Nov 23
🕹 Technology Programming
  1. ChatGPT can help you build a simple website quickly, even if you have little coding experience. You can get a lot done with just a few prompts.
  2. It's easy to ask ChatGPT to tweak and improve your code, making debugging simpler. You can keep refining your work until it fits your needs.
  3. While ChatGPT is great for generating code, it might struggle with complex math or writing tasks, but you can guide it to get better results.

All the bullshit I did as a kid (part 1?)

Basta’s Notes • 204 implied HN points • 17 Jan 24
🕹 Technology Programming
  1. The author reflects on the interesting and ambitious projects they worked on as a kid, showcasing a strong interest in technology and programming.
  2. Despite lacking mentorship, the author taught themselves valuable programming skills, such as building their own web browser and writing complex code like a CSS parser.
  3. The journey from tinkering with personal computers to winning a programming contest and earning internship opportunities highlights the author's growth and passion for technology.

[Solution]Problem 76: Combination Sum [Google]

Technology Made Simple • 59 implied HN points • 24 Feb 23
🕹 Technology Programming
  1. The problem involves backtracking, recursion, and graph modeling to find unique combinations that sum to a target.
  2. Modeling the problem as a graph with states and transitions helps in traversal mechanics using DFS.
  3. Implementing a simple graph traversal algorithm, backtracking, and a global variable to track combinations can efficiently solve the problem.

Run Large Language Model On Your Own Computer

The Beep • 19 implied HN points • 10 Mar 24
🕹 Technology Programming
  1. You can run large language models, like Llama2, on your own computer using a tool called Ollama. This allows you to use powerful AI without needing super high-tech hardware.
  2. Setting up Ollama is simple. You just need to download it and run a couple of commands in your terminal to get started.
  3. Once it's running, you can interact with the model like you would with any chatbot. This means you can type prompts and get responses directly from your own machine.

Redis Changes Every few Years - Are you up to date?

🔮 Crafting Tech Teams • 59 implied HN points • 01 Jun 23
🕹 Technology Programming
  1. Redis has evolved beyond just a cache and can be used for various purposes like PubSub notifiers, search DB, and event storage.
  2. Postgres, known as an SQL DB, can also be utilized as an event store, message queue, outbox, or document db, showcasing the versatility of technologies.
  3. It's essential to stay up to date with how technologies like Redis are changing over the years to make the most of their capabilities.

Easy Robotics with a 3D Printer and Raspberry Pi

Messy Progress • 59 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🕹 Technology Programming
  1. Making a robot with a 3D printer and a Raspberry Pi is fun and can be done on a budget. You can create many different designs without limits.
  2. A modular design is helpful because it allows for easy changes and quick fixes. This makes it easier for kids to participate and experiment.
  3. Using a Raspberry Pi for controlling your robot opens up many possibilities, like adding cameras or other fun components. You can even use simple coding to operate it.

Grounding yourself as a programmer in the AI era, part 6

Mostly Python • 314 implied HN points • 11 May 23
🕹 Technology Programming
  1. Programming in the AI era is undergoing significant changes.
  2. The future of programming lies between extremes: no programming needed with AI doing everything, and tools not being useful.
  3. AI tools have potential to democratize software development, but their effectiveness can be underestimated due to inconsistencies and non-deterministic nature.

The Joy of Literate Programming

Rethinking Software • 99 implied HN points • 02 Sep 24
🕹 Technology Programming
  1. Literate programming is a fun way to write and document code. It's like mixing storytelling with coding, making the process more enjoyable.
  2. Using tools like Organic Markdown, you can easily manage and run code alongside your documentation in a Markdown editor. It helps keep everything organized and readable.
  3. This programming style allows for creative flexibility, like rearranging sections of code for better clarity and using command outputs as if they were code. It feels almost magical!

Turtles aren't just for kids

Type Classes • 302 implied HN points • 19 May 23
🕹 Technology Programming
  1. Code demonstrations can be boring and need to be made more engaging.
  2. Even if the concepts in Haskell are interesting, printing text can limit the demonstration.
  3. Consider subscribing for a 7-day free trial to access more content on Type Classes.

Think twice, code once!

BK's Essays • 12 HN points • 19 Apr 24
🕹 Technology Programming
  1. Before coding, take time to understand the context and requirements of the task to be accomplished.
  2. Write down your assumptions and evaluate different possible paths or solutions before jumping into implementation.
  3. Implement only after thorough thinking and planning, considering the pros and cons of each potential solution.

Faster NTT with RISC-V Vector

Fprox’s Substack • 62 implied HN points • 11 Jan 25
🕹 Technology Programming
  1. The Number Theoretic Transform (NTT) can speed up polynomial multiplications, which are important for modern cryptography. Optimizing how this process works leads to significant performance improvements.
  2. Using assembly language can help tailor code for specific hardware, allowing more direct control over how instructions are executed, which can greatly enhance speed.
  3. Combining multiple steps of the NTT process into fewer loops and minimizing unnecessary calculations can lead to much lower execution times, achieving targets that seemed difficult at first.

Under the microscope: Strikers 1945 & Sengoku Blade (Saturn, PlayStation)

Rings of Saturn • 29 implied HN points • 11 Jun 25
🕹 Technology Programming
  1. The games Strikers 1945 and Sengoku Blade have hidden cheat codes that let you access features like test modes and invincibility. You just need to enter the right button sequences at the start.
  2. For Strikers 1945 on Saturn, you can skip levels and even make your character invincible, giving you a fun way to enjoy the game without dying.
  3. Both games can be accessed in a special test mode by holding the Start button during boot-up, offering players a look behind the scenes of the game.

The Dart Programming Language Is Underrated

Deus In Machina • 72 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Programming
  1. Dart is a modern programming language that's great for building mobile and web apps, mainly through Flutter. Many developers find it fast and easy to use, especially for creating user interfaces.
  2. Dart has a lot of useful features, like being very object-oriented, supporting asynchronous programming, and offering good tools for development. However, it can also be a bit complex with many keywords to remember.
  3. Despite its strengths, Dart sometimes faces doubts about its future due to Google's history of canceling projects. Nevertheless, its community is growing, and the language continues to evolve and improve.

dlt windsurfing

davidj.substack • 71 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Programming
  1. dlt is a Python tool that helps organize messy data into clear, structured datasets. It's easy to use and can quickly load data from many sources.
  2. Using AI tools like Windsurf can make coding feel more collaborative. They help you find solutions faster and reduce the burden of coding from scratch.
  3. Storing data in formats like parquet can make processing much quicker. Simplifying your data handling can save you a lot of time and resources.

Seven things I know after 25 years of development

zverok on lucid code • 57 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
🕹 Technology Programming
  1. After many years of working in development, it's clear that balancing technical skills with human connection is crucial. Building good relationships can make a big difference in your career.
  2. Learning is a lifelong journey, and it's important to be open to new ideas and changes in the industry. Staying curious helps you adapt and grow.
  3. Reflecting on personal and professional lessons can lead to meaningful growth. Taking time to think about your experiences is valuable for future decisions.

Why Making a Non-Woke AI Is Actually Very Hard

The Future of Life • 19 implied HN points • 26 Feb 24
🕹 Technology Programming
  1. Language models learn from the data they are trained on, which often includes a lot of left-leaning content, making them reflect that bias.
  2. Adjusting a model's political views is complicated because it involves changing an entire worldview, which can mess up the quality of the responses.
  3. Creating a balanced AI requires new training methods, as current models can’t easily switch perspectives without losing their effectiveness.

Scaling the $10 Trillion Illusion & LLMs as the Dead End?

ppdispatch • 5 implied HN points • 09 Dec 25
🕹 Technology Programming
  1. Senior engineers excel at turning vague problems into clear plans, helping teams take action and avoid confusion.
  2. Decisions about programming languages often stem from personal biases, leading to costly mistakes instead of rational choices.
  3. Rushing AI development without proper foundations can create significant technical debt and unexpected costs, showing that speed isn't everything.

The Story of Nel

Deus In Machina • 72 implied HN points • 29 Nov 24
🕹 Technology Programming
  1. Real programmers often rely on their knowledge and skills rather than on tools like AI and autocomplete features to code. It highlights the importance of understanding the code at a fundamental level.
  2. Having face-to-face conversations and collaboration among team members helped boost productivity when technology failed. Working together led to better problem-solving and learning.
  3. Using simple, effective tools that fit your needs can lead to better coding experiences. Sometimes, going back to the basics can spark creativity and innovation.

What's an SDK?

Technically • 67 implied HN points • 16 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Programming
  1. An SDK, or Software Development Kit, is like a toolbox for developers, helping them build apps without starting from scratch. It lets them use pieces of code made by others, saving a lot of time.
  2. There are different kinds of tools: libraries are small, focused pieces of code for specific tasks, while SDKs are larger, more comprehensive sets that cover broader tasks like payment processing.
  3. SDKs help developers use APIs easily by providing helpful tools and documentation. They make tasks simpler, so developers can focus on creating great apps instead of writing everything from the ground up.

The Sequence Chat: Microsoft's Evan Chaki on Semantic Kernel and Combining LLMs with Conventional Programming Languages

TheSequence • 294 implied HN points • 26 Apr 23
🕹 Technology Programming
  1. Semantic Kernel enables developers to create AI applications using large language models without writing complex code or training custom models.
  2. Memory systems and data connectors play a crucial role in enhancing productivity and efficiency in LLM-based applications.
  3. Hybrid programming with natural language and traditional programming languages can automate tasks like creating educational content and contract Q&A, leading to faster, error-free results.

Quick Note: swapping pairs with RVV

Fprox’s Substack • 62 implied HN points • 25 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Programming
  1. There are two main techniques for swapping pairs of elements using RISC-V Vector: one uses slidedown and slideup operations, and the other uses narrowing and widening arithmetic. Each has its own method for rearranging elements.
  2. The slidedown and slideup technique tends to be faster because it uses fewer operations and avoids extra complexity, making it more efficient for swapping elements in practice.
  3. In testing, the slidedown method consistently showed lower latency in tasks compared to the widening approach, indicating it might be the better choice for optimizing performance in applications like NTT implementations.

Elixir, Education, and Beyond: A Conversation with Rickson Oliveira, Software Engineer at ateliware

Elixir & Erlang • 19 implied HN points • 19 Feb 24
🕹 Technology Programming
  1. Rickson Oliveira, a Software Engineer at ateliware, works with technologies like Elixir, Phoenix, LiveView, and JavaScript.
  2. Rickson Oliveira was a former student of ELXPRO, an Elixir course created by Gustavo Oliveira.
  3. The podcast episode features a conversation with Rickson Oliveira about Elixir, education, and beyond.

Forcefully deterministic unit testing

Stateless Machine • 3 HN points • 18 Jul 24
🕹 Technology Programming
  1. Unit tests should not interact with anything outside the program. This keeps tests clean and focused just on the code being tested.
  2. To make testing easier, functions should use interfaces to handle outside interactions. This allows for fake implementations during testing.
  3. By controlling how the outside world is accessed in a programming language, tests can be made deterministic. This means results are reliable and consistency is ensured.

Friday Finds - Bonus Links

Data Science Weekly Newsletter • 19 implied HN points • 16 Feb 24
🕹 Technology Programming
  1. There are new tutorials available for those interested in AI and humanities. These tutorials aim to help people learn how to use AI tools effectively.
  2. The Leverhulme Programme is offering opportunities in ecological data science. This program is designed for doctoral training and focuses on important ecological research.
  3. A team is looking to hire a remote R programmer. They want someone to create an easy-to-use package for analyzing complex models in R.

Domain-Driven Design is about Language, not Code

🔮 Crafting Tech Teams • 59 implied HN points • 26 Apr 23
🕹 Technology Programming
  1. Domain-Driven Design focuses on language over code to prevent following frameworks that may not align with DDD principles.
  2. Developers often struggle with ORM tools that extensively use terms like Repository and Entity, which can lead to DDD pitfalls.
  3. Avoid getting trapped by being mindful of the nuances and staying true to the core principles of Domain-Driven Design.