Frequently Asked Questions about the ALX Software Engineering Programme

Frequently Asked Questions about the ALX Software Engineering Programme

Here are the answers to the most common questions I've been asked on Twitter about the ALX Software Engineering Programme.

Can I combine work with the programme because I have a lot to do during the day?

I know a lot of people in the programme that combine it with work so I’d say it's very possible. I suggest that you start the programme to see how best you can manage your schedule.

Do I really have to spend 70 hours/ is it compulsory?

No it isn’t compulsory. The time you spend depends on how fast you can understand the concepts and perform the tasks. If it takes you 50 hours, that’s fine.

The beautiful thing about Software engineering is that there are innumerable resources. If you don't like videos, you can read documentation or even textbooks. Just try different things until you find what is the best fit for you.

What strategy can I use to complete the first month?

I'd say you should find people that you can move along with. People in your cohort that you can be accountable to and who can also be accountable to you so that you will not be easily overwhelmed.

Is the programme only about the C language?

No it isn’t. Here’s a link to the curriculum docs.google.com/document/d/1TEjgW7IJnUBtrJH..

What are the classes like?

The classes are held after the first deadline so that people who have trouble understanding the resources can catch up. I recently got an email that live learning sessions are going to begin soon but I don't know how it’s going to go.

How do you multitask?

I divide the tasks I have to do between two or more days so that I can do other things during my day.

What did your preparation look like before you started the programme?

I got accepted into the programme just a few days before it started and I had a lot of stuff to do so I didn't technically start preparing until the day the programme started.

Can I connect with you on WhatsApp?

I don’t use WhatsApp much so you’ll find it easier reaching me on twitter at george_veno

Do I need to have a coding background to enrol in the programme?

No you don’t. The programme is for newbies and while having a coding background might be beneficial, it is not necessary.

Does ALX create the peer learning groups or we can do it ourselves?

The peer learning groups on the ALX platform are created by the students. You can join an existing one or create one yourself.

Are there different resumption dates?

Yes. There are different resumption days for different cohorts.

I'm bad at using social media and networking. How do I cope?

I thought I was bad at it too until I started. All you need to do is follow people on the same journey and people you admire, and post what you’re learning regularly. You’ll watch your network start to grow.

There's a lot of conflicting information about the programme and a lot of stuff I've read are overwhelming

I’d suggest that you stop reading and wait for the programme to start. You can follow the curriculum as ALX has intended, learn as you progress and still be successful in the programme. There's no rush.

Can I use my phone for the programme?

Yes you can. Check out how to fully install Termux for mobile on YouTube.

If you have more questions you would like me to answer, you can write them down in the comment section and I'll include them in the article. Thanks for reading.

I am not affiliated with or endorsed by ALX. The opinions and views I share are purely my own.