Go for Developers: Intro

AI has firmly entered our lives, and a question often arises: is there still a need to learn programming when AI can write the code? AI is a highly useful invention that can genuinely simplify our lives. However, this tool is only effective when you can review the neural network's solution yourself to prevent bugs and vulnerabilities from making it into prod.

Why Fundamentals Still Matter in the Age of AI

Yes, AI models can both write code and perform code reviews. But any experienced developer understands that AI can be incredibly convincing even when it's wrong. In this chain, a human isn't just a controller, but the bearer of context and responsibility. That is exactly why fundamental knowledge is important. Neural networks can be used to build an application in record time, but without an understanding of architectural nuances and domain specifics there is a significant risk of building a product where the cost of maintenance or failure will be far too high.

That is why code review, vulnerability analysis, risk assessment, and making decisions remain critical competencies for an engineer. This is a level of expertise that can be developed over time. To evaluate someone else’s or AI-generated solution, an engineer needs the appropriate knowledge and experience. The path to that level begins with a solid foundation in programming languages and paradigms and continues through practical experience.

I am JavaScript developer and I've been planning to learn Go for a long time. AI hasn't change my plans, because I need to understand the language to do review. In the coming days, I'll be studying the language and sharing the process through posts on Medium and my own website.

Who This Series Is For

If you already have development experience but don't know Go, this series is for you. I won't waste time chewing over the absolute basics of programming. Instead, I'll focus on the core concepts required for the quick launch of real projects where you use AI, but still want to have control over the process. This will be a course based on studying Go's official documentation with the help of AI, designed to build a clear mental model, saving you from having to sift through tons of reference material on your own.

This is introducton to my series on Go fundamentals.

Next article: Go for Developers: Setup, Variables, and Basic Types.