Why I Wrote This Book

In my forty-some years as a corporate programmer, systems engineer, software developer, co-owner of a software development company, and consultant to many corporations, I have worked with thousands of programmers. Ive paid attention to what they do well and what they do poorly. Ive seen hundreds of programmers needlessly stuck on the journeyman level (meaning that theyre average, sort -of-competent workers) when, with a just a little direction and more focus, they could double or triple their income and move up to jobs that are far more prestigious, satisfying , and well paid.

Thats why I was compelled to write this book: Ive often wished I had the time to help these journeymen pry themselves from their low rung on the latter. And so, with this book, I have set out to pass along some of the expertise Ive acquired in writing computer solutions for hundreds of companiesplus the techniques Ive borrowed from other talented programmers. I hope, too, to convey to you the pleasure I get in doing this constructive, highly paid workand doing it well.