Learning Through Building

A discussion about how real learning happens through hands-on project building rather than theoretical study, based on Cody Ko's experiences as a creator and developer.

Core Learning Philosophy

• Best way to learn is by creating actual projects
• Theory and watching tutorials helps, but real learning comes from building
• Teaching yourself through project creation is more effective than formal education

Project-Based Learning Examples

• Learning iOS Development

  • Bought a book and taught himself iOS development
  • Created "I Cap That" app as learning project
  • App became #1 in App Store with $0 marketing spend
  • Generated around $500,000 in revenue

• Content Creation

  • Started making daily Vine videos as creative outlet
  • Learned through repetition and constant creation
  • Growth was linear rather than overnight success
  • Built audience through consistent content creation

• Music Production

  • Started with no musical background except drums
  • Downloaded FL Studio and started making beats
  • Created first song as comedy track
  • Evolved to professional music production through practice
  • Now has songs with 50-90 million streams

Key Learning Principles

• Start with a concrete project goal

  • Having specific project helps focus learning
  • Provides motivation and clear success metrics
  • Forces you to learn practical skills needed

• Embrace the learning curve

  • Accept that first attempts will be "garbage"
  • Focus on getting incrementally better
  • Find joy in the "0 to 1" phase
  • Learn from feedback and iteration

• Don't limit yourself

  • Avoid self-imposed limitations
  • Be willing to try things outside comfort zone
  • View "pipe dreams" as potential goals
  • Maintain belief in capability to learn new skills