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by lemming 5561 days ago
This is utter bull, even if PG said it. I've learned a huge amount about Java by using an editor (Intellij) that has real time static analysis of my code and points out when I'm making common mistakes with corners of the language (calling overrideable methods during object construction, for example). It's incredibly useful and informative.
2 comments
SkyMarshal 5561 days ago
Eh, was Oliver Steele, not PG. Old essay, somehow I started attributing it to PG instead:

http://osteele.com/archives/2004/11/ides

Perhaps out of date now, given what IDE's can do, though I personally still prefer to learn a language and toolchain with a text editor, then graduate to Eclipse for the benefits you mention.

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rbanffy 5561 days ago
> I've learned a huge amount about Java

But did you learn a huge amount about programming?

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