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Fundamentals of Software Engineering: From Coder to Engineer
What do you need to know to be a successful software engineer? Undergraduate curricula and bootcamps may teach the fundamentals of algorithms and writing code, but they rarely cover topics vital to your career advancement. With this practical book, you'll learn the skills you need to succeed and thrive.
Authors Nathaniel Schutta and Dan Vega guide your journey with pointers to deep dives into specific topic areas that will help you understand the skills that really matter as a software engineer. With this book, you'
Understand what software engineering is—and why communication and other soft skills matter Learn the basics of software architecture and architectural drivers Use common and proven techniques to read and refactor code bases Understand the importance of testing and how to implement an effective test suite Know how to evaluate and choose the right solution or tool for a given problem
Authors Nathaniel Schutta and Dan Vega guide your journey with pointers to deep dives into specific topic areas that will help you understand the skills that really matter as a software engineer. With this book, you'
Understand what software engineering is—and why communication and other soft skills matter Learn the basics of software architecture and architectural drivers Use common and proven techniques to read and refactor code bases Understand the importance of testing and how to implement an effective test suite Know how to evaluate and choose the right solution or tool for a given problem
404 pages, Paperback
Published December 9, 2025
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31 people want to read
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Displaying 1 of 1 review
January 1, 2026
Having first encountered software engineering through Pressman’s classic textbook in my undergrad, I found this book to be the ideal practical complement. Pressman provides a solid theoretical foundation, while this book focuses on what it actually means to be a software engineer in today’s industry. It goes far beyond writing correct code and offers a grounded look at the entire software development lifecycle, from architecture and data design to deployment and operating software in production.
What truly sets it apart is its emphasis on the "evergreen" skills that are often missing from academic programmes. The sections on soft skills, including navigating organisational dynamics, managing stakeholders, communicating effectively and protecting a maker’s schedule, are especially valuable for long-term career growth. The book also offers a timely look at modern engineering tools, including a thoughtful exploration of AI-powered workflows and how to use LLMs as a force multiplier rather than a crutch.
If you are seeking a practical, real-world guide to working with legacy systems, collaborating effectively within teams and deliberately shaping your engineering career, this book is an excellent choice.
What truly sets it apart is its emphasis on the "evergreen" skills that are often missing from academic programmes. The sections on soft skills, including navigating organisational dynamics, managing stakeholders, communicating effectively and protecting a maker’s schedule, are especially valuable for long-term career growth. The book also offers a timely look at modern engineering tools, including a thoughtful exploration of AI-powered workflows and how to use LLMs as a force multiplier rather than a crutch.
If you are seeking a practical, real-world guide to working with legacy systems, collaborating effectively within teams and deliberately shaping your engineering career, this book is an excellent choice.
Displaying 1 of 1 review