Developer Productivity Tips

Being productive as a developer isn’t just about writing more code. It’s about working smarter, not harder. Here are 10 tips that have transformed my workflow.

1. Master Your Keyboard

Stop reaching for the mouse! Learn keyboard shortcuts for:

• Your IDE/editor
• Terminal commands
• Operating system navigation

Time saved: 30+ minutes daily

2. Use Alfred/Raycast (Mac) or PowerToys (Windows)

Launcher apps are game-changers:

• Quick app switching
• Snippet expansion
• Clipboard history
• Quick calculations

3. Pomodoro Technique

Work in focused 25-minute sprints:

1. Work for 25 minutes
2. Take a 5-minute break
3. Every 4 pomodoros, take a longer break

4. Automate Repetitive Tasks

If you do it more than twice, automate it:

• Shell scripts for common workflows
• Git aliases for frequent commands
• Snippets for boilerplate code

5. Learn to Say No

Your time is valuable. Protect it:

• Decline unnecessary meetings
• Batch similar tasks
• Set boundaries for deep work time

6. Use a Second Brain

Don’t rely on memory:

• Document solutions to problems
• Keep a learning journal
• Use tools like Notion or Obsidian

7. Optimize Your Environment

Physical Space

• Good chair and desk
• Proper lighting
• Minimal distractions

Digital Space

• Clean desktop
• Organized project folders
• Efficient window management

8. Practice Incremental Improvements

Small daily improvements compound:

• Learn one new shortcut per week
• Refactor one piece of code daily
• Read 10 pages of technical content

9. Take Regular Breaks

Productivity isn’t about non-stop work:

• Stand up every hour
• Look away from screen (20-20-20 rule)
• Take walking breaks

10. Invest in Learning

Stay sharp and motivated:

• Follow industry trends
• Learn new technologies
• Contribute to open source

Bonus: My Daily Routine

6:00 AM - Wake up, review goals
6:30 AM - Deep work session (no distractions)
9:00 AM - Check messages, meetings
12:00 PM - Lunch break + walk
1:00 PM - Collaborative work
3:00 PM - Code reviews, documentation
5:00 PM - Learning time
6:00 PM - Done for the day!

Remember: Productivity is personal. Experiment with these tips and find what works for you!

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What’s your favorite productivity tip? Share in the comments!