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!


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

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