Using AI (Cursor) to Actually LEARN Coding - Not Just Copy-Paste! 🧠

The RIGHT Way to Use AI for Coding! 🎯

• Cursor > Copilot (and I'll tell you why)
• NEVER use agent mode (it's a trap!)
• Ask questions about EVERYTHING
• Learn from the AI, don't let it replace you

Intro

Look, AI coding assistants are everywhere now. But most devs are using them COMPLETELY WRONG. They're turning into copy-paste zombies who can't code without AI holding their hand. That's not you though, right? RIGHT?? Let me show you how to use AI to actually become a better developer.

Why Cursor > Copilot

I switched from Copilot to Cursor and never looked back. Why? Because Cursor actually explains stuff! It's not just spitting out code - it gives context. Plus, that chat interface is fire for asking follow-up questions. Copilot feels like a silent code generator, Cursor feels like a senior dev sitting next to you.

The Agent Mode Trap 🚫

Here's the tea: Agent mode is actually making you WORSE at coding. It does everything for you - refactors, implements features, handles edge cases. Sounds great? WRONG! You learn literally nothing. It's like having someone else do your homework.

The Golden Rule: ASK QUESTIONS! 🙋‍♂️

When AI generates code that works but you don't understand? That's your cue to STOP and ASK. Here's my actual workflow:

1. "Hey Cursor, why did you use a Map instead of an object here?"
2. "Can you explain this async/await pattern?"
3. "What's the time complexity of this solution?"
4. "Are there any edge cases I should consider?"

The AI's job isn't to write code for you - it's to make you understand WHY that code works.

My Learning Workflow with Cursor

Here's exactly how I use Cursor to actually improve:

Step 1: Code it myself first. Even if it's garbage.

Step 2: Ask Cursor to review, not rewrite. "What's wrong with my approach?"

Step 3: Understand the feedback. Ask "why" until it clicks.

Step 4: Implement changes MYSELF based on understanding.

Step 5: Ask for another review. Repeat until solid.

Red Flags You're Using AI Wrong 🚩

• You can't explain your own code
• You panic without internet access
• Your commit messages are "AI fixes"
• You've never asked "why" to the AI
• You use agent mode for everything

The Power of Small Tasks

Instead of "Build me a full auth system," try:

• "Explain JWT vs session authentication"
• "What are the security considerations for password hashing?"
• "Review my login function for vulnerabilities"
• "How would you implement rate limiting?"

See the difference? You're learning concepts, not just getting code.

Final Thoughts

AI is an incredible tool, but it's exactly that - a TOOL. Not a replacement for your brain. The developers who will succeed in the AI era are the ones who use it to enhance their understanding, not bypass it.

Remember: The goal isn't to generate code faster. It's to become a better developer. And that means understanding every single line you commit.

Now stop reading and go ask Cursor some questions! But make sure they're the right ones. 😉