Hackaton: Where you Hack-A-Ton

Do you want to participate in a hackathon? Maybe you’ve come across this post and want to know what it is. Or perhaps you need some advice. Let me introduce you to a hackathon!

We can be a bit purist about the word’s origin: the term “hackathon” comes from a mix of “hack” and “marathon.” So, it’s easier to understand now what a hackathon is: it’s a long race, a long time spent programming. But programming what? That depends on the hackathon! You will have a track (or several). A track is a topic about what to program. You can register for a hackathon focused on XR or VR, but there are many topics to center your programming on. On the day of the presentation, you will discover your track (they don’t tell you beforehand to prevent you from doing your “homework” early). You can have one or several tracks. Then you will be competing with others to win a fantastic prize! The level of fanciness depends on the organizers and sponsors of the hackathon.

Of course, a hackathon is more than a competition: it’s an event where you will definitely meet people!

Some hackathons can be for individual participants, but that’s not usual, as it’s very difficult to have a complete range of abilities to develop an entire application on your own. The most common type is to go with your group, but you can create it there at the hackathon too! Don’t worry, after the track announcement, you will have the opportunity to match with some people and combine your strengths!

Also, like in a marathon, it’s a non-stop long-running event, so it is for the hackathon too! You will have a final date to submit or even present your project (for example, with a cool video) and until the specified hour, you can keep programming, even during the night! Depending on the hackathon, you may have several days of development (remember to take a shower) and even workshops to learn about various topics, like how to correctly package your application, which can be really useful!

Let’s see what you need to know for a hackathon, step by step!

• Choose a Hackathon: Find one that catches your attention, about a topic you are interested in and really encourages you. Look for them online (you can choose between online or onsite hackathons).
• Prepare for Onsite Hackathons: If you choose an onsite hackathon, prepare your trip and stay. Check the hackathon’s website for facilities and venue details (they might offer discounts for participants).
• Register and Stay Updated: You may need to pay a registration fee. Always stay up to date with any news or instructions from the hackathon organizers. Review their social media for updates.
• Sign Up for Workshops: If workshops are available, consider registering for them! You can learn a lot, get useful tips, and meet many people.
• Network: Meet as many people as possible. Introduce yourself, share your interests and abilities. You can form a group with them, include them in yours, or maybe help each other out!
• Plan and Develop: Once you know the track, start planning. Design is the first step and can save you lots of time. Organize yourself and your group if you have one. Start developing and continue non-stop until you package the project and submit it following the instructions!
• Celebrate: Wait for the awards and celebrate regardless of the outcome! It’s not easy to keep developing without stopping. Enjoy and join the party!

Here are some tips for the hackathon:

• Network Extensively: You never know when you might need help from someone you met.
• Utilize Experts: If there are experts available during the hackathon, develop on-site to ask questions, get recommendations, and connect with them.
• Know Your Potential: Focus on your weaknesses; you’ll need the most time for those areas.
• All Ideas Are Valid: Write down and draw out every idea. No idea is too crazy. Consider your time constraints and design accordingly.
• Stay Calm: If something isn’t working, it might be faster to change the idea or implementation.
• Secure Your Belongings: Bring locks for your PC and belongings if you leave your workspace.
• Stay Hydrated and Fed: Boost your energy with snacks and water. Programming requires a lot of energy.
• Sleep: Recharge your body and brain.

Now, it’s your time to create your own experiences and enjoy each step of your progress as a developer. Do you have any experiences or doubts? Leave them in the comments!

#VirtualReality #VR #Hackathon #Programming #Collaboration #DeveloperTips

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