Baines Blogging

1. Why a Proper Setup Matters Before diving into code, a structured setup helps you avoid “spaghetti” projects that become hard to maintain. Using a virtual environment ensures your dependencies are isolated (so you don’t clash with system Python or other projects). Having a clear skeleton (separating imports, variables, functions, and “main program logic”) gives you and future readers a map of where each piece lives. Many software engineering experts emphasize that good architecture up front can save you enormous friction later — clean structure is one of the foundations of maintainability. ( Ciklum ) 2. Creating a Virtual Environment  💾💻💹 Here’s a typical workflow: Open your terminal / command prompt in your project folder (or create a new folder). Run (for Python 3): python3 -m venv venv This creates a directory venv/ (or whatever you name it) containing the isolated Python environment. Activate it: On macOS / Linux: source venv/bin/activate On Windows ...

 In the world of tech, it's easy to fall into the trap of comparing yourself to others. Maybe it's the developer on your team who seems to solve problems twice as fast, or that person on Twitter who contributes to five open-source projects and still has time for a blog and a podcast. But the truth is, trying to be the “best” in class is a moving target—and a distracting one. A more sustainable and rewarding mindset is to focus on raising your own level, day by day. Progress, not perfection, is what actually moves you forward. One of the most powerful habits in tech is deliberate practice . It's not just about writing more code; it's about writing it thoughtfully, reflecting on what went wrong, and iterating. Whether you're learning a new language, framework, or debugging a tricky issue, take time to understand why things work the way they do. Set mini-goals for yourself like “understand closures in JavaScript” or “write a CLI tool in Python.” Small, focused wins a...

  I Graduated with a 2:1 in Computing from Sheffield Hallam University! I'm incredibly proud to share that I’ve officially graduated from Sheffield Hallam University with a 2:1 in BSc Computing! It’s been a challenging, rewarding, and ultimately fulfilling journey, and I’m grateful for all the experiences, both technical and personal, that have shaped me along the way. From learning core computing principles to diving deep into specialist areas, my time at university has equipped me with the tools and confidence to move forward in the tech world. One of the standout modules for me was Data Management. I found it fascinating to explore how data is structured, stored, and retrieved, and how good design can make or break the efficiency of a system. This module really laid the groundwork for many of my later projects, giving me the practical skills and theoretical understanding to handle data effectively and responsibly—something that proved crucial in my final year work. My Artific...

Unlocking the Power of Data Analysis: Tools and Techniques for Understanding User Feedback Data analysis is the backbone of decision-making across countless industries, providing insights that drive business strategy, marketing decisions, and customer experience improvements. With the explosion of user-generated content on platforms like YouTube, analyzing user comments has become a powerful tool to understand public sentiment, track brand reputation, and improve user engagement. Step 1: Data Collection – Pulling User Comments from YouTube Before any analysis can happen, we first need the data. In the case of YouTube, user comments are stored publicly on each video. To collect them, we use the YouTube Data API . This API allows us to programmatically retrieve comment data, such as the text of the comments, the date posted, and user metadata (like user ID or username). Here’s how it works: Set up the API : First, you’ll need to create a project on the Google Cloud Console, enab...

This is a summary of my GitHub Pages site!   https://cuthbert86.github.io/ It is my personal corner of the web where I’m showcasing a range of projects and experiments as I learn more about web design and development. Whether you’re a fellow tech enthusiast, a curious visitor, or someone interested in learning alongside me, I hope you’ll find something interesting and useful here. The site is a living portfolio, featuring examples of my work as I explore different technologies and programming concepts. You’ll see projects built with HTML and enhanced with popular web tools like Bootstrap, giving my pages a clean and responsive look. I’m always updating and improving the design as I pick up new techniques, and many of the pages reflect my journey in web development. One of the highlights is my exploration of Python and its many applications. I’ve included projects that demonstrate data analysis, working with CircuitPython and MicroPython, and even connecting devices using MQTT....

  CUTHBERT BAINES PROFILE Full-stack python/Django developer. Intellectually curious and open minded Computing graduate specialising in Internet of Things (IoT) and microcomputing solutions. Experienced in working with microcontrollers, data collection, transmission, analysis, and live dashboards. Strong problem-solving skills and a proven work ethic from years in diverse roles. I am completely focused on completing the project at hand. Always do what needs to be done to make the project a success. Inquisitive mind, always willing to learn. Approachable and supportive of other Developers and Users.  Enjoys finding Innovative solutions to any problems that arise. ROLE I love solving problems. Looking for my first main role ideally in python / micro python / circuit python and Embedded software systems, data hubs, dashboards. I also have hardware experience. Plus experience in various languages and systems. So also very open to working with other languages and frameworks. KEY SK...

  Dear Sir or madam, Up until May-June earlier this year I was a mature Student at Sheffield Hallam University and I’m looking for my first job in the computing/IT/Data analysis/software development sector, I’ve always had a job during my entire adult life but this is the first time I’m applying for a job in the IT sector. I didn’t have a great start to my adult life, my entire family moved hundreds of miles away when I was 16 years old and still in school doing my GCSE’s.  At that time I was close to being homeless.  So even though I was either the best student in my school or one of the best I didn’t get to go to University at the same time as everyone else.  I thought I’d missed my chance and I’d never get to go so when I did go I made the absolute most out of it!  No amount of work was too much for me and my attendance was by far the best in my class. I’m looking for an employer/manager to give me a chance to do some good work for them, I will make sure they...