cosmc

Yes, I agree. I think the current OSX UI has timeless quality and this new design feels like a fad design that will look dated in no time. Fixing finder doesn't make for exciting headlines I suppose, and that seems that's what Apple shoots for these day, trying to maintain the innovation image at all costs.

I'm not a fan of the flat design personally, but the redesign is pretty sharp. I like the minimal safari UI; its nice when the browser lets the webpage be main focus and I think it is something Safari does best.

Your Laptop doesn't really matter too much overall, neither does your text editor to an extent. I would just use what find comfortable as a beginner and you'll naturally discover what you like/dislike. Sublime Text is a good place to start for an editor if your looking.

A lot of this feels like bad advice. Like playing penny stocks rather than index funds. I am 18, and saying that my most productive years are from 20-25 seems shortsighted and arrogant. The startup community, although cool and interesting, seems like a gold rush situation to me.

That's why I plan to get my CS degree, and get a stable job, such as one at MS (which the author seems to look down upon). I could see joining/starting a startup, if the opportunity popped up, but seeking a risky situation irks me.Maybe I am just risk adverse?

Diamond Age - Neal Stephenson

I find short term goals and check list help me focus. I like the feeling for completing something, and I can often get on a roll of checking things off the list. Also, in terms of coding I like to try and write what I need, even if I know it isn't optimal or complete; I usually figure out the solution midway through.

a farmer.

If you don't no much about investing, index funds (mutual funds which track a stock market index) are a good option. They allow for good diversification and generally have low fees. Probably best to stay away from trading stocks IMO, unless you are committed to learning about the subject.