mike_3141's comments

On: Best device for a kid to learn how to code?

[mike_3141]

I'd consider languages with easy syntax and focus on teaching programming concepts. Scratch, swift playgrounds, and python all seem like good options.

Frankly, I'd just buy a device for him. I think it's important to lets kids explore and find their own internal motivation.

I had unsupervised access to the internet and I turned out fine :) If you're worried about that part, you can use parental controls.

On: Ask HN: Are lawyers with SWE backgrounds useful?

[mike_3141]

Agreed - more specifically, a SWE background could be helpful for patents. I can't tell you how many times I've worked with patent lawyers who don't understand software.

On: Ask HN: What is the best way to test a software de...

[mike_3141]

I've had success with creating coding tasks that assess skills required for the job.

Provide some sample code, perhaps with bugs, perhaps without, and ask the candidate to add features, etc.