Newsletters

Hardest Problem in Computer Science: Centering Things

April 21, 2024

In this issue, we explore the challenges of centering rectangles, the complexities of concurrency, SMS fraud defenses, the role of semicolons in programming, and a fascinating engineering feat by Apple.

The guide to git I never had

April 14, 2024

This issue features essential insights on mastering Git, intuitive accounting with double-entry bookkeeping, effective code review techniques, and innovative load balancing strategies—perfect for tech enthusiasts.

The Design Philosophy of Great Tables

April 07, 2024

In this issue, we explore the evolution of tables, the potential threat from xz Utils, delve into GitLab's mechanics, and discuss the importance of clear naming in coding. Plus, discover the advantages of FIFO algorithms.

How Photoshop works with files that can't fit into memory

April 01, 2024

In this issue, explore how Photoshop tackles large files, discover open-source projects with exceptional documentation, and learn about the evolution of software, API design, and containerization.

How web bloat impacts users with slow devices

March 24, 2024

In this issue, we explore the impact of web bloat on low-end devices, Figma's journey to scale its Postgres stack, insights on testing, the future of coding in education, and embracing chaos for productivity.

40 years of programming

March 17, 2024

In this issue, explore the history of programming with Lars Wirzenius, learn job application tips from Ben Hoyt, dive into HTTP/2 and HTTP/3, master project leadership with Jordan Cutler, and discover key latency numbers by Sam Who.

Leap Day Bugs

March 10, 2024

In this issue, discover the Leap Day bugs affecting NZ petrol stations, delve into SSD insights, learn about event interception, reflect on Git's evolution, and explore the trie data structure for predictive text.

Pains of building your own billing system

March 03, 2024

In this issue, we tackle the complexities of building billing systems, explore authentication fundamentals, and discuss modularization pitfalls. Plus, learn about Wide Events and how video games creatively use LUTs.

If Architects had to work like Programmers

February 25, 2024

In this issue, explore the intersection of architecture and programming, learn about retry methods, debunk myths for junior developers, discover bloom filters, and uncover clever uses of the 'cat' command in shell scripting.

Finding a New Software Developer Job

February 18, 2024

In this issue, explore the challenges of job hunting as a software developer, discover the history behind SSH port 22, enhance your SQL skills, and learn about the nuances of single-tenancy vs. multi-tenancy architecture.

Continuous Integration

February 11, 2024

This issue dives into key software development insights, from continuous integration practices to lessons learned over 30 years. Explore time zones, high-performance systems, and essential reading on distributed systems.

The advantages of queues on logs

February 04, 2024

In this issue, explore the advantages of queues on logs, tips for effective team documentation, modern CSS upgrades, job search strategies, and the importance of attitude over technical skills in interviews.

why lowercase letters save data

January 28, 2024

This issue features insights on data-saving practices with lowercase letters, the importance of tracking achievements, and the fundamental goal of software design: understandability. Plus, explore quirky HTML hacks.

How software engineers create value

January 21, 2024

In this issue, explore how engineers amplify value by focusing on impactful features, discover effective troubleshooting questions, delve into Apple's cloud architecture, and unravel the complexities of distributed systems and RSA attacks.

Learning about debuggers

January 14, 2024

In this issue, dive into debuggers, the art of refactoring with Martin Fowler’s principles, the cost of uptime for startups, and explore various distributed PostgreSQL architectures. Get insights to enhance your coding skills.

Database Fundamentals

January 07, 2024

Welcome back. This issue dives into database fundamentals, web performance tips, learning strategies for developers, the essence of good abstractions, and a look at the history of C compilers. Let's enhance our skills together.

Becoming a go-to person gets you promoted

December 17, 2023

In this festive issue, we explore how to elevate your career by becoming a go-to expert, understand engineering progression, and uncover insights on building quality software. Let’s wrap up the year on a high note. 🎄✨

How does Shazam work?

December 10, 2023

In this issue, explore the magic behind Shazam's song identification, discover various tracing tools for programming insights, and learn how Google achieves 97% developer satisfaction in code reviews. Dive into quirky HTML hacks that shaped the web.

Ship / Show / Ask

December 03, 2023

In this issue, explore strategies to enhance team efficiency, understand SLIs, optimize existing systems, tackle knowledge loss, and learn how to request more effective feedback on your work.

Scaling Airbnb’s Payment Platform

November 26, 2023

This issue dives into scaling Airbnb's payment platform, building LLM apps, testing strategies, load balancing complexities, and maximizing coding joy while minimizing unnecessary meetings.