Instruction ordering causes confusion

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1

Hi there,
I wanted to post about a problem that I have been running into that seems to be an issue for others when trying to understand freeCodeCamp instructions, but that I have not seen discussed.

Often the way that instructions are explained causes confusion regarding the order in which code should be entered. To use an example from the project I was recently working on .

Stated instructions: Use the addition assignment operator += to append your HTMLString variable to targetInputContainer.innerHTML.

The code was looking for targetInputContainer.innerHTML += HTMLString;

The way the question was asked though, HTMLString is placed first. When looking through past forums I often find that new coders will understand the general concept, but are struggling because they arent sure of where the code needs to go and in what order.

Iā€™m sure the problem does not translate for people who are already adept at coding, but as a new person this is something that can be very confusing and frustrating. Figuring these things out simply comes with more practice and muscle memory, but sometimes the way the instructions are worded it seems as if it is trying to confuse you on purpose. Often my progress is hindered because the instructions themselves are not clear in their wording or provide an example that is not well matched contextually to what is currently going on in the project.

I think simple changes like word order could really help new coders.

2

This says that HTMLString is being appended (added to) the targetInputContainer.innerHTM. The instructions are expecting learners to remember or look back on what += does. This sentence is correct.

The wording is chosen to be accurate, not confusing, but learning can be confusing if you misunderstand ideas, which is natural.

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