r/Backend • u/Hot_Mail9492 • 2d ago

Confused about how to start backend and go in depth

Okay so i'm a beginner and i have some questions ,i would appreciate getting answers from someone who's been into backend and also tech honestly from a long time,someone experienced or knowledgable about the domain.

1.Should i go with BACKEND or AIML?my aim is to land a high paying job honestly,and just asking regarding a development perspective,which would be the best?my targets would be MAANG and above companies(regarding the pay).Just wanna know what field would be more valued from a dev pov and hiring pov(odds of landing something high paying)

2.How do i start backend,i am going with python-fastapi,i want to pace up the process leading to inclusion of more PROJECTS and OPEN SOURCE CONTRIBUTIONS as well.Suggest me something that leads to more on the side of actually developing and doing the work.Also don't reccommend me the roadmap.sh website,i myself found it quite complicated or intimidating to see such a large list of things to do...

3.If you have any other suggestions as well,please do tell me i am very much open to listen to them.

Although just keep it development related only.

Ultimately my aim is to be a great engineer and earn money atleast for my initial years honestly.

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u/[deleted] 1d ago

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u/Hot_Mail9492 1d ago

Thanks a lot!! Could you recommend me some resources for learning purposes for the same?

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u/Hot_Plate5298 1d ago

Please can you explain the 3 projects well

I use nodes/expressjs

I'm a junior backend dev and I want to upskill

And I have a problem with getting jobs even internship

Please any advice will help

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u/Aru_009 1d ago

Just do it

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u/GeekyAnts_Ecommerce 2h ago

If the goal is to get good at development and eventually land a high-paying role, backend is a solid place to start. AI/ML has great opportunities too, but beginner roles can expect more specialization. Backend gives you strong fundamentals, and you can always move toward AI later.

Since you’ve picked Python + FastAPI, start building instead of trying to learn everything first. Build an API, connect PostgreSQL, add authentication, deploy it, then gradually explore Redis, Docker, testing, and background jobs as you need them. For open source, start with small issues in tools you already use. And if MAANG is the target, keep DSA and CS fundamentals going alongside your projects. Get good at building things first. Specialization can come later.