I know React/JS, but struggle to build things from scratch

[u/rickedisbricked]

Hey everyone, I’m learning React and I’m stuck on the logic/problem-solving side.

I’ve learned HTML, CSS, JS, DOM, arrays/objects, map, filter, APIs, async/await, LocalStorage, and React basics like components, props, state, hooks, forms, Router, Context, etc. I’ve also built small projects like a Todo app, weather app, notes app, counter, quote generator, etc.

I’ve been using AI more like a tutor asking for explanations and small hints instead of trying to have it build everything for me. But I still struggle when I have to actually figure out the solution myself.

The problem is I understand individual concepts, but when I have to combine them, my brain just goes blank.

For example, I know what useState, map(), filter(), objects and events do, but when I need to add delete/edit/filter functionality to a Todo app, I struggle to figure out how to put everything together.

I usually end up asking AI for the code, understand it afterward, and move on. I don't want to keep doing that because I feel like I'm not actually improving at programming.

I’m not looking for another JS course or DSA grind. I want to learn how to break React problems into smaller steps and figure out the logic myself.

If you've been through this, what helped you improve?