Free Coding Lessons, DIY Organizers & Secure Document Disposal
Weekly Roundup: Coding, Organization, and Secure Document Disposal
This week's focus centers on opportunities for skill development, practical organization solutions, and alternative methods for handling confidential paperwork.
Free Coding Education Opportunity
A chance to gain a full year of coding instruction at no cost is currently available. This presents a valuable opportunity for individuals looking to enter or advance within the technology sector.
DIY Grid-It Organizer
For those seeking a customized organizational tool, instructions are provided for building your own Grid-It style gadget organizer. This allows for tailored storage of small electronic accessories and other items.
Alternative to Document Shredding
An unconventional, yet potentially effective, method for disposing of sensitive documents has been highlighted. Instead of traditional shredding, utilizing a bucket for secure containment is presented as an option.
This approach offers a different perspective on data security and document management.
Further Considerations
- The coding lessons provide a pathway to new career opportunities.
- Creating a custom Grid-It organizer promotes efficient packing and portability.
- The bucket method for document disposal should be evaluated based on specific security needs.
Complimentary Coding Education
A reader named Samuel has shared a valuable resource for those interested in acquiring coding skills in the coming year.
Code Year Program
Samuel brought to our attention a program offered by Codecademy called Code Year. This initiative provides participants with a free programming lesson delivered directly to their email inbox each week throughout the year.
The program’s curriculum appears to begin with JavaScript, offering a foundational introduction to programming concepts.
Samuel initially contacted us hoping to share this information, stating he discovered it as a New Year’s resolution and believed it would benefit other visitors to our site.
Initial Assessment
We evaluated the Code Year program firsthand.
The initial lessons focus on the fundamentals of JavaScript, making it an accessible starting point for individuals without prior coding experience.
It appears to be a highly effective resource for beginners seeking to learn programming languages. Samuel’s discovery is certainly noteworthy!
Further details about the Code Year program can be found on the Codecademy website.
Constructing a Personalized Grid-It Alternative
A resourceful reader, Mark, has shared details regarding the creation of a do-it-yourself Grid-It clone.
Reader Submission
Following your post from November concerning the construction of a homemade Grid-It, I was inspired to build my own version. While the book-bound design was aesthetically pleasing, my preference leans towards simplicity and the utilization of duct tape.
Several months ago, I completed a Grid-It clone based on a YouTube tutorial, which can be viewed here. The final product may lack the vintage book cover, but it closely resembles the original Grid-It in functionality.
After reviewing the referenced video, we understand the motivation behind creating a custom solution.
Shipping Costs and DIY Appeal
The substantial shipping fee of $75 to Sweden highlighted in the video clearly demonstrates the economic advantage of a DIY approach.
This cost factor underscores the appeal of crafting a personalized Grid-It alternative, offering a practical and cost-effective solution for organization.
Ultimately, the project provides a viable option for those seeking to avoid exorbitant shipping expenses.
Document Destruction Using Water: A Simple Method
A reader named Nick recently shared a resourceful technique for disposing of sensitive documents.
The Accidental Discovery
Nick admits to often postponing the task of shredding papers, accumulating them in a container with the intention of addressing them later.
During a warm weekend, he planned to shred the accumulated papers outdoors, but became sidetracked.
Unexpectedly, a significant rainfall occurred, completely filling the container with water.
He left the waterlogged papers undisturbed over the weekend, intending to handle them subsequently.
From Paper to Pulp
By Monday evening, the paper had become thoroughly saturated, transforming into a substantial pulpy mass.
After draining the water and allowing it to partially dry, the remaining material resembled a solid block of wood pulp.
Attempts to separate the material proved futile, rendering the original documents unreadable.
A Traditional Technique
Further investigation revealed that this method of document disposal is not new.
It is, in fact, a long-standing practice in Japan for securely destroying paper records.
Adding powdered dish detergent to the water can further expedite the disintegration process.
A Quiet Alternative
For those who consistently delay shredding or dislike the noise of a paper shredder, utilizing a bucket of water presents a viable alternative.
If sufficient outdoor space is available for soaking and drying, this method offers a discreet and quiet way to eliminate large quantities of confidential information.
Thanks to Nick for sharing this innovative solution!
Do you possess a helpful tip you'd like to contribute? Send an email to tips@howtogeek.com for potential inclusion in a future post.