Last Updated: 22nd June 2025
1. Hardware Requirements
We heavily recommend using a macbook for development (M1 chip or newer). Why?- Unix-based OS makes it ideal for running dev tools and commands natively
- Industry standard with many dev tools optimized for Mac first
- Built-in linux-based terminal with native Unix commands
- Cross-platform development capabilities (iOS, Android, Windows, Linux)
- Reliable hardware with excellent battery life and display
- Seamless integration with Apple’s developer ecosystem
- Monthly rolling: £54.95/mo
- 12-month lease: £42.49/mo
- Monthly rolling: £53.59/mo
- 12-month lease: £43.49/mo
- Monthly rolling: £83.53/mo
- 12-month lease: £64.99/mo
If you need any help setting up your development environment below, book an onboarding call with me and I’ll help you get everything set up —> https://cal.com/obaid/laptop-onboarding
2. Development Environment
1
Terminal Setup
The terminal is a software engineer’s way to interact with their computer. You’ll be using it a lot.Install Warp to get a better terminal experience than the default MacOS Terminal.
2
Homebrew + Node.js Setup
Install Homebrew:Homebrew is a package manager for MacOS. It’s a way to install and manage software on your computer.Install Homebrew:Install Node.js:Node.js is required for modern web development. It lets you run JavaScript outside of a web browser.
- Install Node Version Manager (nvm): Node.js Mac Installation Guide
- Verify installation:
- Install bun (faster package manager):
- Verify bun:
3
Cursor Setup
Cursor is our recommended code editor - it combines powerful features with AI capabilities.Download and install it here
Good news! Cursor is now free for all verified students. If you’re a student, you can get access here.
Quick Setup
The fastest way to get all the recommended settings:- Install my Complete Profile
- It will automatically ask to open in Cursor. Click “Create”
Cmd + P
: Quick Open (search for files)Cmd + Shift + P
: Command Palette (access all commands)Cmd + Shift + F
: Global search across the codebaseCtrl + backtick
: Toggle terminalOption + Up/Down Arrow
: Expand text selectionCmd + Option + Left/Right Arrow
: Navigate back/forth between cursor positionsCmd + /
: Comment/Uncomment codeCmd + B
: Open left sidebar file treeCmd + L
: Open Cursor AI Chat interfaceCmd + I
: Open Cursor AI Composer interfaceCmd + K
: Generate/edit code or terminal commands
Cursor Tutorial
Watch this tutorial to get familiar with the most important features and how to use this editor.Configure System Prompt
Paste this into Cursor’s system prompt settings:4
Essential Tools
Create accounts for the following tools (if you don’t already have them):
-
AI Assistants:
- Grok or Perplexity - (Free ChatGPT and Google Search Alternatives) Cites sources, real-time info, perfect for research and staying updated
-
Diagramming Tools:
- Excalidraw - Clean, aesthetic diagrams that look hand-drawn
- EraserIO - System Design diagramming
-
Browser:
- Google Chrome - Works fine for most use-cases
- (Optional) Sizzy - Specialised development browser
-
Mac-Specific Tools:
- SuperWhisper - AI-powered voice to text that works in any app. Write 3x faster without lifting a finger. Supports 100+ languages, works offline, and keeps everything private on your device. Perfect for dictating emails, documentation, and code comments.
- Raycast - Better MacOS Spotlight alternative
- Alfred - Better Spotlight alternative (Paid)
If you need any help setting up your development environment above, book an onboarding call with me and I’ll help you get everything set up —> https://cal.com/obaid/laptop-onboarding
3. Work Ethic
The Prophet ﷺ said: “The most beloved of deeds to Allah are those that are most consistent, even if they are small.” [Bukhari & Muslim] This roadmap requires: • 2-4 hours of focused study daily (5 pomodoro sessions: 50min work, 10min break) • Highly motivated? Can do 4-6 hours, but consistency > intensity • Steady 2 hours daily > sporadic 8-hour cramming sessions Remember: “We overestimate what we can achieve in a day, but underestimate what we can accomplish in a year.” If you stick to this roadmap, you’ll be unrecognizable in 6 months.Need help with time management, focus, or any other aspect of self-improvement? Check out our comprehensive Self-Improvement Guide for practical tips and Islamic guidance on everything from managing screen time to maintaining work-life balance.
Start the Roadmap
Now that you’re set up, let’s begin your journey to becoming a Software Engineer