How do you learn and update your skills on new instruction set extensions and features?

1 Identify your needs and goals

The first step to learning and updating your skills on new instruction set extensions and features is to identify your needs and goals. What kind of microprocessor are you working with or targeting? What kind of applications are you developing or running? What kind of challenges or opportunities are you facing or seeking? Depending on your answers, you may need to focus on different instruction set extensions and features, such as SIMD, AES, AVX, or RISC-V. You may also have different learning objectives, such as understanding the basics, mastering the details, or applying the knowledge.

2 Find reliable and relevant sources

The next step is to find reliable and relevant sources of information and learning materials on new instruction set extensions and features. There are many resources available online, such as official documentation, blogs, podcasts, videos, courses, books, and forums. However, not all of them are accurate, up-to-date, or suitable for your level and needs. You need to evaluate the quality, credibility, and usefulness of the sources you find, and select the ones that match your criteria. You may also want to consult with experts, peers, or mentors who can guide you or recommend you the best sources.

3 Learn by doing and testing

The third step is to learn by doing and testing. Reading or watching about new instruction set extensions and features is not enough to acquire and retain the knowledge and skills. You need to practice and apply what you learn in real or simulated scenarios, such as writing or modifying code, debugging or optimizing programs, or benchmarking or comparing performance. You also need to test your understanding and skills by solving problems, answering questions, or taking quizzes. This way, you can reinforce your learning, identify your strengths and weaknesses, and measure your progress.

4 Keep track and review

The fourth step is to keep track and review your learning and updating process. You need to record and organize your learning activities, outcomes, and feedback, such as notes, summaries, examples, exercises, results, or comments. You can use tools such as notebooks, spreadsheets, or apps to help you with this task. You also need to review your records regularly, and reflect on what you have learned, how you have learned, and what you need to improve or revise. This way, you can consolidate your knowledge and skills, evaluate your performance, and plan your next steps.

5 Stay curious and open-minded

The fifth step is to stay curious and open-minded about new instruction set extensions and features. The field of microprocessor technology is constantly evolving and expanding, and new instruction set extensions and features are being introduced or updated frequently. You need to keep an eye on the latest developments and trends, and explore new possibilities and opportunities. You can do this by following news, blogs, podcasts, videos, or social media channels that cover this topic, or by joining online or offline communities, events, or workshops that share this interest. You also need to be willing to learn from others, experiment with new ideas, and challenge yourself.

6 Share and teach

The final step is to share and teach what you have learned and updated about new instruction set extensions and features. Sharing and teaching can help you deepen your understanding, clarify your doubts, and reinforce your confidence. You can do this by writing articles, blogs, or posts, creating videos, podcasts, or courses, or giving presentations, webinars, or workshops. You can also do this by participating in discussions, forums, or Q&A sites, answering questions, giving feedback, or providing tips. By sharing and teaching, you can also contribute to the community, network with others, and learn from their experiences and perspectives.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?