Answer 1

Pick a project you really like:

• Parsing mathematical expressions
• Simple game
• Handy webcrawler
• Chemical reaction equilibrium program
• Random melody generator
• Anything else you're passionate about...

It should be interesting enough to cheer you on when you're tired.

Use a language you're comfortable with and just start working on your project. Make sure to read all the documentation you need and just trial and error until you get it.

Best of luck to you on your endeavours.