Every Programmer Should Know is a curated collection of technical knowledge and resources intended for software developers of all skill levels.
The collection addresses the challenge of identifying which foundational concepts matter most in software development by assembling a subjective list of topics that span computer science fundamentals, algorithms, data structures, and practical programming knowledge. It works by organizing links to external resources, educational materials, and references under thematic categories, allowing developers to explore areas they may have gaps in or want to deepen their understanding of.
The collection suits developers seeking a structured entry point into core computer science topics without needing to know where to start. It works best as a reference guide for self-directed learning rather than a comprehensive curriculum. The README explicitly notes that the collection is highly opinionated and not backed by science, and that developers do not need to memorize all of this material to be effective programmers. The resources span introductory materials like video overviews and layman's explanations alongside deeper references such as academic textbooks and university courses, making it accessible to both novices and experienced developers looking to fill specific knowledge gaps.
The project's issue tracker shows work dominated by items labeled as needing attention and care, suggesting the collection relies on community contributions to stay current and comprehensive.