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How a computer programmer can use AI, task by task

O*NET 15-1251.00: Computer ProgrammersMedian pay $100,390/year (BLS, May 2025)17 tasksJob Zone 4: Considerable preparation

Create, modify, and test the code and scripts that allow computer applications to run. Work from specifications drawn up by software and web developers or other individuals. May develop and write computer programs to store, locate, and retrieve specific documents, data, and information.

Type your own title and every prompt on this page updates to match. Also called: Analyst Programmer, Application Programmer Analyst, Computer Programmer, Computer Programmer Analyst, Internet Programmer, Java Developer, Programmer, Programmer Analyst, Web Applications Programmer, Web Programmer.

Where AI fits in this job

AI-ready 37%AI-assist 57%Stays human 6%

Share of the job's tasks, weighted by how important and how frequent each task is (O*NET ratings). 5 AI-ready, 10 AI-assist and 2 human-led tasks out of 17. This measures where AI can help, not whether the job will disappear.

Information & paperwork
Thinking & planning
People & communication
Leading & teaching
Hands-on & physical

Shape of the job: importance of each kind of work activity (O*NET, 1 to 5).

💪 Lean into these

Core tasks that stay human. These skills get more valuable as the routine work gets automated.

  1. Assign, coordinate, and review work and activities of programming personnel.Lead people · Weekly
  2. Collaborate with computer manufacturers and other users to develop new programming methods.Lead people · Monthly

AI can draft these 5

AI produces a usable first pass. You review it, fix it and own it.

Write, analyze, review, and rewrite programs, using workflow chart and diagram, and applying knowledge of computer capabilities, subject matter, and symbolic logic.

Daily

AI writes, explains and tests code you review.

📊 Real AI use (Anthropic Economic Index, Apr 2026 to May 2026): AI completed the task directly in 62% of those conversations; the rest were back-and-forth with the person.

Show prompt & steps

AI coding assistants can write, explain, test and refactor code from a plain description. You review, test and own what ships.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a computer programmer. Part of my job is to write, analyze, review, and rewrite programs, using workflow chart and diagram, and applying knowledge of computer capabilities, subject matter, and symbolic logic.

Context: We use Microsoft Azure software and Microsoft Visual Studio; the work draws on computers and electronics, engineering and technology and mathematics.
Language and context: [language, existing code]
Goal: [what it should do]
Constraints: [style, performance, security]

Propose an approach, then write the code with comments and tests. Propose the approach first, then the code with comments and tests, and point out security risks.

10-minute exercise: Write code

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you write, analyze, review, and rewrite programs (today).
Step 2Fill in [Language and context], [Goal] and [Constraints] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Run the tests yourself and read every line before merging.

Don't paste secrets, passwords or proprietary code into tools your employer hasn't approved.

Importance 4.4/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Write computer programming code.. Also involves: Modify software programs to improve performance..

Write, update, and maintain computer programs or software packages to handle specific jobs such as tracking inventory, storing or retrieving data, or controlling other equipment.

Daily

AI writes, explains and tests code you review.

📊 Real AI use (Anthropic Economic Index, Apr 2026 to May 2026): AI completed the task directly in 72% of those conversations; the rest were back-and-forth with the person.

Show prompt & steps

AI coding assistants can write, explain, test and refactor code from a plain description. You review, test and own what ships.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a computer programmer. Part of my job is to write, update, and maintain computer programs or software packages to handle specific jobs such as tracking inventory, storing or retrieving data, or controlling other equipment.

Context: We use Microsoft Azure software and Microsoft Visual Studio; the work draws on computers and electronics, engineering and technology and mathematics.
Language and context: [language, existing code]
Goal: [what it should do]
Constraints: [style, performance, security]

Propose an approach, then write the code with comments and tests. Propose the approach first, then the code with comments and tests, and point out security risks.

10-minute exercise: Write code

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you write, update, and maintain computer programs or software packages (today).
Step 2Fill in [Language and context], [Goal] and [Constraints] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Run the tests yourself and read every line before merging.

Don't paste secrets, passwords or proprietary code into tools your employer hasn't approved.

Importance 4.2/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Write computer programming code.. Also involves: Modify software programs to improve performance..

Conduct trial runs of programs and software applications to be sure they will produce the desired information and that the instructions are correct.

Weekly

AI writes, explains and tests code you review.

📊 Real AI use (Anthropic Economic Index, Apr 2026 to May 2026): AI completed the task directly in 90% of those conversations; the rest were back-and-forth with the person. This label was updated from real usage data.

Show prompt & steps

AI coding assistants can write, explain, test and refactor code from a plain description. You review, test and own what ships.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a computer programmer. Part of my job is to conduct trial runs of programs and software applications to be sure they will produce the desired information and that the instructions are correct.

Context: We use Microsoft Azure software and Microsoft Visual Studio; the work draws on computers and electronics, engineering and technology and mathematics.
Software: [describe the feature or change]
Acceptance criteria: [what it must do]

Write test cases (normal, edge, error) and automated test code where it fits. Propose the approach first, then the code with comments and tests, and point out security risks.

10-minute exercise: Software test cases

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you conduct trial runs of programs and software applications (this week).
Step 2Fill in [Software] and [Acceptance criteria] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Run the tests and review every line.

Don't paste secrets, passwords or proprietary code into tools your employer hasn't approved.

Importance 4.0/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Test software performance..

Compile and write documentation of program development and subsequent revisions, inserting comments in the coded instructions so others can understand the program.

Weekly

AI writes the first draft from your notes; you check every fact.

📊 Real AI use (Anthropic Economic Index, Apr 2026 to May 2026): AI completed the task directly in 74% of those conversations; the rest were back-and-forth with the person.

Show prompt & steps

Give AI your rough notes, numbers or last version and it will turn them into a clean, well-structured first draft. You check every fact and figure before it goes anywhere.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a computer programmer. Part of my job is to compile and write documentation of program development and subsequent revisions, inserting comments in the coded instructions so others can understand the program.

Context: We use Microsoft SharePoint and Microsoft Word.
Project: [system or program]
Changes or procedures: [paste notes, commit summaries]

Draft documentation: overview, procedures, revision history and known issues. Use plain language and headings where they help, and mark anything you had to guess with [CHECK].

10-minute exercise: Development documentation

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you compile and write documentation of program development and subsequent revisions (this week).
Step 2Fill in [Project] and [Changes or procedures] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check it against the code or system as it actually works today.

AI will happily make up numbers, names and dates. Every fact in the draft needs checking against your source.

Importance 3.6/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Document design or development procedures..

Write or contribute to instructions or manuals to guide end users.

Monthly

AI turns complex material into plain-language handouts.

Show prompt & steps

AI is great at turning complicated material into plain-language guides, handouts, FAQs and how-tos for a specific audience. You check it's accurate.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a computer programmer. Part of my job is to write or contribute to instructions or manuals to guide end users.

Context: The work draws on computers and electronics, engineering and technology and mathematics.
Product or system: [describe]
Users: [skill level]
Steps: [rough notes]

Write step-by-step instructions with screenshots to take and troubleshooting tips. Use plain language, one everyday analogy, and the questions people are most likely to ask with short answers.

10-minute exercise: User instructions

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you write or contribute to instructions or manuals.
Step 2Fill in [Product or system], [Users] and [Steps] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Have a new user follow it and fix where they get stuck.

Rules, prices and policies change. Make sure AI is working from your current official version.

Importance 3.3/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Prepare instruction manuals..

AI can help you prep these 10

AI speeds up the prep, drafting or thinking. The core of the task is still yours.

Correct errors by making appropriate changes and rechecking the program to ensure that the desired results are produced.

Daily

AI drafts scripts and configs; design and security are yours.

📊 Real AI use (Anthropic Economic Index, Apr 2026 to May 2026): AI completed the task directly in 74% of those conversations; the rest were back-and-forth with the person.

Show prompt & steps

AI can draft configurations, scripts and test cases and explain unfamiliar systems. Architecture and security decisions need your expertise.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a computer programmer. Part of my job is to correct errors by making appropriate changes and rechecking the program to ensure that the desired results are produced.

Context: We use Microsoft Azure software and Microsoft Visual Studio; the work draws on computers and electronics, engineering and technology and mathematics.
Software: [describe the feature or change]
Acceptance criteria: [what it must do]

Write test cases (normal, edge, error) and automated test code where it fits. Propose the approach first, then the code with comments and tests, and point out security risks.

10-minute exercise: Software test cases

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you correct errors (today).
Step 2Fill in [Software] and [Acceptance criteria] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Run the tests and review every line.

Don't paste secrets, passwords or proprietary code into tools your employer hasn't approved.

Importance 4.4/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Test software performance.. Also involves: Resolve computer software problems..

Perform or direct revision, repair, or expansion of existing programs to increase operating efficiency or adapt to new requirements.

Daily

AI drafts scripts and configs; design and security are yours.

📊 Real AI use (Anthropic Economic Index, Apr 2026 to May 2026): AI completed the task directly in 66% of those conversations; the rest were back-and-forth with the person.

Show prompt & steps

AI can draft configurations, scripts and test cases and explain unfamiliar systems. Architecture and security decisions need your expertise.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a computer programmer. Part of my job is to perform or direct revision, repair, or expansion of existing programs to increase operating efficiency or adapt to new requirements.

Context: We use Microsoft Azure software and Microsoft Visual Studio; the work draws on computers and electronics, engineering and technology and mathematics.
Program: [what it does now]
Change: [new purpose or improvement]

Propose changes, write the diff with tests. Propose the approach first, then the code with comments and tests, and point out security risks.

10-minute exercise: Modify a program

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you perform or direct revision, repair and expansion of existing programs (today).
Step 2Fill in [Program] and [Change] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Run the tests yourself and read every line before you'd use it.

Don't paste secrets, passwords or proprietary code into tools your employer hasn't approved.

Importance 4.4/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Modify software programs to improve performance..

Consult with managerial, engineering, and technical personnel to clarify program intent, identify problems, and suggest changes.

Weekly

AI drafts clear messages and talking points.

Show prompt & steps

AI can draft updates, emails and talking points so your message is clear and complete. Relationships and real-time calls are yours.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a computer programmer. Part of my job is to consult with managerial, engineering, and technical personnel to clarify program intent, identify problems, and suggest changes.

Issue: [describe]
Who: [vendors, project staff]

Draft a message with facts and needed actions. Keep it under 150 words with a clear ask, plus a 2-sentence version for chat.

10-minute exercise: IT issue collaboration

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you consult with managerial (this week). Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Issue] and [Who] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Edit it until it sounds like you, then send it yourself.

Never let AI send messages for you. Read every word, because tone mistakes cost trust.

Importance 4.0/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Collaborate with others to resolve information technology issues..

Prepare detailed workflow charts and diagrams that describe input, output, and logical operation, and convert them into a series of instructions coded in a computer language.

Weekly

AI generates options and references; taste and the final call are yours.

📊 Real AI use (Anthropic Economic Index, Apr 2026 to May 2026): AI completed the task directly in 49% of those conversations; the rest were back-and-forth with the person.

Show prompt & steps

Use AI to generate lots of options, references and rough mock-ups fast. The craft, the taste and the final call are what make it yours.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a computer programmer. Part of my job is to prepare detailed workflow charts and diagrams that describe input, output, and logical operation, and convert them into a series of instructions coded in a computer language.

Context: We use Structured query language SQL and Extensible markup language XML; the work draws on computers and electronics, engineering and technology and mathematics.
System: [security, software, process]
Goals: [what it must do]

Describe the flowchart steps and decision points. Give 10 quite different options from safe to bold, then develop the best 2.

10-minute exercise: Flowchart or system diagram

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you prepare detailed workflow charts and diagrams (this week).
Step 2Fill in [System] and [Goals] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Pick the idea that sparks something and develop it yourself for 5 minutes.

Check the usage rules for AI images and text in your field, and make sure the final work is original.

Importance 3.6/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Develop diagrams or flow charts of system operation.. Also involves: Develop models of information or communications systems..

Consult with and assist computer operators or system analysts to define and resolve problems in running computer programs.

Weekly

AI drafts clear messages and talking points.

Show prompt & steps

AI can draft updates, emails and talking points so your message is clear and complete. Relationships and real-time calls are yours.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a computer programmer. Part of my job is to consult with and assist computer operators or system analysts to define and resolve problems in running computer programs.

Issue: [describe]
Who: [vendors, project staff]

Draft a message with facts and needed actions. Keep it under 150 words with a clear ask, plus a 2-sentence version for chat.

10-minute exercise: IT issue collaboration

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you consult with assist computer operators or system analysts (this week).
Step 2Fill in [Issue] and [Who] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Edit it until it sounds like you, then send it yourself.

Never let AI send messages for you. Read every word, because tone mistakes cost trust.

Importance 3.5/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Collaborate with others to resolve information technology issues..

Perform systems analysis and programming tasks to maintain and control the use of computer systems software as a systems programmer.

Weekly

AI drafts scripts and configs; design and security are yours.

Show prompt & steps

AI can draft configurations, scripts and test cases and explain unfamiliar systems. Architecture and security decisions need your expertise.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a computer programmer. Part of my job is to perform systems analysis and programming tasks to maintain and control the use of computer systems software as a systems programmer.

Context: We use Microsoft Azure software and Microsoft Visual Studio; the work draws on computers and electronics, engineering and technology and mathematics.
System: [application, network, data processing]
Risks: [what could fail]

Write test cases covering function, performance and security, with expected results and scripts. Propose the approach first, then the code with comments and tests, and point out security risks.

10-minute exercise: System test plan

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you perform systems analysis and programming tasks (this week).
Step 2Fill in [System] and [Risks] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Run the tests yourself and read every line before you'd use it.

Don't paste secrets, passwords or proprietary code into tools your employer hasn't approved.

Importance 3.3/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Test computer system operations to ensure proper functioning..

Investigate whether networks, workstations, the central processing unit of the system, or peripheral equipment are responding to a program's instructions.

Weekly

AI drafts scripts and configs; design and security are yours.

📊 Real AI use (Anthropic Economic Index, Apr 2026 to May 2026): AI completed the task directly in 97% of those conversations; the rest were back-and-forth with the person.

Show prompt & steps

AI can draft configurations, scripts and test cases and explain unfamiliar systems. Architecture and security decisions need your expertise.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a computer programmer. Part of my job is to investigate whether networks, workstations, the central processing unit of the system, or peripheral equipment are responding to a program's instructions.

Context: We use Microsoft Azure software and Microsoft Visual Studio; the work draws on computers and electronics, engineering and technology and mathematics.
System: [application, network, data processing]
Risks: [what could fail]

Write test cases covering function, performance and security, with expected results and scripts. Propose the approach first, then the code with comments and tests, and point out security risks.

10-minute exercise: System test plan

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you investigate whether networks, workstations and the central processing unit (this week).
Step 2Fill in [System] and [Risks] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Run the tests yourself and read every line before you'd use it.

Don't paste secrets, passwords or proprietary code into tools your employer hasn't approved.

Importance 3.3/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Test computer system operations to ensure proper functioning..

Train users on the use and function of computer programs.

Monthly

AI preps the materials; reading the room is you.

Show prompt & steps

AI preps the materials: lesson outlines, quizzes, examples, practice scenarios. Reading the room and coaching people is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a computer programmer. Part of my job is to train users on the use and function of computer programs.

Context: We use Microsoft PowerPoint; the work draws on computers and electronics, engineering and technology and mathematics.
Hardware: [describe]
Users: [describe]

Plan a session and quick guide. Include timings, a realistic practice scenario from my work, and a short check for understanding with answers.

10-minute exercise: Hardware training

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you train users.
Step 2Fill in [Hardware] and [Users] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Test the guide with a new user.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 3.0/5 · O*NET work activity: Teach others to use computer equipment or hardware.. Also involves: Train others in computer interface or software use..

Develop Web sites.

Weekly

AI drafts scripts and configs; design and security are yours.

📊 Real AI use (Anthropic Economic Index, Apr 2026 to May 2026): AI completed the task directly in 52% of those conversations; the rest were back-and-forth with the person.

Show prompt & steps

AI can draft configurations, scripts and test cases and explain unfamiliar systems. Architecture and security decisions need your expertise.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a computer programmer. Part of my job is to develop Web sites.

Context: We use Microsoft Azure software and Microsoft Visual Studio; the work draws on computers and electronics, engineering and technology and mathematics.
App: [purpose, users]
Features: [list]
Stack: [tools]

Plan the structure and write starter code with tests. Propose the approach first, then the code with comments and tests, and point out security risks.

10-minute exercise: Build an app or site

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you develop Web sites (this week).
Step 2Fill in [App], [Features] and [Stack] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Run the tests yourself and read every line before you'd use it.

Don't paste secrets, passwords or proprietary code into tools your employer hasn't approved.

Importance 3.2/5 · O*NET work activity: Develop computer or online applications.. Also involves: Design websites or web applications..

Train subordinates in programming and program coding.

Monthly

AI preps the materials; reading the room is you.

📊 Real AI use (Anthropic Economic Index, Apr 2026 to May 2026): AI completed the task directly in 41% of those conversations; the rest were back-and-forth with the person.

Show prompt & steps

AI preps the materials: lesson outlines, quizzes, examples, practice scenarios. Reading the room and coaching people is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a computer programmer. Part of my job is to train subordinates in programming and program coding.

Context: We use Microsoft PowerPoint and Structured query language SQL; the work draws on computers and electronics, engineering and technology and mathematics.
System: [describe]
Users: [describe]

Plan training with hands-on tasks and a cheat sheet. Include timings, a realistic practice scenario from my work, and a short check for understanding with answers.

10-minute exercise: Software training

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you train subordinates.
Step 2Fill in [System] and [Users] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check users can complete a real task.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 3.5/5 · O*NET work activity: Train others in computer interface or software use..

These stay human 2

They need your hands, your presence or your accountable judgment. Lean into them: they get more valuable as routine work is automated.

📏 Measured in this job (O*NET work context): Face-to-face discussions: every day · Contact with others: contact with others most of the time

Assign, coordinate, and review work and activities of programming personnel.

Weekly

Leading people runs on trust. AI can prep the paperwork around it.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI can prep the paperwork around leading: meeting agendas, feedback drafts, rotas, briefings and difficult-conversation rehearsals.

Prep prompt

I work as a computer programmer. Part of my job is to assign, coordinate, and review work and activities of programming personnel.

Context: The work draws on computers and electronics, engineering and technology and mathematics.
Team: [project team, support staff]
Issue or goal: [describe]

Help me prepare: the key message in 2 sentences, what good looks like, how people might react and how I'll respond, and one thing I'll check next week.

10-minute exercise: Leading an IT team

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you assign, coordinate, and review work and activities of programming personnel (this week). Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Team] and [Issue or goal] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Afterward, note one thing people responded to and one thing you'd change.

Importance 3.2/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Supervise information technology personnel.. Also involves: Assign duties or work schedules to employees.; Manage information technology projects or system activities..

Collaborate with computer manufacturers and other users to develop new programming methods.

Monthly

Leading people runs on trust. AI can prep the paperwork around it.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI can prep the paperwork around leading: meeting agendas, feedback drafts, rotas, briefings and difficult-conversation rehearsals.

Prep prompt

I work as a computer programmer. Part of my job is to collaborate with computer manufacturers and other users to develop new programming methods.

Context: The work draws on computers and electronics, engineering and technology and mathematics.
Project: [describe]
Teams: [describe]

Plan coordination and decisions needed. Give me the key message in 2 sentences, how people might react, and how to respond to each.

10-minute exercise: Cross-team project coordination

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you collaborate with computer manufacturers and other users.
Step 2Fill in [Project] and [Teams] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Afterward, note one thing people responded to and one thing you'd change.

Importance 2.8/5 · O*NET work activity: Coordinate project activities with other personnel or departments..

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Your next moves

Skills to build

From O*NET's ratings of how important each skill is in this job, matched to which part of the work it supports.

With AI Use these to work with AI

When AI does the first draft, these are the skills you use to brief it and check what comes back.

  • Critical Thinkingimportance 3.8/5
    Used in: Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials
  • Quality Control Analysisimportance 3.5/5
    Used in: Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials
  • Programmingimportance 4.8/5
    Used in: Working with Computers
  • Reading Comprehensionimportance 3.4/5
    Used in: Working with Computers

Where you could move

Related jobs from O*NET with the closest skill profile, favouring ones where more of the work stays human. No step down in preparation.

  • Blockchain Engineers0% human-led · Same preparation · $116,580/yr · usually bachelor's degreeSkills to build: Reading Comprehension, Judgment and Decision Making, Writing
  • Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers7% human-led · Same preparation · $104,300/yr · usually bachelor's degreeSkills to build: Monitoring, Writing, Speaking
  • Computer and Information Systems Managers30% human-led · Same preparation · $175,140/yr · usually bachelor's degreeSkills to build: Management of Financial Resources, Monitoring, Negotiation
  • Data Scientists8% human-led · Same preparation · $120,230/yrSkills to build: Mathematics, Active Learning, Reading Comprehension

Getting into this job

Bachelor's degree is most common (88% of workers)

  • Certificate or some college 3%
  • Associate's 9%
  • Bachelor's 88%
  • On-the-job training: 3–6 months
  • Related experience: 2–4 years

What workers in this job report, from O*NET surveys (typical values).

Software in this job

In-demand tools from O*NET. Many now have AI built in, so check what yours can do before adding a new tool.

Adobe AcrobatAdobe IllustratorAdobe PhotoshopAJAXAmazon DynamoDBAmazon Elastic Compute Cloud EC2Amazon RedshiftAmazon Web Services AWS CloudFormationAmazon Web Services AWS softwareAnsible softwareApache CassandraApache Hadoop