How to increase programming skills

1.First the problem must be analyzed properly and clearly.

2.Think twice how to solve the problem efficiently.

3.Gather complete requirements.

4.Write a thorough implementation plan (or model).

5.Comment code liberally.

6.Use consistent naming conventions for variables.

7.Organize the code.

8.Test everything.
Test each module on it's own, using inputs and values that are expected one. Then try inputs that are possible but less common.

9.Practice, practice, practice.
There's always something new to learn, and - perhaps more importantly - always something old to relearn.

10.Be prepared for change.

11.Start simple and work towards complexity.