Full
0- Like It
This is the main stage of them all. Without this stage, no other one would be reached. You have to experience a work with your senses like it first. If that does not happen, you will never be pulled to the other stages.
1- Copy It
This allows the brain to see and go through dozens of different complete examples that work some of which could be very good models to follow later on. It helps accumulate a wealth of examples upon which to build on later. It also lets the brain practice by burning in the whole process of creating a complete work. It is the best kind of practice a beginner can get. You use books to copy examples from. Courses can also use copying as a means of making you practice.
2- Modify It
Now you have accumulated a wealth of examples and have trained your hands on copying them. It is time for putting your own touches. You start experimenting by modifying things here and there and watch how that affects the final work. You learn from this. It is trial and error.
3- Build It
You create your own work from scratch. This also involved a lot of trial and error. Friends can also help you in this stage when stuck with a problem that you find difficult to solve.
4- Engineer It
You build on the experience you’ve gained. You start invisioning whole systems before you embark on creating them. The path is so clear ahead of you; you know what you are doing. Books and courses could provide you with off-the-shelf experience gleaned from others. Books can provide you with best practices.