The sense that the platform's interface (API, dashboard, Docs) create an interface of which I can gain a solid mental model. A "solid mental model" is knowledge

The sense that the platform's interface (API, dashboard, Docs) create an interface of which I can gain a solid mental model. A "solid mental model" is knowledge which enables me to predict how the platform would my code/actions would make the platform behave, to feel confident in those predictions, and to be correct. Why does this draw me to a platform? Because it leads me to think that I'll be able to use it to solve business problems[1] despite having non-infinite mental abilities[2]. That includes the ability to communicate about timelines with stakeholders. What makes me think that about a platform? - Well-written documentation, with appropriate amounts of the 4 types of docs: tutorials, model explanations, how-to guides, and references.[3] - If applicable, docs which show how to write automated tests with the platform. - Interfaces which do a good job of containing complexity. The information they require me to learn "pays its rent" for the space it takes up in my mind. The modules are deep enough to have solved problems that would otherwise take up my time.[4] - An active community so that StackOverflow has a body of high-quality questions and answers. [1] see https://www.kalzumeus.com/2011/10/28/dont-call-yourself-a-programmer/ https://www.kalzumeus.com/2011/10/28/dont-call-yourself-a-pr... [2] see https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=21303314 https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=21303314 [3] see https://www.divio.com/blog/documentation/ https://www.divio.com/blog/documentation/ [4] see https://www.amazon.co.uk/Philosophy-Software-Design-John-Ousterhout-ebook/dp/B07N1XLQ7D/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0 https://www.amazon.co.uk/Philosophy-Software-Design-John-Ous... a concise book which is worth the £8 and 150 pages.