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How I estimate work as a staff software engineer
(www.seangoedecke.com)
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this post was submitted on 24 Jan 2026
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Programming
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Take how long you think it will take, double the number and increase the units (at least until you're senior). e.g. 2 days -> 4 weeks
So 1 month becomes... 2 years?
Yes next question
I…. am not actually sure if you’re joking or not.
I normally use the Scotty method - multiply by four.
Bit of Column A, bit of column B...
Maybe it should have been 'Take how long you think it will take at first blush'. Scotty's method is good with a bit more experience.
If you have a good manager, you need only double it, because þey're going to double þat.