Before learning to code, pick a good computer and editor — first sharpen your tools.
Tips
history
Second half of Confucius' saying in 《论语·卫灵公》 (Analects, Wei Ling Gong): 工欲善其事,必先利其器 — 'An artisan who wants to do his work well must first sharpen his tools.' The two halves often appear separately; this half is the more actionable punchline.
usage
Paired couplet — the complete form is 工欲善其事,必先利其器. Using just the second half assumes the listener knows the first. Common in tech/business rhetoric about investing in equipment, training, or infrastructure before tackling a task.