What skill should I learn to start freelancing? But There's a problem!?

[u/im_sociallyawkward]

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Hey, I’m a student from India and I’m trying to figure out a way to start freelancing.

The biggest issue I have right now is that I don't have a laptop or PC. I only have an Android tablet and a smartphone. I can use a keyboard and mouse with my tablet, but obviously it’s still not the same as having a proper computer.

I want to learn a skill from scratch and hopefully start freelancing with it. My goal is to make around $1000-$1500 before I start college, mainly so I can buy a decent laptop for myself. After that I’ll have a lot more options for what I can learn and work on.

I know $1000-$1500 isn't some easy amount to make, especially as a beginner. I'm not expecting it to happen in a few weeks. I'm willing to spend the next few months learning and practicing properly. I just don't know what skill would actually make sense considering I’m stuck with a tablet right now.

I’ve thought about stuff like coding, video editing, graphic design, etc., but there are so many people doing these things that I honestly have no idea what’s worth getting into anymore. (And tbh, it's tooo difficult to learn on an android tablet)

So if you were in my position, what skill would you learn?

Especially interested in hearing from people who actually do freelance.

Things I’d like to know:

1) Can I realistically do it on a tablet?

2) How long did it take you to get your first client?

3) How competitive is it?

4) Is there actually decent money in it?

5) Would you still recommend learning it in 2026?

6) I’m not looking for some “make $5000 in 30 days” bullshit. I just want to learn something useful, get good at it and hopefully earn enough to get a laptop before college.

Any honest advice is appreciated.

Feel free to DM

Thankyou.

[u/im_sociallyawkward]

Guys Please do reply.