I have absolutely zero background or knowledge on coding/programming/IT/software/computing etc, but I’ve recently taken an interest in it. How much time, effort and resources would I need to sink into it in order to become at least borderline competent?
That depends on your aptitude. How much time would it take you to become proficient at a musical instrument, a new branch of mathematics, or a new language? Like these skills, pogramming isn’t a simple matter of memorization; it requires using your knowledge to problem-solve and create novel solutions. Naturally, your ability to do that and learn the syntax is what will determine the time and effort you’ll need to commit.
Sure, that goes without saying.
As a ballpark measure though, how long did it personally take you to become proficient at computers, top to bottom?