Tricks to improving your data structure and algorithms skills- Part One
Hello! Please, have a seat and let's get started. We all know someone who boasts about solving over 300 coding problems, but when it comes to interviews, they fall short. Have you ever wondered what could be the issue? If you're feeling scared, having only solved 20 coding problems and unsure about your ability to learn Data Structures and Algorithms, you've come to the right place.
I want you to know that you're not alone, and we'll learn together. One thing I've learned is that it's always better to focus on quality over quantity and be consistent in your efforts.
First, let's address your mindset. You need to understand that interviews require a deep understanding of problem-solving and the ability to code quickly and accurately. Believe in yourself, you are capable of learning anything. Your journey is unique and different from others. Secondly, think about why you're learning this, write it down, and refer back to it when things get tough. Remember, this is a journey, not a sprint. Thirdly, create a learning plan and make sure to set realistic goals. For example, solving three problems a day might not be feasible with other commitments. When you set achievable goals, it becomes easier to form habits and stay consistent. Just like we tend to eat junk food more often because it's more appealing.
Finally, when learning here are some tips that can help you:
Start with the basics: Begin by understanding the basic concepts, such as arrays, linked lists, and trees. Make sure you have a solid foundation before moving on to more complex topics.
Practice, practice, practice: Solving problems is the best way to learn Data Structures and Algorithms. You can find many online platforms with coding challenges, such as LeetCode and HackerRank, to practice your skills.
Visualize the data structures: Try to visualize the data structures you're learning, such as linked lists and trees. This will help you understand the concepts better and remember them longer.
Write code: Writing code is an essential part of learning Data Structures and Algorithms. Try to implement the concepts you've learned in your own code, rather than just reading about them.
Use resources: Take advantage of online resources, such as tutorials, videos, and books, to deepen your understanding of the concepts.
Learn from others: Join online communities, such as forums and groups, where you can ask questions, share your progress, and learn from others who are also learning Data Structures and Algorithms.
Don't get discouraged: Learning Data Structures and Algorithms can be challenging, but don't get discouraged if you don't get it right away. Keep practicing and learning, and you'll eventually get there.
Work on real-world problems: Try to apply the concepts you've learned to real-world problems, such as finding the shortest path between two nodes in a graph or sorting a large dataset. This will help you understand the practical applications of Data Structures and Algorithms.
I would be sharing more tips on how to solve problems.