Feeling discouraged while solving problems on code forces

  • Date : September 18, 2024
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Feeling Discouraged While Solving Problems on Codeforces

Hi everyone! Today, I want to share a personal journey that many of you might resonate with. As a second-year student who is not pursuing Computer Science, I’ve taken the initiative to learn Data Structures and Algorithms (DSA) on my own. I’ve been following the Striver DSA sheet, which is quite popular among aspiring coders, but I find myself feeling a bit lost and discouraged.

The Journey So Far

Despite my efforts, I’ve only managed to complete about 10% of the problems on the Striver DSA sheet. When I sit down to practice, I often turn to platforms like CodeChef, Codeforces, and LeetCode, but I struggle to solve even a single problem. It’s disheartening to see others progressing while I feel stuck. This struggle has led me to question my abilities and wonder if I’m cut out for coding at all.

The Challenge of Problem Solving

Problem-solving can be daunting, especially when you’re just starting out. It requires not just knowledge of algorithms and data structures but also the ability to think critically and creatively under pressure. The competitive programming environment can be especially intimidating—seeing others solve problems quickly can lead to feelings of inadequacy.

Seeking Guidance

So, what can I do to overcome this hurdle? I decided to reach out to the community for advice and encouragement. Here are some of the top suggestions I received:

  1. Start with the Basics: It’s important to build a solid foundation before diving into complex problems. Focus on understanding the fundamental concepts of DSA. Don’t rush through the problems; take your time to grasp the underlying principles.

  2. Practice Regularly: Consistency is key in coding. Set aside dedicated time each day or week to practice coding problems. Even solving one problem a day can lead to significant improvement over time.

  3. Join Study Groups: Collaborating with peers can be incredibly beneficial. Join study groups or online forums where you can discuss problems, share solutions, and learn from one another.

  4. Learn from Solutions: If you’re stuck on a problem, don’t hesitate to look at the solutions. Understanding how others approach the same problem can provide valuable insights and improve your problem-solving skills.

  5. Participate in Contests: Engaging in coding contests can be a great way to challenge yourself and apply what you’ve learned in a timed environment. Start with beginner-friendly contests and gradually work your way up.

  6. Stay Positive: Remember that everyone’s learning journey is unique. It’s normal to face challenges and setbacks. Staying positive and persistent is crucial.

Conclusion

Feeling discouraged while learning to code is something many of us experience. The key is to recognize that progress takes time and effort. By following a structured approach, seeking guidance, and engaging with the community, you can overcome these challenges and become a better coder.

If you’re in a similar situation or have any tips to share, I’d love to hear from you in the comments below! Let’s support each other on this journey to becoming the best coders we can be. 💪💻

Feel free to share your thoughts or additional tips in the comments section! Let’s uplift one another and make this learning experience enjoyable.

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