Is it normal to feel so dumb

Is it normal to feel so dumb?

Is It Normal to Feel So Dumb? A Journey Through the 75 LeetCode Challenge

Introduction

If you’re venturing into the world of algorithmic challenges, particularly through the LeetCode platform, you might find yourself experiencing moments of self-doubt. As someone studying business informatics in your sixth semester, it’s completely understandable to feel overwhelmed, especially when tackling your first few problems in the 75 LeetCode challenge. This post aims to normalize those feelings of frustration, share insights from others who have been in your shoes, and provide encouragement to persevere.

The Struggle Is Real

Many who embark on coding challenges often feel like they’re not cut out for this line of work. You’re not alone in feeling like a failure after needing help with the initial questions. The truth is, struggling with these problems is a common experience, even for those who have been practicing for a long time.

Is It Normal?

Absolutely! As one commenter noted, even after tackling 370 problems, they still felt dumb and had faced multiple interview failures. This market can be tough, and it can mess with your confidence. But here’s the catch: the more you practice, the better you get, much like in chess.

The Path to Improvement

  1. Learn from Solutions: When you find yourself stuck on a problem for 15-20 minutes, don’t hesitate to look at the solution. Understanding the approach is crucial. Once you grasp the solution, move on to the next question and repeat the process. Over time, you will start seeing patterns and similar approaches emerge.

  2. Focus on Coding Patterns: A highly effective strategy is to follow a coding patterns approach. Dedicate time to mastering one pattern at a time. This not only helps in understanding the concepts but also builds a solid foundation for tackling a variety of problems.

  3. Practice Makes Perfect: Remember, LeetCode is a marathon, not a sprint. Everyone starts slow. It’s not about how quickly you can solve problems but about the consistency in your practice. As one commenter mentioned, problems that once seemed insurmountable can become “cake walk” after hours of dedicated practice.

  4. Bridge the Knowledge Gap: If you’re consistently struggling, it might be a sign to revisit the fundamentals. Strengthening your understanding of data structures and algorithms (DS/A) can significantly improve your problem-solving abilities. Some have suggested taking a step back and completing a beginner programming course to solidify your foundational knowledge.

A Word of Encouragement

Feeling inadequate in the face of challenging problems can be disheartening. A comment reflecting on a past experience succinctly captured this sentiment: before engaging with LeetCode, one might feel above average, but the challenges can quickly alter that perception. The key is to persist.

Don’t let temporary setbacks define your abilities or potential. With time and consistent effort, you will see improvement.

Conclusion

Navigating the LeetCode challenges can be daunting, especially when you’re just starting. If you find yourself feeling dumb or questioning your abilities, remember that you’re not alone. Many have walked this path and emerged successful on the other side. Embrace the struggle, learn from it, and keep pushing forward. Improvement is not just possible; it’s inevitable with perseverance.

How Was It for You?

I invite you to share your experiences in tackling coding challenges. What strategies worked for you? How did you overcome the initial hurdles? Let’s support each other on this journey.

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