Mastering Logic Building and Problem Solving in DSA (Java/Python)
STEP 1: Get Your Basics Clear
- Learn syntax and control structures (loops, conditionals, functions, recursion).
- Practice dry running code.
Resources:
- Python: learnpython.org | Java: W3Schools
- Book: "Think Like a Programmer" by V. Anton Spraul
STEP 2: Master Patterns & Build Logic
- Learn patterns: Two pointers, Sliding window, Recursion, Hashing, Binary search.
Resources:
- YouTube: Take U Forward, NeetCode.io
- GitHub: Leetcode Patterns
STEP 3: Data Structures Mastery
- Learn Arrays, Linked Lists, Stacks, Queues, Hash Maps, Trees, Graphs, Heaps, Tries, DP.
Resources:
- GeeksforGeeks, Abdul Bari (YouTube), Karumanchi's DSA book
STEP 4: Practice Daily - But Smartly
- Balanced routine: 60% easy, 30% medium, 10% hard.
Resources:
- Leetcode, Codeforces, GFG, A2Z DSA Sheet
STEP 5: Master Recursion & Dynamic Programming
- Understand recursive tree, memoization, tabulation.
Resources:
- Aditya Verma DP playlist, Leetcode DP tag
STEP 6: Track Your Growth
- Use Notion or spreadsheets to log progress.
- Weekly reviews, flashcards for patterns.
BONUS: Interview Prep
- Focus on time-space complexity, mock interviews.
Resources:
- Cracking the Coding Interview, Grokking the Coding Interview
Mindset & Tips:
- Learn in public, teach others, compete, visualize, and solve 1-2 hard problems weekly.