Learning Plan for Beginners
Who Are Considered "Beginner Algorithm Learners"?
Practicing algorithms can be seen as a skill that requires separate training, unrelated to project experience or work history. Typically, one's "experience with practice problems" is used to determine if they are a beginner in algorithms.
Readers who are new to programming are definitely beginner algorithm learners; those with extensive development experience but who have never practiced algorithm problems before are also considered beginners.
For beginner algorithm learners with ample time, following the Main Site Directory in order will allow you to fully master data structures and all the skills for algorithm practice.
The introduction section at the beginning of each chapter will detail the reading methods for different readers, so please read it carefully.
Beginner Problem Set
This directory's problem set is integrated into the accompanying VSCode Plugin and JetBrains Plugin for your convenience during review:
How to Use the Problem Set
It's not recommended to start with the problem set directly. Its main purpose is for review. I suggest going through the site articles first, then using the problem set to assess your learning.
Beyond Solving Problems
I find algorithms particularly fascinating, especially for beginners, as they provide immediate positive feedback. Once you master an algorithm framework, you can easily tackle a slew of problems, which brings a strong sense of accomplishment.
I hope beginners can leverage this momentum to thoroughly grasp the basics of data structures and algorithms. This will save you a lot of trouble in the future, like when switching jobs, as you won't need to spend extra time preparing for algorithms because the problem-solving mindset will already be ingrained and won't fade.
Once you start working, you might not derive pleasure from problem-solving anymore. So for readers who wish for quick mastery after starting their jobs, there is a separate solution for quick mastery readers.
Besides solving problems, consider how the algorithmic thinking you've learned can be applied to real life. Can some life scenarios be abstracted into algorithmic problems? If you encounter a real problem, can you use the abstraction of algorithms to solve it through programming?
Readers who enjoy my tutorials definitely love thinking, otherwise, they wouldn't have the patience to read through hundreds of thousands of words on algorithms. However, all this thinking should eventually be put into practice.
Now, solving a few algorithm problems might make you happy, but once you master all the thinking methods discussed on this site, you'll find algorithm problems too simple, and such small accomplishments won't provide positive feedback anymore.
Therefore, I hope that through this learning process, you can develop the ability to actively engage in thinking and practice. Ultimately, apply these abilities to broader fields, maintain curiosity about new things, and always keep moving forward.