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Shivam Dhaka
Shivam Dhaka

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When to start learning DSA ? ๐Ÿš€

The most common question I get from students is,

  • How much should I learn a programming language before starting DSA ?
  • I canโ€™t start DSA because I am still learning a programming language.

Starting the preparation of DSA (Data Structures and Algorithms) seems like a daunting task. But what if I tell you, the only thing or letโ€™s say it โ€œthe prerequisiteโ€ which you need to learn is:

The basics of any programming language.

If you know the basics of any programming language, you are all set to learn DSA.


Does DSA not require advanced programming skills?

This is the natural question that comes into mind naturally, and to answer your question, YES, it requires advanced programming skills.

However, the best way to learn both of these things, to learn them together.
Youโ€™ll learn the programming language better if you are programming and writing code with your own two hands. And solving the DSA problem is the way to do that.


How can I solve a DSA problem, if I don't have the necessary language skills?

If you encounter a problem and donโ€™t know how to solve using your existing language skills, donโ€™t worry, just search for the way on the internet, watch a tutorial or ask ChatGPT. That way you will build your language skills along with your problem-solving skills which is required in DSA.

Now, the question that comes to mind is,

What is the basic level of any programming language that I mentioned ? What topics does it include ?

These are the basics topics to learn for any programming language:

  • Variables
  • Loops
  • Conditionals
  • Functions
  • Data types
  • Arrays

You can easily learn these topics in 2โ€“4 weeks, even if you are starting from scratch. And if you have already learned these topics, then what are we waiting for ?

Happy Coding !๐Ÿ€

Upcoming: How to actually start preparing for DSA ?
If you have any queries, don't hesitate to ask me. Click here to connect with me on LinkedIn.

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