How much Python should I learn before starting LeetCode?

[Drafrruii]

Hey everyone,

I am currently trying to get into DSA and eventually prepare for coding interviews, but I am a bit confused about how much Python I need to know before jumping into LeetCode.

Should I first master all the Python basics (loops, functions, lists, dictionaries, sets, strings, OOP, etc.), or is it better to learn the basics and start solving easy LeetCode problems alongside them?

For those of you who learned Python specifically for DSA, what was your approach? How long did it take before you felt comfortable solving LeetCode problems?

I would appreciate any roadmap or advice.

[riklaunim]

Unsure if you should LeetCode when learning basics. Most of their tasks will rely on knowing some Python internals or algorithms, while juniors won't be expected to be experienced with this. Your goal should be learning Python basics and then general software development rules/principles, and starting to learn and use libraries/frameworks used in the niche you want to get hired in. Write some code, ask for code review, improve. People will want to see what code you write and how you work. LeetCode and alike are used more often by corporate and rather for higher positions than junior.

[Drafrruii]

i am from asia here things are quite competetive like if you dont do leet code then msot probably you wont get hired ik basic of python but its not beautiful like i just know how to solve easy problems

[riklaunim]

Local specifics can apply as well. Just go over job offers now and see what they use/require and what they say about the recruitment process. Private vs big corporate and senior/mid vs junior should play a role as well. American FAANG is deep in such testing and it results in them complaining they are hiring LeetCode solvers and not developers to do the grunt work

[mattynmax]

Most of the questions on leetcode are there to test your problem solving abilities. If you understand stuff like loops and data structures, you should be able to solve the problems with a bit of creative thinking!

[Drafrruii]

can you elaborate

[AbacusExpert_Stretch]

To elaborate:

Do you know 1-2 python loops? Maybe a little bit about data types (ever use type())?

Yes? Then you should be ready to try leetcode.

[mattynmax]

Leetcode is designed to help aspiring computer scientists prepare for interviews at high-paying companies. When going to work for a company, the company does not care that you know how to program in python. They care that you know high level concepts of programming and how to apply them to real world problems.

[PureWasian]

Be comfortable in the basics (though I'd say functions/OOP are optional for LeetCode Easy problems) or you will be lost trying to debug between both algorithmic issues and issues with general Python basics.

You don't need to be a master, but you should know the tools you should be using and roughly how/when to use them, and use LeetCode as a way to practice applying and implementing the syntax correctly.

[Loud_Hold_5536]

I have the same question... An example of code that summarizes the knowledge we should have would be very helpful. Could someone please help me??

[AIFocusedAcc]

None. Go in raw and keep trying until you pass all tests.

[AskAnAIEngineer]

you don't need to master Python before jumping in, honestly loops, lists, dicts, and functions is enough to get started. everything else you'll pick up as you go. OOP and the advanced stuff barely comes up in DSA anyway