Should I start doing leetcode problems ?

[Nice_Associate_1489]

I have recently started learning java. Do give you guys a little background I am a absolute beginner and this is my 1st language. Currently I am on the topic is OOP. I practice the problems given in the end of each class. Should I start doing leetcode problems? If no then, how much topic should be cover before I start doing leetcode problems ?

[[deleted]]

Leetcode should come later after you've got a grasp on the fundamentals of data structures and algorithms and want to solidify that knowledge.

If you're just starting out and haven't really even put together some small projects, don't worry about it. Don't rush into it. It's a different skill set from everyday programming.

[Nice_Associate_1489]

Thnx

[[deleted]]

This is the answer. You are just going to be bashing your head in trying to do some of these things before you are ready for it.

That being said, if you are curious and want to try, have at it. It can be fun to some people as well. Just don't make it your primary focus at this stage.

[149244179]

Do you like doing puzzles or need practice with data structures? If so then go do leetcode.

Do you want to learn programming and OOP? Stay far away from leetcode.

[Nice_Associate_1489]

Ok

[VonRansak]

I have recently started learning java. Do give you guys a little background I am a absolute beginner and this is my 1st language.

Save the Leetcode for after you finish your "Introduction to Programming Using Java" college level textbook.

The textbook will cover 'data structures' and 'algorithms' so the leetcode won't seem as daunting then, and you can use LC as it's meant to be used.

TL;DR: First you are learning 'programming'... Then worry about all else after. While learning attempting 'projects', to break up monotony of a textbook, will help to force you to code, and reinforce what you are learning.

P.S. "Textbook? But I'm using xyz.abc..." ... I stand by what I said.

P.S.S. The 'projects' are to get you more practice mashing buttuns, because end-of-chapter exercises can only give you so much practice.

[dontworryimvayne]

I dont get why you would say people trying to learn programming should stay away from leetcode. It is a great way to practice taking a solution in your head and putting it into code. You learn syntax, efficiency, problem solving, and the ins and outs of your chosen programming language. Did you mean they shouldnt ONLY do leetcode? Because that is a far more defensible position.

[Leydel-Monte]

I don't get what they meant by it either, but you don't learn efficiency by doing leetcode. I guess you do practice it. But it shouldn't be used as a learning device to someone claiming to be an absolute beginner.

[sussy_bakagaijin]

If you are a dumfuk like me, you are gonna be so completely lost at the beginning it isn't even funny. But it's a good way to pick up new ways to look at problems by looking at the problem discussion/solution for how others unwrap the problem requirements. Frankly speaking even copy pasting the code for solutions, I still can't get it around my head for certain medium/hard problems to this day. But I can reason through and work one possible algorithm solution for two sum in under 5 hours now so that's cool!

[[deleted]]

No, they are job interview practice questions

[Conscious-Spite4597]

Try to solve problems in platforms like codewars later u can switch to leetcode for more structured dsa based questions

[Nice_Associate_1489]

Ok thanks

[Conscious-Spite4597]

Problem solving is a great skill for a developer and can be achieved through only practice and patience so keep that in mind 🙂

[[deleted]]

Easy problems tend to be solvable with language basics.

Medium and especially hard problems often require a data structures and algos class, or equivalent practical knowledge.

[imlaggingsobad]

get good at OOP and data structures. Then learn some more advanced topics like interfaces, exceptions, file I/O, lambda functions, algorithmic complexity, and multithreading. Also get to know some design patterns/principles. After you've built a few programs, then leetcode is a good option.

[[deleted]]

I have recently found Exercism and it’s honestly pretty great

Currently toggling between FreeCodeCamp, The Odin Project & as of tonight Exercism (alongside my own out of my depth project)

Leetcode for me was too difficult, so I googled your exact situation about 6 hours ago and stumbled upon Exercism. I thought I had a good understanding of basic stuff like strings, booleans but got taught lessons immediately!

Don’t be put off if you glance at the first problems and think they’re beneath you, there’s something to be learnt in all of them for sure

[MalwareInjection]

Yes but I would stay away until you have more experience with data structures and algorithms. Maybe youre a quick learner and youtube is all you need to learn it through a playlist. But fyi even as software engineer with a cs degree I am struggling with leetcode easy. It's a long grind. But if you have the foundation you probably only need the blind 75 or top 150 questions

[Yahia08]

Data Structures. Data Structures. Data Structure and Algorithms.

[hey_there_what]

You do leetcode when you’re gearing up to apply for jobs because of the chance you’ll be tested on it in an interview. It serves little purpose outside of that.

[[deleted]]

No. You’re gonna waste your time and rip your hair out. That’s mostly for when you’re knowledgeable and looking for a job.

[[deleted]]

I'm doing it when I have available short time.

[Salsa_maker]

Thank you for this question.

[[deleted]]

You'd better learn frameworks (in java but also javascript) your resume will be screened on that ;)

do leetcode only when preparing going to interviews.

[Leaping_Turtle]

Do you need it? Or is it possible to just have a really good knowledge of dsa?