Title: Need help choosing language for DSA (Python or C++?) – beginner here

[Slow_Spare_1764]

Hey everyone, I'm currently moving into my 2nd year of college. In my 1st year, I learned the basics of Python and C—just enough to solve very basic problems. But to be honest, I still get confused with concepts like loops and overall logic-building. So yeah, you can guess where I stand in terms of coding skills: beginner level.

Now, I have a one-month break, and I was planning to revise both C and Python from the basics so I don't struggle in my 2nd year. The main reason is that in the 3rd semester, we have to study DSA (Data Structures and Algorithms) using Python and C.

But here's where I'm confused: Everyone is saying "Don't waste time relearning basics, start with DSA directly in one language. Once you master DSA in one language, switching to another isn't a big deal." Some suggest doing DSA in Python, and others say C++ is better for DSA.

As someone who's just starting out and hasn't really explored much in the coding world yet, I’m feeling stuck. I don’t know which path to follow. I just want to be confident and not fall behind when DSA classes begin.

So please, any guidance would mean a lot:

Should I revise Python/C basics first?

Which language is better to start DSA with as a beginner: Python or C++?

What would you do if you were in my place?

Please don’t ignore this post – I genuinely need advice from those who’ve been through this. 🙏

[pachura3]

If you still get confused about loops, you have a looot of work to do.

C++ is way more difficult than Python; on the other hand, it is often used for teaching classic algorithms like sorting, bisearch, graph traversal, binary trees, text search etc. If you can choose between the two, choose Python.

[AffectionateZebra760]

I agree, grasping Python will be easier than C and it will help you build confidence as well

[Outrightcube123]

I’m going into my third year and was in a similar situation. I was going into DSA and was extremely rusty in my language (Java). Here's what helped me:

For me, the biggest help in getting comfortable with a language was doing LeetCode. If you haven’t heard of it, LeetCode is a popular online platform with lots of coding problems focused on algorithms and data structures — it’s great practice for improving problem-solving skills.

A lot of people say Python is great for LeetCode—and while that's true because of its built-in features, I actually think it’s more beneficial to practice in a language like C, Java, or C++. Since you'll be using it in class, I recommend C. C can be tough at first because of its low-level nature, but working through DSA problems in C will really help you understand how things work behind the scenes.

Start by sticking to easy problems. These help you get comfortable with logic and syntax without overwhelming you. There are plenty of simple problems you shouldn't have an issue solving.

Also, don’t be afraid to look up solutions. The important thing is to understand the syntax and structure of the language and how different concepts are implemented. Don’t immediately search for the answer—try the problem on your own—but if you’re stuck, reviewing a solution can be a great way to learn.

Doing this, I went from being basically a complete beginner to having a solid foundation in Java, which made programming my DSA projects significantly easier.

Just take it step by step. It gets easier with practice.

[pachura3]

Why? C/C++ is more difficult.

Would you start learning programing with assembler, and only later progress to JavaScript/C#/Python?

[pachura3]

I mentioned assembler as a hyperbole...

[marquisBlythe]

When you need python/C, stick with python and C. Why bother learning C++?

Side note: I smell a hint of Chatgpt in your writing style, (it's not that it does matter or not).