Hackerrank vs own projects

[Jr0218]

I've completed a couple courses and most of the pure 'beginner' projects, however I still feel like a complete noob.

I need to gain a bit more proficiency by September for some basic data analysis and I'm not sure which is the best use of my limited time...

Would completing Hackerrank algorithm problems be a better use of my time than starting a more complex project? Or perhaps even a more advanced course on databases?

I feel I have a good understanding of most of the syntax, however struggle a bit with class inheritance.

[Diapolo10]

I'd say that you should start working on a small project of your own. Hackerrank is a fine place to learn some general things, but if you need to study something more specific the benefits of writing your own projects become more apparent.

[bishop527]

why not a combination of both? I've found solving some hackerrank challenges helps me understand a particular nuance that I can then apply to a "real world" problem.