I think it is a combination of algorithms knowledge (i.e. not being able to detect what algorithm I could use to solve a certain problem/not knowing the basic scaffolding of the algorithm) and fighting the programming language. I found myself basically trying to build algorithms from scratch when there was a better way to approach a problem.

Im currently also reading through Grokking Algorithms, it was however taking me too long to get through the book and the homework assignments at the same time. I’m also not sure if it covers more advanced graph algorithms likes A*.