6 answers
Alex
Student
Clermont, Florida
1
Question
Asked
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What is main thing to worry about or understand about Computer Science?
Provide some tips for understanding to I would looking into to pursue Computer Science!
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6 answers
T.J. Worthy
Mentor
203
Answers
Ypsilanti, Michigan
Updated
T.J.’s Answer
Hello Alex!
I will list some tips based from things I've seen from those within Computer Science (CS):
To work in Computer Science, it's not about being talented at coding. Rather, it's about having skills in problem-solving, perseverance, and logical reasoning.
It's good to not only have these skills, but enjoy using them in real life.
- Explanation -
𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐮𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐒𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐬 𝐬𝐤𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐛𝐥𝐞𝐦-𝐬𝐨𝐥𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠, 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠.
Logical reasoning - defines the ability to solve problems by forming correct conclusions.
The reason why CS degrees contain many math courses is because professionals want potential programmers to solve problems that are complex and unclear.
In college, a math course you'll face is discrete math that will contain topics related to graph, pre-calculus, and algorithms.
College math is different from high school math.
College math focuses more so on computation and insight.
Math is a skill that can be learned under the right instruction and practice.
In most CS careers, you don't need to do math. Rather, you need to recognize patterns and do enough to get the job done.
However, students who want to pursue specific fields in CS need to have perseverance in order to not fail at advanced concepts. [Machine Learning, Data Science, or Deep Learning are the specific fields that really dive deep into advanced concepts, for example].
Another thing to know is:
𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐥𝐲 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐠𝐫𝐨𝐰 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐬𝐤𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐬.
Today, there's many short videos, lessons, programs, and boot camps available to learn programming.
Some people today say that "coding is easy, and everyone should learn to code to have a successful career."
While it's easier to find resources, it is not easy to learn.
Coding is hard.
It just is. It's a complex subject.
Even if you learn and master a skill today, you will still need to learn more about something else... Quickly.
That's because technology has grown into an advanced field.
Also, due to it's complex nature, there will be many time where you'll go between feeling silly and frustrated, to intelligent and awesome.
If you're not comfortable with going through ups and downs and thinking about possible solutions on a frequent basis, then you'll find Computer Science hard.
I saw a comment from someone that said,
" Programming is like cooking. "
" Not everyone should be a chef... But, basic cooking skills are incredibly useful in life. "
" It's the same for basic scripting and programming."
Coding is an important skill to know today, but 𝐢𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐚𝐧 𝐬𝐤𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐬 𝐝𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐦𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫.
- TL:DR -
To work in Computer Science, it's not about being talented at coding. Rather
- It's about having the right way of thinking. The ability to think like a scientist, to think like a computer.
- It's about having the determination to work hard in very tricky, situations.
- It's about spending a lot of mental effort to find the best solutions to problems.
If you feel that Computer Science still sounds right for you:
The final piece of advice is: do not learn for the sake of learning.
Apply what you're learning so you can be successful.
Sending you support as you consider starting your journey in Computer Science :)
- Resources -
Places to get started as a new beginner:
freeCodeCamp - https://www.youtube.com/@freecodecamp
Roadmaps - https://roadmap.sh/
Odin Project - https://www.theodinproject.com/
Coding Game
Places to get advice on programming:
Fireship - https://www.youtube.com/@Fireship
Super Simple Dev - https://www.youtube.com/@SuperSimpleDev
Places to learn more about starting your career in Computer Science:
Darian Sampare - https://www.youtube.com/@DarianSampare
Tim Kim - https://www.youtube.com/@TimKimMe
Joshua Fluke - https://www.youtube.com/@JoshuaFluke1
Coder Coder - https://www.youtube.com/@TheCoderCoder
I will list some tips based from things I've seen from those within Computer Science (CS):
To work in Computer Science, it's not about being talented at coding. Rather, it's about having skills in problem-solving, perseverance, and logical reasoning.
It's good to not only have these skills, but enjoy using them in real life.
- Explanation -
𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐮𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐒𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐬 𝐬𝐤𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐛𝐥𝐞𝐦-𝐬𝐨𝐥𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠, 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠.
Logical reasoning - defines the ability to solve problems by forming correct conclusions.
The reason why CS degrees contain many math courses is because professionals want potential programmers to solve problems that are complex and unclear.
In college, a math course you'll face is discrete math that will contain topics related to graph, pre-calculus, and algorithms.
College math is different from high school math.
College math focuses more so on computation and insight.
Math is a skill that can be learned under the right instruction and practice.
In most CS careers, you don't need to do math. Rather, you need to recognize patterns and do enough to get the job done.
However, students who want to pursue specific fields in CS need to have perseverance in order to not fail at advanced concepts. [Machine Learning, Data Science, or Deep Learning are the specific fields that really dive deep into advanced concepts, for example].
Another thing to know is:
𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐥𝐲 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐠𝐫𝐨𝐰 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐬𝐤𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐬.
Today, there's many short videos, lessons, programs, and boot camps available to learn programming.
Some people today say that "coding is easy, and everyone should learn to code to have a successful career."
While it's easier to find resources, it is not easy to learn.
Coding is hard.
It just is. It's a complex subject.
Even if you learn and master a skill today, you will still need to learn more about something else... Quickly.
That's because technology has grown into an advanced field.
Also, due to it's complex nature, there will be many time where you'll go between feeling silly and frustrated, to intelligent and awesome.
If you're not comfortable with going through ups and downs and thinking about possible solutions on a frequent basis, then you'll find Computer Science hard.
I saw a comment from someone that said,
" Programming is like cooking. "
" Not everyone should be a chef... But, basic cooking skills are incredibly useful in life. "
" It's the same for basic scripting and programming."
Coding is an important skill to know today, but 𝐢𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐚𝐧 𝐬𝐤𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐬 𝐝𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐦𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫.
- TL:DR -
To work in Computer Science, it's not about being talented at coding. Rather
- It's about having the right way of thinking. The ability to think like a scientist, to think like a computer.
- It's about having the determination to work hard in very tricky, situations.
- It's about spending a lot of mental effort to find the best solutions to problems.
If you feel that Computer Science still sounds right for you:
The final piece of advice is: do not learn for the sake of learning.
Apply what you're learning so you can be successful.
Sending you support as you consider starting your journey in Computer Science :)
- Resources -
Places to get started as a new beginner:
freeCodeCamp - https://www.youtube.com/@freecodecamp
Roadmaps - https://roadmap.sh/
Odin Project - https://www.theodinproject.com/
Coding Game
Places to get advice on programming:
Fireship - https://www.youtube.com/@Fireship
Super Simple Dev - https://www.youtube.com/@SuperSimpleDev
Places to learn more about starting your career in Computer Science:
Darian Sampare - https://www.youtube.com/@DarianSampare
Tim Kim - https://www.youtube.com/@TimKimMe
Joshua Fluke - https://www.youtube.com/@JoshuaFluke1
Coder Coder - https://www.youtube.com/@TheCoderCoder
Thank you for the Advice! I have been coding for about 3 months now and I realized how hard it can be when I hit dead end! I will try to implement these tips for coding Journey!
Alex
I'll also share a clip from a video. I feel this section has a good overall message to consider:
https://youtu.be/EFwa5Owp0-k?t=290
T.J. Worthy
Dan Aharon
Eng manager
16
Answers
Brookline, Massachusetts
Updated
Dan’s Answer
I appreciate the insights shared above and wholeheartedly concur with them.
I'd like to contribute an additional point that often proves challenging, regardless of whether you're just starting your career or have been in the field for a few years. It's the ability to accurately gauge the time required to see a project through from inception to completion.
It's been my observation that engineers, myself included, tend to be overly optimistic about how long tasks will take. We often zero in on our specific role in the project, overlooking the time-consuming nature of tasks that rely on others involved in the project or those that influence it.
Experience certainly aids in mitigating this issue, but what truly makes a difference is thorough planning that takes into consideration the environment you're working within.
Wishing you all the best on your journey!
I'd like to contribute an additional point that often proves challenging, regardless of whether you're just starting your career or have been in the field for a few years. It's the ability to accurately gauge the time required to see a project through from inception to completion.
It's been my observation that engineers, myself included, tend to be overly optimistic about how long tasks will take. We often zero in on our specific role in the project, overlooking the time-consuming nature of tasks that rely on others involved in the project or those that influence it.
Experience certainly aids in mitigating this issue, but what truly makes a difference is thorough planning that takes into consideration the environment you're working within.
Wishing you all the best on your journey!
Kapilesh Guruprasad
Software Developer
1
Answer
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Kapilesh’s Answer
You need to understand that the realm of computer science is like a river, constantly flowing and changing due to swift technological progress. The programming language or concept you're mastering today might evolve or even become outdated in a short span of years. But don't let this daunt you! Instead, see it as an exciting part of your future professional journey, where you'll continually update your knowledge with fresh innovations and programming languages. Remember, whatever you learn now lays a solid foundation for grasping the future's new inventions.
Moreover, whenever you encounter something novel in the computer science world, I urge you to take a moment and understand how the world was previously before that particular innovation. Recognize how it has positively transformed people's lives. This perspective will fuel your curiosity and deepen your appreciation for the field.
Moreover, whenever you encounter something novel in the computer science world, I urge you to take a moment and understand how the world was previously before that particular innovation. Recognize how it has positively transformed people's lives. This perspective will fuel your curiosity and deepen your appreciation for the field.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
3773
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Alex,
Decoding Computer Science: Key Insights
Computer Science, with its expansive and ever-progressing nature, is a multifaceted field. It's a broad spectrum that includes everything from algorithms and data structures to cutting-edge areas like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and cybersecurity. Remember, Computer Science isn't only about coding; it's a discipline that demands problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and innovation.
Strategies for Mastering Computer Science:
Begin with the Fundamentals: Before tackling intricate subjects, ensure you have a firm grasp of the core principles of Computer Science, such as algorithms, data structures, and coding languages.
Consistent Practice: Mastery in Computer Science, like any skill, requires regular practice. Engage in coding projects, take part in coding competitions, and solve problems frequently to hone your skills.
Seek Assistance: If you hit a roadblock, don't hesitate to ask for help from professors, mentors, or online resources. Participating in study groups or online communities can also offer valuable insights and support.
Stay Informed: The landscape of Computer Science is in a constant state of flux with new technologies and trends emerging frequently. Keep abreast of the latest advancements by reading scholarly articles, following tech blogs, and attending seminars or workshops.
Investigate Specializations: Computer Science presents a variety of specializations like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, software engineering, and more. Explore these diverse areas to discover your niche within the field.
Create a Portfolio: Highlight your skills and projects by building a portfolio that showcases your accomplishments and substantiates your proficiency in Computer Science.
Welcome Challenges: Computer Science can sometimes be daunting, but don't let obstacles deter you. View challenges as stepping stones for growth and knowledge.
By adhering to these strategies and maintaining your commitment to learning, you can establish a robust foundation in Computer Science and carve a successful career path in this vibrant field.
Top 3 Credible Sources Utilized in Crafting this Response:
Association for Computing Machinery (ACM): ACM, one of the world's leading educational and scientific computing societies, offers access to avant-garde research in Computer Science and provides invaluable resources for both students and professionals in the field.
IEEE Computer Society: A professional body committed to promoting the theory and application of computer science and technology, the IEEE Computer Society publishes prestigious journals and organizes conferences that encompass a wide array of Computer Science topics.
Stanford University’s Online Resources: Stanford University provides a plethora of online resources pertaining to Computer Science education, including lecture notes, course materials, and video lectures. These resources are highly esteemed for their quality and comprehensive coverage of various Computer Science subjects.
May God bless you!
James Constantine.
Decoding Computer Science: Key Insights
Computer Science, with its expansive and ever-progressing nature, is a multifaceted field. It's a broad spectrum that includes everything from algorithms and data structures to cutting-edge areas like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and cybersecurity. Remember, Computer Science isn't only about coding; it's a discipline that demands problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and innovation.
Strategies for Mastering Computer Science:
Begin with the Fundamentals: Before tackling intricate subjects, ensure you have a firm grasp of the core principles of Computer Science, such as algorithms, data structures, and coding languages.
Consistent Practice: Mastery in Computer Science, like any skill, requires regular practice. Engage in coding projects, take part in coding competitions, and solve problems frequently to hone your skills.
Seek Assistance: If you hit a roadblock, don't hesitate to ask for help from professors, mentors, or online resources. Participating in study groups or online communities can also offer valuable insights and support.
Stay Informed: The landscape of Computer Science is in a constant state of flux with new technologies and trends emerging frequently. Keep abreast of the latest advancements by reading scholarly articles, following tech blogs, and attending seminars or workshops.
Investigate Specializations: Computer Science presents a variety of specializations like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, software engineering, and more. Explore these diverse areas to discover your niche within the field.
Create a Portfolio: Highlight your skills and projects by building a portfolio that showcases your accomplishments and substantiates your proficiency in Computer Science.
Welcome Challenges: Computer Science can sometimes be daunting, but don't let obstacles deter you. View challenges as stepping stones for growth and knowledge.
By adhering to these strategies and maintaining your commitment to learning, you can establish a robust foundation in Computer Science and carve a successful career path in this vibrant field.
Top 3 Credible Sources Utilized in Crafting this Response:
Association for Computing Machinery (ACM): ACM, one of the world's leading educational and scientific computing societies, offers access to avant-garde research in Computer Science and provides invaluable resources for both students and professionals in the field.
IEEE Computer Society: A professional body committed to promoting the theory and application of computer science and technology, the IEEE Computer Society publishes prestigious journals and organizes conferences that encompass a wide array of Computer Science topics.
Stanford University’s Online Resources: Stanford University provides a plethora of online resources pertaining to Computer Science education, including lecture notes, course materials, and video lectures. These resources are highly esteemed for their quality and comprehensive coverage of various Computer Science subjects.
May God bless you!
James Constantine.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
3773
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Alex,
Mastering Computer Science: Essential Insights and Strategies
The Core of Computer Science: The heart of Computer Science lies in the fundamental theories and principles that shape this discipline. It's more than just coding or programming; it's a broad spectrum encompassing topics like algorithms, data structures, software engineering, artificial intelligence, machine learning, cybersecurity, and more. Grasping these core concepts is vital for anyone aspiring to carve out a career in Computer Science.
Strategies for Mastering Computer Science:
Begin at the Beginning: Start by familiarizing yourself with the basic concepts of Computer Science, such as algorithms and data structures. These are the stepping stones to more advanced subjects.
Hone Your Coding Skills: Coding is a critical skill in Computer Science. Regular practice will enhance your problem-solving capabilities and proficiency in programming languages like Python, Java, C++, and more.
Dive into Projects: Engaging in hands-on projects is an excellent way to put your knowledge and skills to the test. Undertake personal projects or join coding competitions to gain practical experience and deepen your comprehension of Computer Science principles.
Reach Out for Help: Never hesitate to seek advice from professors, mentors, or online resources. Engage with coding communities, attend workshops, and enroll in online courses to enrich your learning experience.
Stay in the Loop: The world of Computer Science is ever-evolving, with new technologies and trends surfacing regularly. Keep abreast of the latest developments by perusing research papers, following tech blogs, and attending conferences.
Discover Your Niche: Computer Science presents a variety of specializations like cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and more. Explore these different areas to identify your passion and tailor your learning journey accordingly.
Sharpen Your Problem-Solving Skills: Problem-solving is the backbone of Computer Science. Regular practice solving algorithmic challenges and puzzles will hone your analytical thinking and problem-solving prowess.
By adhering to these strategies and focusing on the fundamental concepts of Computer Science, you can lay a robust foundation for a thriving career in this dynamic field.
Top 3 Credible References Utilized:
Association for Computing Machinery (ACM): ACM, one of the largest global educational and scientific computing societies, offers a plethora of resources, publications, and conferences related to Computer Science.
IEEE Computer Society: The IEEE Computer Society is a professional body dedicated to propelling technology for the betterment of humanity. It provides a wealth of resources on various facets of Computer Science.
Stanford University’s Online Resources: Stanford University's computer science department offers an array of online resources, including lecture notes, course materials, and video lectures that span a wide range of Computer Science topics.
Stay Blessed!
James Constantine.
Mastering Computer Science: Essential Insights and Strategies
The Core of Computer Science: The heart of Computer Science lies in the fundamental theories and principles that shape this discipline. It's more than just coding or programming; it's a broad spectrum encompassing topics like algorithms, data structures, software engineering, artificial intelligence, machine learning, cybersecurity, and more. Grasping these core concepts is vital for anyone aspiring to carve out a career in Computer Science.
Strategies for Mastering Computer Science:
Begin at the Beginning: Start by familiarizing yourself with the basic concepts of Computer Science, such as algorithms and data structures. These are the stepping stones to more advanced subjects.
Hone Your Coding Skills: Coding is a critical skill in Computer Science. Regular practice will enhance your problem-solving capabilities and proficiency in programming languages like Python, Java, C++, and more.
Dive into Projects: Engaging in hands-on projects is an excellent way to put your knowledge and skills to the test. Undertake personal projects or join coding competitions to gain practical experience and deepen your comprehension of Computer Science principles.
Reach Out for Help: Never hesitate to seek advice from professors, mentors, or online resources. Engage with coding communities, attend workshops, and enroll in online courses to enrich your learning experience.
Stay in the Loop: The world of Computer Science is ever-evolving, with new technologies and trends surfacing regularly. Keep abreast of the latest developments by perusing research papers, following tech blogs, and attending conferences.
Discover Your Niche: Computer Science presents a variety of specializations like cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and more. Explore these different areas to identify your passion and tailor your learning journey accordingly.
Sharpen Your Problem-Solving Skills: Problem-solving is the backbone of Computer Science. Regular practice solving algorithmic challenges and puzzles will hone your analytical thinking and problem-solving prowess.
By adhering to these strategies and focusing on the fundamental concepts of Computer Science, you can lay a robust foundation for a thriving career in this dynamic field.
Top 3 Credible References Utilized:
Association for Computing Machinery (ACM): ACM, one of the largest global educational and scientific computing societies, offers a plethora of resources, publications, and conferences related to Computer Science.
IEEE Computer Society: The IEEE Computer Society is a professional body dedicated to propelling technology for the betterment of humanity. It provides a wealth of resources on various facets of Computer Science.
Stanford University’s Online Resources: Stanford University's computer science department offers an array of online resources, including lecture notes, course materials, and video lectures that span a wide range of Computer Science topics.
Stay Blessed!
James Constantine.
Kyle Schmitt
Senior Data Engineer
3
Answers
Kansas City, Missouri
Updated
Kyle’s Answer
I believe having a keen interest in the world around you and how you engage with it is an excellent overarching mindset for developing a love for computer science. There's an immense sense of satisfaction that comes from crafting a piece of code and witnessing a computer system react to it. I would suggest initiating your exploration with the Python programming language and not being afraid to dive in and experiment. This language is versatile, capable of running on almost any system, and provides a straightforward entry point into your programming adventure.
I have taken you advice and have been learning phyton! It seemed daunting at first but I was able to solve given scenarios using say for example Booleans.
Alex