Lecture Notes: DSA Roadmap & AI Tools

Introduction

• Speaker: Nishant Chahar, former software engineer at Microsoft, currently with Algooprep and Tayari.
• Main Topic: Importance of Data Structures and Algorithms (DSA) in college education and career.
• Challenge: Introduction to a 90-day DSA challenge with subscription rewards.

Programming Language Choice

• Key Point: Language choice (Java vs C++) is less important than problem-solving skills.
• Recommendation: Pick one language and start learning.
• Resources Provided:
  • Java playlist covering basics to advanced, including dynamic programming.
  • C++ basics covering arrays, strings, pointers, etc.

90-Day DSA Learning Roadmap

• Days 1-2: Focus on space and time complexity.
• Days 3-10: Learn recursion and backtracking.
• Days 11-25: Study basic linear data structures (arrays, linked lists, stacks, queues).
• Days 26-40: Cover searching, sorting, and key algorithms (hash maps, trees, heaps, sliding windows).
• Days 41-65: Focus on graphs and dynamic programming (BFS, DFS, shortest paths, memorization, tabulation).
• Days 66-75: Object-oriented programming (OOP).
• Days 76-90: Advanced topics like number theory, bit manipulation, and more coding contests.

Importance of Coding Contests

• Purpose: Simulate real-world coding assessments.
• Benefit: Helps in working under pressure.

After DSA: Projects and Resume Building

• Project Ideas: Includes streaming service, chat application using WhatsApp/Firebase.
• Resume Tips: Insights from recruiters of top companies; optimize LinkedIn profile.

90-Day DSA Challenge

• Participation Requirements: Sign up for a free trial, code daily, and document progress on social media.
• Prizes: Three winners receive a two-year subscription to AlgoPrep X.

Utilizing AI for DSA

• Visualization Tools: Online visualizers for sorting and path-finding algorithms.
• Customized Study Plans: Use AI to create personalized study schedules.
• Mock Interviews: Websites like "offered by AI" and "final round AI" for interview practice.
• AI-assisted Code Review: Ask AI models like GPT for feedback on code improvements.

Conclusion

• Call to Action: Implement these steps to build a solid DSA foundation.
• Subscription Encouragement: Like and subscribe for more content.