How I'm Studying Data Structure & Algorithms (Self-Learning)

Summary

In this video, the speaker shares an effective approach to mastering data structures and preparing for technical interviews. Rather than memorizing specific questions, the focus is on understanding core concepts and practicing problems on platforms like LeetCode. The speaker highlights the importance of books for in-depth learning and provides resources for both beginners and advanced learners. They recommend balancing video tutorials and books, especially when time is limited before an interview. Ultimately, the key to success is consistent practice, revising strengths, and strategically preparing based on real interview experiences.

Takeaways

• 😀 Memorization alone won't guarantee success in interviews; focus on understanding concepts rather than just memorizing answers.
• 😀 Start learning data structures with a general overview to understand what each structure is and how it works.
• 😀 Books are crucial for in-depth learning, even if some people recommend avoiding them in favor of quick solutions like LeetCode.
• 😀 Leverage both videos and books together for a balanced learning approach, but avoid cramming right before interviews.
• 😀 Solve easy problems first on platforms like LeetCode to build your confidence and gradually move to more complex ones.
• 😀 Do not memorize solutions. Understand the underlying approach and techniques behind each problem.
• 😀 During the last two weeks before an interview, focus on revising well-prepared topics and solving related problems.
• 😀 Utilize websites like Glassdoor and GMG to review common interview questions from specific companies and prepare accordingly.
• 😀 If you're preparing for an interview in a short time frame, focus on revising the best-prepared concepts and not on learning new topics.
• 😀 Don't get demotivated if things don't go as planned; focus on consistent practice and adapt your approach based on feedback.
• 😀 Specific book recommendations include works by Diapali Srivastava for data structures and Narasimha for Java-related learning, along with popular YouTube channels like Ravindra Rula and Abdul A.

Q & A

What is the speaker's approach to learning data structures effectively?

The speaker emphasizes starting with a general overview of the topic, understanding the core concepts before diving into complex details, and practicing consistently with coding problems.

Why is it not recommended to memorize answers for interview questions?

Memorizing answers may work temporarily, but it can fail if the interviewer asks different or unexpected questions. The speaker advises focusing on understanding concepts rather than memorization.

What is the importance of video resources in learning data structures?

Video resources help provide a visual and practical explanation of data structures, offering a deeper understanding of how they work, especially when following structured lessons from expert instructors.

Which specific YouTube channel does the speaker recommend for learning data structures?

The speaker recommends the YouTube channel of Ravindra Rula (now rebranded to GATE Academy), which provides clear explanations of data structures, particularly for beginners.

How does the speaker suggest preparing for interviews in the last two weeks?

In the last two weeks, focus on practicing coding problems relevant to the company you're interviewing with. Research interview experiences on websites like Glassdoor and GMG to understand the types of questions likely to be asked.

What role do books play in learning data structures, according to the speaker?

Books are crucial for understanding data structures in depth as they provide structured, well-explained content. The speaker recommends both Indian and foreign authors, depending on the learner's preference.

How should one manage their time when preparing for interviews?

Time management is key. The speaker suggests that in the final stages of interview preparation, one should focus on reviewing and solving problems rather than starting new complex topics.

What advice does the speaker give for managing limited time before an interview?

If you're short on time, focus on practicing problems you've already studied, brush up on core concepts, and avoid overloading with new topics that may be difficult to master in a short period.

Why does the speaker suggest using books like 'Made Easy in Java' for interview preparation?

Books like 'Made Easy in Java' are recommended because they provide a clear and comprehensive approach to understanding data structures in Java, which can be useful for coding interviews.

What is the speaker’s view on relying solely on online resources like LeetCode?

While platforms like LeetCode are valuable for practice, the speaker advises balancing them with structured learning from books and video resources to ensure a well-rounded understanding of data structures and algorithms.