Codeforces Learning Path

A structured roadmap for competitive programming, progressing through Codeforces ratings.

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Phase Main Topic / Rating Content Goal
1 Foundations
  • Choose Programming Language (C++)
  • Big O Notation
  • Set Up Environment
 Establish fundamental programming and environment setup skills.
2 Newbie (Rating < 1200)
  • Basic Math & Number Theory
  • Brute Force Technique
  • Sorting & Greedy
  • Using Basic Data Structures
 Master basic problem-solving techniques and data structures.
3 Pupil (Rating 1200-1400)
  • Binary Search
  • Two Pointers Technique
  • DFS & BFS
  • Modulo Arithmetic
 Learn standard algorithms for common problem types.
4 Specialist (Rating 1400-1600)
  • Basic Dynamic Programming (DP)
  • Advanced Graph (Dijkstra, MST)
  • Tree Data Structures (BST, Heap)
  • Query Processing (Prefix Sums)
 Tackle intermediate topics like DP and graph algorithms.
5 Expert (Rating 1600-1900)
  • Advanced Dynamic Programming
  • Segment Tree & Fenwick Tree
  • Max Flow
  • Game Theory
 Master advanced data structures and algorithmic paradigms.
6 Candidate Master & Above (Rating 1900+)
  • Advanced String Algorithms
  • Computational Geometry
  • FFT & Polynomial Multiplication
  • Intensive Practice
 Explore specialized topics and achieve high-level proficiency through practice.

Core Mindsets for Codeforces

1. Upsolve Relentlessly

The most significant learning happens after the contest ends. Systematically solve every problem you couldn't solve during the contest. This is non-negotiable for improvement.

2. Read Carefully, Think Deeply

Misreading the problem is the easiest way to fail. Read the statement multiple times. Think through the logic and edge cases on paper before writing a single line of code.

3. Master Pattern Recognition

Most problems are variations of a few dozen core concepts. Your goal is to train your brain to see the underlying pattern (e.g., "This is a binary search problem in disguise").

4. Focus on Quality Practice

Solving 1000 easy problems is less effective than solving 100 hard problems that push your limits. Focus on problems slightly above your current comfort level.