DSA FROM SCRATCH
ROADMAP
By Team Loop
Contents
1 What is DSA ?? 4 Resources
2 Why DSA ??
5 Tips
3 Logic building steps
What is DSA??
Data Structures and Algorithms (DSA) are the tools and
techniques we use in coding to solve problems efficiently.
Data Structures are like containers that help us organize and
store data (like lists, queues, trees, graphs).
Algorithms are step-by-step instructions that tell us how to
approach and solve a problem.
Together, DSA helps us write programs that can handle large
amounts of information in smart and fast ways.
Why DSA??
1. Logical Thinking : It sharpens your logical thinking , helping
you approach complex problems in a structured and efficient
way.
2. Key Interview skill : Companies heavily focus on DSA during
Online Assessments and technical interviews to assess your
problem-solving skills.
3. Foundation for Advanced topics: DSA works as building
blocks for advanced topics . Ex: Graph Theory - graph
algorithms are widely used in networking, social networking
analysis etc.
Roadmap
STEP 1
Foundation of Programming concepts
and Mastering a Language
Learn the basics of a programming language like
python, java or c++. Focus on syntax, variables, data
types, control statements etc.
A strong foundation makes learning DSA smoother
since concepts are easier to implement when you’re
comfortable with the language.
STEP 2
Basic Questions to get a good hold
on Language
Practice solving simple problem statements involving
control statements, functions and other standard
problems to strengthen your understanding.
This will solidify foundational skills before tackling DSA
as these are the building blocks for writing logical code
in DSA problems.
STEP 3 Resource 1
Build Logical Thinking and Pattern Resource 2
Programming
This step focuses on sprouting the logical thinking
needed for coding. Pattern programming forces you to
break problems into manageable pieces.
This is essential because problem solving in DSA
requires a clear understanding of how to structure
solutions step-by-step.
STEP 4 Resource 1
Math for DSA Resource 2
Brush up on math concepts like prime numbers, Resource 3
GCD/LCM, factorial, factors, prime factors,
exponentiation. Resource 4
Math forms the basis of many algorithms and helps in
understanding the efficiency of solutions.
This math helps in cracking many problems.
STEP 5
Introduction to Searching and
Sorting algorithms
Searching and sorting algorithms form the backbone of
many more advanced DSA problems. Familiarizing with
these topics early on is crucial for laying a strong
foundation.
Searching - linear search, binary search
Sorting - Bubble sort, Insertion sort
STEP 6
Introduction to Recursion
Recursion is by far the most important topic and
favorite topic of interviewers.
Recursion allows complex problems to be broken down
into simpler, smaller subproblems.
Recursion tests your ability to devise a logical solution.
Tip: Practice!!! Dry run as many questions as possible
STEP 7
Core Data Structures
Now that, you have completed all the previous steps, it
is time to start with basic and very important data
structures (Arrays, Strings).
Array itself is a collection of elements and in turn is
used to implement other data structures like lists,
stacks and queues.
Strings are arrays of characters and understanding
their manipulation is crucial in software development.
STEP 8
Complexity Analysis
Complexity analysis involves determining the efficiency
of algorithms in terms of time and space.
Understanding complexity is critical for optimizing code
and making decisions about which algorithms to use in
different scenarios.
We always strive to optimize our solution in terms of
time and space complexity.
BRUTE -> BETTER -> OPTIMAL
STEP 9
Intermediate Problem Solving
At this stage, you should apply the knowledge acquired
till now to solve intermediate-level problems around
arrays, strings and different algorithms.
Problems should integrate data structures,
algorithms, and complexity analysis. This will reinforce
the connections between different topics.
Practicing intermediate problems builds confidence.
STEP 10
Advanced Data Structures
This step introduces more complex data structures like
linked lists, stacks, queues, trees, heaps, graphs.
Parallelly, familiarize with important and useful
algorithms and techniques.
Mastery of these structures is crucial for technical
interviews and real-world applications.
STEP 11
Regular Problem-solving Habit
Learning the theory is just the beginning.... It’s the
practice and consistency in coding that turns a good
programmer into a great one.
It’s OK if you don’t get the approach in your first few
attempts. But understand the solution and embrace
your new learnings.
RESOURCES
Best programming books :
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U-R97-zcqEY
Introduction to DSA :
https://nptel.ac.in/courses/106102064
DSA for beginners :
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BBpAmxU_NQo
Clearing basics of recursion :
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgUwDviBIf0rGlzIn_7rsaR2FQ5e6ZOL9
DSA practicing sheet :
https://www.proelevate.in/dsa-practice/arsh-dsa-sheet
TIP 1
Form a peer group and set TIP 2
everyday goals / weekly
goals. Discuss and Maintain a coding journal
brainstorm. and note down new
learnings or approaches and
track your progress.
TIP 3
Revise old topics at regular TIP 4
intervals.
Focus on quality of problems
and not quantity.
Thanks!
"In the world of code, let’s celebrate every victory, big or small, because each step
forward fuels our passion and creativity!"
