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The Self-Taught Computer Scientist

The Beginner's Guide to Data Structures & Algorithms
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( 61 ratings, 6 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Self-Taught Computer Scientist by Cory Althoff is an engaging guide aimed at helping readers transition from basic programming knowledge to thinking like a computer scientist. The book covers fundamental computer science concepts through practical examples, presenting them in an accessible and structured manner. It is ideal for those looking to deepen their understanding of algorithms, data structures, and beyond, with a focus on real-world application.
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this insightful read if you're keen on transitioning from beginner to confident programmer with minimal formal education. The book's approachable style demystifies complex computing concepts, making it perfect for self-directed learners eager to enhance their programming skills and understanding of core computer science principles.

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Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

The follow-up to Cory Althoff's bestselling The Self-Taught Programmer, which inspired hundreds of thousands of professionals to learn to program outside of school!

Fresh out of college and with just a year of self-study behind him, Cory Althoff was offered a dream first job as a software engineer for a well-known tech company. However, he quickly found himself overwhelmed by the amount of knowledge he needed, but hadn’t yet acquired. This experience, combined with his personal journey learning to program, inspired his widely praised guide, The Self-Taught Programmer. Now Cory's back with another guide for the self-taught community of learners focusing on the foundations of computer science.

The Self-Taught Computer Scientist introduces beginner and self-taught programmers to computer science fundamentals that are essential for success in programming and software engineering fields. Computer science is a massive subject that could encompass an entire lifetime of learning. This book does not aim to cover everything you would learn if you were to pursue a computer science degree. Instead, Cory's goal is to provide an introduction to some of the most important concepts in computer science that apply to a programming career. With a focus on data structures and algorithms, The Self-Taught Computer Scientist helps you fill gaps in your knowledge, prepare for a technical interview, feel knowledgeable and confident on the job, and ultimately, become a better programmer.

  • Learn different algorithms including linear and binary search and test your knowledge with feedback loops.
  • Understand what a data structure is and study arrays, linked lists, stacks, queues, hash tables, binary trees, binary heaps, and graphs.
  • Prepare for technical interviews and feel comfortable working with more experienced colleagues.
  • Discover additional resources and tools to expand your skillset and continue your learning journey.

It's as simple as this: You have to study computer science if you want to become a successful programmer, and if you don't understand computer science, you won't get hired. Ready for a career in programming, coding, or software engineering, and willing to embrace an "always be learning" mindset? The Self-Taught Computer Scientist is for you.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Self-Taught Computer Scientist by Cory Althoff is generally well-received for its accessible approach to learning computer science concepts independently. Readers appreciate the clear explanations and practical examples, which are helpful for beginners. However, some feel that it could delve deeper into certain complex topics.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781119724414

Publisher: John Wiley & Sons Inc

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 20 December 2021

Country: United States

Imprint: John Wiley & Sons Inc

Audience: Professional and scholarly

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 15.0mm

Width: 185.0mm

Height: 234.0mm

Weight: 318g

Pages: 224

About the Author

CORY ALTHOFFΒ is a programmer, speaker, and author whose work includes The Self-Taught Programmer and The Self-Taught Computer Scientist. After graduating with a major in political science, Cory taught himself to program, eventually becoming a software engineer at eBay. Cory's books have been translated into eight languages, and he has been featured in publications like Forbes and CNBC. Over 250K developers are part of the self-taught programmer community he created through his popular Facebook group, course, and newsletter. Cory is a senior vice president at CompTIA, where he helps people learn the skills they need to have successful careers in tech. Cory lives in California with his wife and daughter.

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