"Competitive Programming 101"

Competitive Programming is a domain in coding where programmers from all around the world compete together to solve problems under a certain time. By the end of this article you will get to know about it and may be give it a try as well.

What is Competitive Programming?

Competitive Programming (CP) is not similar to normal programming as something extra is added to it, in normal programming we mostly write code to develop a product or a service etc. But in Competitive Programming we write code to solve a problem. Its get competitive when you're doing it under a certain time and also competing with other programmers.

Format:

Its format can change according to the contest but mostly its same, you're given a certain number of problems with a set of constraints that you have to solve under a limited time. The faster you solve a, the faster you win.

Does Competitive Programming Really Matters?

The answer to this question is both in yes and no as it depends on a programmer itself. If you're a programmer that likes solving problem but don't want a time limit on it then its not for you, but if you are someone who likes to solve problems with a team and for fun then its a good choice for you.

Problems in Competitive Programming:

• Competitive Programming lacks Real World Applications, as it only involves algorithms and using those algorithms to solve a bunch of problems. No doubt these algorithms are used in real world applications but you're not directly solving a real world problem by an application.
• Competitive Programming lacks some important components of technology such as scalability, because it doesn't involves creating an application such as a product, website or a service etc.
• Competitive Programming demands time with no tangible outcome. Working on mathematical algorithms requires time because of the brainstorming involve in it.

What it Provides?

Competitive Programming is all about problem solving if you want to enhance your problem solving skills then its a right thing to do. Working with different algorithms to provide an optimize solution will defiantly help you in your field. You can start your journey on different online platforms such as:

• LeetCode
• Codeforces
• CodeChef
• HackerRank

Competitive Programming Contests

Throughout the year various contests are taking place from all around the globe. Here is a list of some famous ones:

• MITIT
• CS50 x Puzzle Day
• Calico by UC Berkeley

You can take a look at some of my competitive programming experiences here. You can also participate in onsite competitions taking place in your city mostly conducted by educational institutes.