how to develop problem solving skills in programming

1. How to develop problem solving skills in programming

2. Introduction • It’s critical to hone your problem-solving skills in programming. This is important because the performance of any task you’re given is contingent on how well you identify the problem before designing and implementing a solution. As a result, this article’s emphasis will be on how to improve problem-solving skills in programming. “Problem-solving skills are almost universally the most critical qualification that employers search for […] more than programming languages proficiency, debugging, and device design,” according to HackerRank. So, how do you hone your problem-solving abilities? Is there even a point at which this trend will come to an end? No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no Thinking like a programmer means looking for the most effective solution to problems. 

3. Why is it Necessary? • Problem-solving in programming refers to comprehending a problem and planning a solution for the defined problem. Furthermore, it then put the solution into action by writing a program in a programming language. This language instructs the machine about how to solve the problem. When we are given a job, we must figure out what problem we are trying to solve, and when we write a program to design a solution, the machine produces an output that is entirely dependent on the input. As a result, our program’s output’s accuracy is entirely dependent on the accuracy of our input. So, to provide accurate input and obtain accurate output, it’s crucial first to comprehend the problem and then develop an algorithm to solve it. This is why we need to improve our programming problem-solving abilities.

4. Steps to develop problem-solving skills in programming? • So, how can you improve your programming problem-solving abilities? Let’s take a look at an example. Assume you’re driving and your car begins to make a strange noise. So, even if you don’t know how to fix this problem, the first step is to figure out where the noise is coming from and then take the car to a mechanic. The mechanic will then evaluate the problem and assess what to do by evaluating the problem and finding the noise source. He will then decide what to do and start making a plan for what he needs and how he will do it. Finally, he will begin putting the car repair plan into effect. So, as you can see from the example above, developing problem-solving skills in programming entails a series of steps. The steps to resolving an issue are as follows:

5. Analyze the problem • Be aware of the problem and all of its components. One of the issues that make problems difficult to solve is that most people don’t fully comprehend the problem before attempting to solve it. Consequently, the first step is to research the issue to decide what you need to know. If you can explain the problem in plain English without resorting to jargon or weasel words, you have a clear idea of when you have understood enough to understand the problem. You’ll know you’ve grasped the issue when you can state it clearly. Understanding the issue is just half of the solution. Typically, you have the necessary background to address an issue, but you are unsure how to apply it in a specific situation. Make sure you can see the issue clearly before you start trying every solution you can think of at random. If you don’t understand the problem, you might write a good program, but it won’t help you solve it. As a result, it’s important to read and evaluate the problem statement before devising a solution strategy.

6. Plan how to tackle the issue • Don’t try to solve the issue without first knowing all of its components. The best thing you can do is try to develop a rational solution that will allow you to approach the problem from a strong position. To put it another way, don’t start hacking right away. Instead, think about how you can travel logically from where you are now to the endpoint you want. What are the steps to get there? For programming experts, the step-by-step approach is nothing new, and we’re confident you’re already familiar with it and will feel at ease using it to solve problems.

7. Divide the problem • Many concerns are just too broad to fix all at once. In reality, attempting to do so can be difficult. Instead, break the problem down into smaller, more manageable steps that will help you to advance objectively through the problem-solving process while still allowing you to celebrate small wins along the way. Starting with the smallest and simplest problem and solving it first is one of the most efficient ways to handle sub-problems. When you solve the simplest problems first, you’ll also find that the answer simplifies the tougher problems you’re saving for later. Reduce the problem to the point that you understand how to solve it and write the solution down. Then, slightly extend the problem, rewrite the solution to fit, and keep going until you hit your starting point.

8. Algorithm Development • An algorithm is a series of instructions for completing a task. So, after you’ve grasped the problem statement, it’s critical to write down a series of steps you’ll take to solve the problem, which is nothing more than an algorithm. An algorithm can be thought of as the steps or process for completing a task. It’s a good idea to build multiple algorithms to solve a problem so that you can choose the best one from among all of your options.

9. Coding • So, once you’ve chosen the right algorithm, you’ll need to put it into action using a programming language. If you have a set of instructions to follow to solve a problem, it will help you solve any complex problem. The only thing you need to understand is the basics of the programming language you’re going to use to solve the problem.

10. Conclusion • Training is one of the most important ways to boost your problem-solving abilities. That doesn’t mean you can go out and search for programming problems just for the sake of it; instead, you should look for other ways to put your programming skills to use. To keep their minds sharp and practice problem-solving, Elon Musk plays video games, and Peter Thiel plays chess, for example. Aside from video games and chess, there are several ways to do this. You could try Sudoku, card games, board games, or assist with an organization’s logistics operation. In short, anything that will stimulate the mind in new ways. There is also saying that when we are distracted by something mundane, we develop the most imaginative solutions. It’s not a joke to try cleaning up or planting anything. To improve your programming problem-solving skills, first, understand the problem. Then create an algorithm then follow the algorithm’s steps discussed above.