---
id: prereqs
title: Prerequisites
author: Nathan Wang
---

Here's what you should learn before reading these resources.

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These resources do **not** teach you how to code. We recommend you learn roughly the first half of AP Computer Science A before continuing. If you do not meet these prerequisites, you can go to the resources below to get started.

Familiarity with [competition math](https://github.com/bqi343/USACO/blob/master/Resources/Competition%20Math.md) (ex. AIME qualification) is helpful but not required.

## Expected Knowledge

- Variables
  - Data types
- Reading Input
- Writing Output
- Loops
- If/else
- Logical operators
- Functions
  - Basic Recursion (a function calling itself)
- Arrays
  - Multidimensional Arrays

## Resources for Learning How to Code

[Sololearn](https://www.sololearn.com/) has courses on C++, Java, and Python. You don't have to complete the full course.

 - For C++, we recommend you finish Sololearn up to (but not including) "More on Classes."

[[info | Pro Tip]]
| You do not need to learn pointers (for now). Knowledge of structs and classes is useful but not required.

### Resources for Getting Started

  - [CodeSignal](https://codesignal.com/)
    - good place to practice basics
  - [IOI: Getting Started](https://ioinformatics.org/page/getting-started/14)
  - [Philippines OI: Prepare](https://noi.ph/prepare/)
  - [Schedule for Beginners](https://www.quora.com/What-is-a-good-schedule-to-follow-for-becoming-better-at-competitive-programming-for-beginners)
  - [E869120 Tutorial](http://codeforces.com/blog/entry/53341)