Roadmap to Learning Computer Science from Scratch
This roadmap will take you from a beginner to an advanced level, covering
fundamental topics, programming skills, and real-world applications.
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Phase 1: Foundations of Computer Science (1–3 Months)
Goal: Understand the basics of how computers work, fundamental programming
concepts, and problem-solving.
1. Learn How Computers Work
Understand hardware (CPU, RAM, storage, input/output devices).
Learn about operating systems (Windows, Linux, macOS).
Learn how data is stored (binary system, bits & bytes).
2. Learn a Programming Language (Choose one)
Python (best for beginners, easy to read).
JavaScript (for web development).
C or C++ (for system programming).
Start with basic concepts:
Variables & Data Types
Conditionals (if-else)
Loops (for, while)
Functions
Resources:
Harvard’s CS50x (Introduction to Computer Science)
Python for Everybody (by Dr. Chuck on Coursera)
3. Learn Computational Thinking & Problem-Solving
Learn pseudocode & flowcharts to design algorithms.
Solve small problems on LeetCode, CodeSignal, or HackerRank.
Work on basic projects (e.g., a calculator, a to-do list app).
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Phase 2: Core Computer Science Topics (3–6 Months)
Goal: Understand data structures, algorithms, and how software works.
1. Data Structures & Algorithms (DSA)
Arrays & Strings
Linked Lists
Stacks & Queues
Hash Tables
Recursion & Sorting Algorithms (Bubble Sort, Merge Sort, Quick Sort)
Trees & Graphs
Resources:
Grokking Algorithms (Book)
Introduction to Algorithms (CLRS)
FreeCodeCamp’s DSA Course
2. Object-Oriented Programming (OOP)
Learn Classes, Objects, Inheritance, Polymorphism.
Implement small projects using OOP.
Resources:
Python OOP Crash Course (YouTube)
Head First Java (Book)
3. Introduction to Databases
Learn SQL (MySQL, PostgreSQL) for relational databases.
Learn NoSQL (MongoDB, Firebase) for non-relational databases.
Practice CRUD operations (Create, Read, Update, Delete).
Project: Build a simple blog or notes app with a database.
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Phase 3: Specialization & Real-World Skills (6–12 Months)
Goal: Apply knowledge to real projects and specialize in a field.
1. Learn Web Development (Optional)
Frontend: HTML, CSS, JavaScript, React.js.
Backend: Node.js, Express.js, Django, Flask.
Full-stack project: Build a personal portfolio website.
2. Learn Software Development Best Practices
Version Control: Git & GitHub.
Testing & Debugging: Unit testing, debugging techniques.
System Design: Basics of designing scalable applications.
3. Introduction to Operating Systems & Networks
Learn about processes, memory management, file systems.
Understand how the internet works (HTTP, DNS, TCP/IP).
Resources:
Operating Systems: Three Easy Pieces (Book).
Cisco’s Networking Basics Course.
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Phase 4: Advanced Topics & Career Preparation (12+ Months)
Goal: Gain expertise and work on advanced projects.
1. Advanced Algorithms & Data Structures
Dynamic Programming
Graph Algorithms
Advanced Searching & Sorting
2. Cybersecurity & Cryptography (Optional)
Learn about encryption, authentication, and hacking techniques.
Explore ethical hacking & penetration testing.
3. Machine Learning & AI (Optional)
Learn Python libraries (NumPy, Pandas, TensorFlow).
Build a basic AI model (image recognition, chatbot, etc.).
4. Build Real-World Projects & Prepare for Jobs
Contribute to open-source projects on GitHub.
Build a portfolio of projects showcasing your skills.
Prepare for technical interviews (LeetCode, InterviewBit).
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Final Tips for Success
✅ Practice coding daily (even 30 minutes a day).
✅ Work on projects—real learning comes from building.
✅ Read code from open-source projects to learn best practices.
✅ Participate in hackathons and coding challenges.
✅ Join online communities (Reddit, GitHub, Stack Overflow).
