Question regarding computer science....

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the challenges of learning computer programming, particularly the perceived need for "natural instinct" versus the belief in improvement through hard work. Participants explore the difficulties faced in applying programming concepts and logic, as well as the broader implications of pursuing a degree in computer science.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses difficulty in programming, noting that while some problems are easy for classmates, others are challenging for them, leading to questions about natural instinct versus hard work.
  • Another participant suggests that talent may manifest in different areas of programming, indicating that some aspects might be inherently easier for certain individuals.
  • Several participants discuss the importance of hard work and practice in developing programming skills, with one stating that the basic conclusion is correct regarding the need for effort.
  • There is a suggestion that programming is not solely about instinct, but also about the analysis of processes and logic, which can be developed through practice.
  • One participant questions whether they should pursue computer science, acknowledging their understanding of syntax but struggling with application, and seeks advice on improving through hard work.
  • Another participant emphasizes the importance of passion for the subject when considering a course of study in computer science.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that hard work and practice are essential for improving programming skills. However, there is no consensus on the role of natural instinct versus learned skills, with multiple competing views remaining on this topic.

Contextual Notes

Some participants highlight the variability in individual experiences with programming, suggesting that different aspects of programming may be easier or harder for different people. There are also references to the educational structure and how it may affect learning outcomes.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for students considering a degree in computer science, particularly those who struggle with programming concepts and are seeking insights on improving their skills through practice and understanding.

sankalpmittal
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I would very much appreciate if you could shed some of your insight on the following question that has been troubling me.

I faced difficulty in computer programming as many times I could not find logic for even a simple problem (which many other classmates would do easily) while in some cases I could write programs for even some difficult problems (which some of my classmates could not do). For many of my classmates, programming was very easy, but for me it was difficult (especially incorporating the correct logic or steps in pseudo code involved in a given program; even if it were correct, it wasn't that efficient).

Now here is where my dilemma starts. Many say computer programming is about "natural instinct" and I think I can improve myself through hard work. Am I right?

Please help!

Thanks in advance...
 
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You are correct - many people do say that computer programming is about natural instinct and you can improve yourself with hard work.

Your talent lies where you find something easy that all those around you find difficult - especially if it is hard to see why everyone else finds it difficult.
A side effect of this is that education is geared towards people with less talent in the field - so the earlier, simpler, learning tasks may be difficult for you.
Those tasks are designed to build an intuition or good work-habits that everyone else does not have.

OTOH: it could just be that some kinds of programming is difficult for you and other kinds easy :)
 
So should I opt for computer science? I mean its not only about programming right? I do understand syntax etc of a given programming language. Only problem is application which I often faced as a student of science. I find myself stuck at many programs and others were adept at making them. Also if I can make logic successfully its declared to be inefficient or rather lengthy even if it was correct. So should I opt for it hoping to improve it by practice or hardwork?

Thanks again.
 
sankalpmittal said:
I would very much appreciate if you could shed some of your insight on the following question that has been troubling me.

I faced difficulty in computer programming as many times I could not find logic for even a simple problem (which many other classmates would do easily) while in some cases I could write programs for even some difficult problems (which some of my classmates could not do). For many of my classmates, programming was very easy, but for me it was difficult (especially incorporating the correct logic or steps in pseudo code involved in a given program; even if it were correct, it wasn't that efficient).

Now here is where my dilemma starts. Many say computer programming is about "natural instinct" and I think I can improve myself through hard work. Am I right?

Please help!

Thanks in advance...
Analysis of process and logic. Hhelll NOT natural instinct!
 
sankalpmittal said:
So should I opt for computer science? I mean its not only about programming right? I do understand syntax etc of a given programming language. Only problem is application which I often faced as a student of science. I find myself stuck at many programs and others were adept at making them. Also if I can make logic successfully its declared to be inefficient or rather lengthy even if it was correct. So should I opt for it hoping to improve it by practice or hardwork?

Thanks again.
The basic conclusion is correct. Hard work and practice. Trying to earn course credit is a different goal than finding and developing applications for yourself or for others or for your own curiosity & development.
 
symbolipoint said:
Analysis of process and logic. Hhelll NOT natural instinct!
It is possible for someone to have an instinct for analysis of process and logic and a "feel" for programming.

sankalpmittal said:
So should I opt for computer science?
Only you can answer that question.

You should check the more advanced course options offered at your college to see what the computer science course involves there.
Most people find they struggle with some aspects of any course they are on - the key is usually if you are passionate about the subject.
 
symbolipoint said:
Analysis of process and logic. Hhelll NOT natural instinct!
Simon Bridge said:
It is possible for someone to have an instinct for analysis of process and logic and a "feel" for programming.
...

Okay, that is very possible. Learning to analyze and formulate logical processes is something that a person can accomplish with hard work. Your point is supportable. The first REAL Physics course (mostly mechanics as in Physics 1 of the typical lower division series) was a big struggle for me. The result was that I became better at learning to analyze, draw diagrams, form equations, and then trust my algebra to solve problems. I still have this kind of skill today.
 
Thank you both for your replies...
 

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