Hey everyone! I'm diving into web development, and JavaScript is my go-to language. I've been thinking about learning Data Structures and Algorithms (DSA), but I keep hearing that I *must* do it in C++. I want to focus on becoming a full-stack developer, so I'm wondering if I can just do DSA using JavaScript instead. Will skipping C++ hurt my job prospects? Is it really worth the effort to pick up a whole new language just for DSA?
4 Answers
People who really understand DSA can work with it in any language—they’ll master it regardless! If your focus is JavaScript, it makes sense to tackle DSA problems within that language, especially for job interviews. I appreciate C/C++ for their use of pointers, which can clarify data structures like linked lists, but it's not a strict requirement. Just go with what works best for you!
Does it help? Not necessarily for everyone, but it can be beneficial. A lot of web dev roles focus more on building web applications rather than academic CS concepts. However, if you ignore broader DSA skills, you might miss out on some fantastic job opportunities that require them!
They often recommend C++ for its efficiency, but honestly, many people successfully use Python for DSA in interviews. With the latest updates in C++, it might not be as crucial as before. Generally, DSA concepts are the same across languages!
You don’t have to stick to any specific language to grasp DSA. I learned a lot using pseudocode back in university. If you’re self-taught, you do need a language that runs, and C/C++ can be straightforward since they expose more under-the-hood details compared to Python or JS. But really, you can implement algorithms in any language if you truly understand them!
Completely agree! Just use whatever backend language you're comfortable with. If you're only using JavaScript, TypeScript is a great option!