I'm new to programming and currently learning Python for Data Science, as most tutorials suggest it's sufficient. However, I keep seeing job descriptions requiring knowledge of C++ in addition to Python. I'm a bit puzzled about this. Can someone explain why C++ is needed for Data Science roles if Python is widely taught as the primary language? Should I invest time in learning both languages, or is C++ only relevant for specific positions? Thanks for your help!
2 Answers
Even though Python dominates Data Science, it isn't uncommon for data scientists to use R and SQL as well. Python provides a friendly interface, but many libraries perform heavy lifting behind the scenes using C or C++. So, if you’re aware of C++, it can give you an edge, especially in companies that might work with their own coding solutions.
Python is popular in Data Science, but many libraries that make Python great are actually built with C or C++. Understanding these lower-level languages can help you grasp what's happening under the hood, even if you won’t directly write C++ code. Recruiters often list C++ to attract more skilled candidates, which might boost the number of applicants who feel confident about their overall programming knowledge.
So, would it be beneficial to rewrite functions in Python if their C++ libraries aren’t working?