majoring in computer science...

[Billyman3000]

I'm thinking of majoring in computer science, but I'm not sure what to do once I'm there. What are the "prereqs" for being a good computer scientist? Do you need to have an outstanding "a priori" passion? But you never know till you go right?

I mean, I like computers, not only for video games, but also because I'd like to learn more and more about how they and programs are made, so one day I can make my own stuff, and have a good job. Also, I'd like to have a specialization in Artificial Intelligence, robots are my passion, although I can be happy working on something else.

[LifeInflux]

How old are you buddy?

Computer science has a lot of different applications... and the pre-reqs are traditionally.. logical thinking, with a strong sense of math. Programming is preferred.

It all depends on what you'd like to do... as a beginner in Computer Science, you'll start with some basic programming classes, but this should be done with some forethought. Most schools teach a broad range of languages.. and some translated better then others. Though syntax is roughly the same, and you never truly "start over" when learning a different language, there are plenty of different libraries that will make your life easier.

When programming for.. video games, there are a lot of things that go into that specifically, and it always helps to know a little about specific engines, or basic engine design as thats usually where programmers come in to play the most. Robotics is something I know little about in the computer science field, but I would imagine the software base for AI could be any basic form... running a standard such as C++ or C#.


Something important to learn about Computer Science in general... you don't always need a degree if you know your code... and having a passion for it really helps because its a lot of hard work, critical, logical, and even sometimes, abstract thinking.


If you've never taken a programming class, give it a shot... its not for everyone. Definitely take an in-class program with an instructor that has high marks for knowing the material so you can ask questions. Think ahead as to what you want to program and pick a language according to that.

C++, C# and Java are the main languages you'll find. Hope this helps, and let me know if you have any other questions.

[Billyman3000]

I'm 20.

I'm good at maths, that is, when my brain wants to work, but overall I'm good xD. I'm also good at logical thinking, but passing those thoughts into code is the hardest part. I can do it, I know I can, but it requires so much work, and sometimes I feel the urge to quit, you know, although I should resist it...

[LifeInflux]

You're young.. so you have some time to build up the skill set.

They teach you how to create flow charts early on... and you really should get into the habit of doing that... or at least be good at writing out in pseudo code what you're trying to do before actually programming it.

You can find some good beginners books to get you started.. the best thing about programming is that its simple to teach yourself given you have a patient personality. Do every example and exercise in the book as you come to them... become a member of a programming forum and bounce questions off of them if your code doesn't work (not a love forum).... create your own ideas to build solutions for.


I'll be happy to help you with what I can, but it really depends on what kind of code you are using, and my knowledge is pretty varied, but I won't be able to give you the insight an instructor would.

[namismybabe]

er.. all branches ICT available? lol... dope....

[Billyman3000]

I started off relatively well, but I'm having so much trouble in solving problems, simple stuff, like "rock, paper, scissors" in JavaScript. If I can't solve this problem, I don't think I'll be able to solve those that will come in the classes of my major... I should be able to solve it, for Christ's sake! Dammit, even 10 year olds with no clue of what they're doing can solve that simple problem! Why can't I? I don't wanna be a mediocre programmer...

[LifeInflux]

I started off relatively well, but I'm having so much trouble in solving problems, simple stuff, like "rock, paper, scissors" in JavaScript. If I can't solve this problem, I don't think I'll be able to solve those that will come in the classes of my major... I should be able to solve it, for Christ's sake! Dammit, even 10 year olds with no clue of what they're doing can solve that simple problem! Why can't I? I don't wanna be a mediocre programmer...

What exactly is the issue you're having? I might not be able to give you exact coding, but I can help you with pseudo code or assist with researching. Even the best programmers had to start somewhere. Like with any language.. learning early in life is a bit easier... your brain adheres to the material and you can remember the common libraries better.


If you'd like you can post your code here, I'll help as best I can... I'm no wizard with Java. I can probably send you an e-book for it if you need it though.