Hi Codeforces!
Many people say that Python is too slow for competitive programming and that everyone should switch to C++. While C++ is undeniably faster, I believe Python is still an amazing language for problem-solving if used correctly.
Here are a few things I learned while solving problems in Python on Codeforces:
1. PyPy 3 is a lifesaver
Never submit in pure Python 3 if execution time matters. PyPy 3 JIT compiler makes loops significantly faster.
2. Avoid input() in big loops
Using sys.stdin.read().split() instead of standard input() reduced my I/O time significantly on large datasets.
3. Python's hidden superpowers
- Built-in support for Big Integers (no need to worry about 64-bit overflow).
- Extremely fast string manipulations and list comprehensions.
- Easy-to-read syntax which lets you focus purely on the logic during contests.
Question for the community: What is your peak rating using Python/PyPy? Do you think it's worth switching to C++ after reaching Candidate Master, or can PyPy carry even higher?
Let’s discuss in the comments!
Auto comment: topic has been translated by abdulmusavir.juraev (original revision, translated revision, compare)
ofc ill switch to cpp, it lets u understand what u r doing better and is faster
(and its only allowed language in inoi)
EDIT: there is a gm who only used python in his every contest, so it is definitely possible.
Makes total sense! C++ gives you full control over memory and speed. And yeah, for official Olympiads like INOI, learning C++ is definitely mandatory. Good luck with C++!
thx, come to dm btw
Если ты достиг рейтинга кандидата в мастера написав при этом только в Питоне, это не значит что если ты прейдёшь в другой язык то будешь как новичок или ученик, потому что ты достиг этого рейтинга только блогодаря знаниям спортивного программирование а не знаниям языка. Да, по началу может быть какие-то трудности в изучение другого языка, но если привыкнешь писать код как в питоне который привык писать то будет легко решать с новым языком задачи.
conqueror_of_tourist 3200+ max
pajenegod 2400+ max
both of them have most of their submits in pypy
I’m 1800 which is in the top <4% of codeforces users and still use python for implementation light or easy problems, I’m quite well versed in it and it’s very clean and fast to write. I still use C++ for more “heavy duty” problems or specific features but Python definitely has its strengths.
glad to see people loving python
Now in order to speed up in contests, I often use Pypy3 unless I encounter problems with tags like data structures, graphs and trees. In the old days I use only one progamming language, C++, now gradually turn to Python:)
after you learn how to code in C++, you do not want to write code in python again.