Hi everyone,

I am new to Codeforces and have never studied Data Structures & Algorithms (DSA) or Competitive Programming (CP) before. I would appreciate some guidance from experienced programmers.

My Questions

1. Problem Selection and Rating Progression

I currently solve problems from the Codeforces problemset within a range of my current rating ±100. Is this a good approach?

If it is, how do I know when I should move on to the next rating level?

• Should I move up after solving around 50–60 problems at a particular rating?
• Or should I continue solving problems at that rating until I feel completely comfortable with them?

The reason I ask is that even after solving more than 80 problems, I still get stuck on some problems, although I can solve many others at the same rating. What should I do in this situation?

2. Using Other Platforms or Problem Sheets

Do I need to practice on other platforms or use problem sheets (such as A2OJ, CSES, USACO Guide, etc.)?

• If yes, when should I start using them?
• How are they helpful compared to solving problems directly from the Codeforces problemset?

Thank you for your help and advice!

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