How to Learn Algorithms from Scratch as a Career Changer in North America

For many students studying in North America, transitioning to a software development role often brings up one major hurdle: algorithms. This is particularly tough for international students with no computer science background. At first, everything seems difficult — reading a problem might feel like decoding another language, and writing the code to solve it seems impossible. However, the truth is, algorithms are not reserved for the naturally gifted. With the right approach, anyone can gradually learn them, even if you start from zero.

In the beginning, it’s not about how many problems you solve, but about understanding the core concepts. The principles behind data structures and algorithms form the foundation for everything. It’s important to know how structures like arrays, hash tables, stacks, and trees work, and which types of problems each structure is good for. The same goes for common algorithms like binary search, recursion, and dynamic programming — it’s essential to understand the thought process behind them. Many people find learning through videos useful. Channels like NeetCode or Coderbyte on YouTube break things down in an easy-to-understand way.

Once you have a basic understanding, solving problems will become much easier. Beginners should focus on solving problems by category — for example, tackling all the array and hash table problems first. The goal isn’t to rush through them, but to understand the underlying logic. Before jumping to the solution, try to figure it out yourself. Even if you can’t solve it immediately, spend some time thinking through it. Afterward, compare your solution with the given one and see if there’s a better way to approach the problem. This process helps reinforce your understanding and makes it easier to solve similar problems later on.

One often overlooked part of problem-solving is that it also helps improve how you express your thoughts. In interviews, especially in North America, it’s not just about writing the right code; it’s also about clearly explaining your approach. So, as you work through problems, try explaining your reasoning in English or jotting it down in comments. As you progress, practicing mock interviews with friends can be a great way to boost your confidence and prepare for real interviews.

At the end of the day, learning algorithms isn’t about who’s the smartest. It’s about who is persistent and follows the right approach. The competition for jobs in North America is tough, but if you stay consistent and improve a little every day, you’ll find that after a few months, you’ll go from feeling lost to confidently handling interviews. This is the real value of making a career change: no matter where you start, if you keep moving forward, success is within reach.