Harvard CS50. Introduction to Computer Science

Introduction to the intellectual enterprises of computer science and the art of programming.

This course teaches students how to think algorithmically and solve problems efficiently. Topics include abstraction, algorithms, data structures, encapsulation, resource management, security, software engineering, and web programming.

Languages include C, Python, and SQL plus HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Problem sets inspired by the arts, humanities, social sciences, and sciences. Course culminates in a final project. Designed for concentrators and non-concentrators alike, with or without prior programming experience.

Two thirds of CS50 students have never taken CS before. Among the overarching goals of this course are to inspire students to explore unfamiliar waters, without fear of failure, create an intensive, shared experience, accessible to all students, and build community among students.



Lectures List


  • Lecture 0 - Scratch
  • Lecture 1 - C
  • Lecture 2 - Arrays
  • Lecture 3 - Algorithms
  • Lecture 4 - Memory
  • Lecture 5 - Data Structures
  • Lecture 6 - Python
  • Lecture 7 - SQL
  • Lecture 8 - HTML, CSS, JavaScript
  • Lecture 9 - Flask
  • Lecture 10 - Emoji
  • Lecture 11 - Cybersecurity



What is programming?



Programming is the process of creating computer programs or software by writing instructions that tell a computer what to do. It involves using programming languages to communicate with the computer and solve problems.



Why should I learn programming?



Learning programming opens up a world of possibilities. It allows you to create your own applications, websites, games, and software tools. Programming also enhances problem-solving and critical thinking skills, which are valuable in various fields.



How do I get started with programming?



To get started, choose a programming language that suits your interests and goals. Popular languages for beginners include Python, JavaScript, and Ruby. There are many online tutorials, courses, and resources available to help you learn the basics of programming.



What are the fundamental concepts in programming?



The fundamental concepts in programming include variables, data types, control structures, loops, functions, and object-oriented programming (OOP). Understanding these concepts will provide a solid foundation for writing code and solving problems.



What are variables and why are they important?



Variables are containers that store and manipulate data in a program. They allow you to store values, such as numbers or text, and use them in calculations or operations. Variables make your code flexible and enable you to work with different data efficiently.



What are control structures?



Control structures are programming constructs that determine the flow of execution in a program. They include conditional statements (if-else), loops (for, while), and switch statements. Control structures allow you to make decisions and repeat actions based on certain conditions.



What are functions?



Functions are blocks of code that perform specific tasks. They allow you to break down your program into smaller, reusable parts, making your code more modular and easier to maintain. Functions can take input (arguments) and return output (return values) to interact with other parts of your program.



What are data structures?



Data structures are containers for organizing and managing data in your programs. Common data structures include arrays, lists, and dictionaries. They enable you to store collections of values and manipulate them efficiently, improving the performance and organization of your code.



How can I create interactive projects?



To create interactive projects, you need to understand event-driven programming. This approach allows your code to respond to user actions or events, such as mouse clicks or keyboard inputs. By capturing and handling these events, you can create engaging applications and games.



How can I improve my problem-solving skills in programming?



Computational thinking is a problem-solving approach used by programmers. It involves breaking down problems into smaller steps and designing efficient algorithms to solve them. By practicing computational thinking, you can enhance your problem-solving skills and think like a programmer.



How do I debug and troubleshoot my code?



Debugging is the process of finding and fixing errors or bugs in your code. To troubleshoot your code, you can use techniques such as logging, debugging tools, and systematic error checking. Understanding common errors and employing debugging strategies will help you unravel the mysteries of your code.



How can I collaborate and learn from others in programming?



Joining the programming community can be beneficial for learning and growth. Online forums, coding communities, and open-source projects provide opportunities to connect with fellow programmers, seek help, and collaborate on projects. Utilize available resources and engage with the programming community to expand your knowledge and skills.


Full course is available here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IDDmrzzB14M&list=PLhQjrBD2T380F_inVRXMIHCqLaNUd7bN4


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