1. Data Structures & Algorithms
Why?
Data structures and algorithms are the backbone of computer science. An algorithm refers to the logical computational steps it takes to solve a problem. A data structure is a way to organize and store data effectively.
Learning the common algorithms and data structures will help you solve problems more efficiently in your applications.
Resources
Books
- Introduction to Algorithms by Thomas Cormen, Charles Leiserson, Ronald Rivest & Clifford Stein
- Algorithms by Robert Sedgewick & Kevin Wayne
Courses
2. Computer Networking
Why?
Networking refers to the communication of data between networks. Understanding the basic concepts of computer networking will help you as a developer understand the magic behind how computers send and receive data.
Resources
Books
- Computer Networking: A Top-Down Approach by Ross Keith W. & Kurose James F.
- Computer Networks by Andrew Tanenbaum & David Wetherall
Courses
3. Operating Systems
Why?
Studying operating systems will give you an understanding of how computers work under the hood. You will learn how processes and memory are managed, and how applications are able to run concurrently with other processes, among many other things.
Resources
Books
- Operating Systems: Three Easy Pieces by Remzi H Arpaci-Dusseau & Andrea C Arpaci-Dusseau
- Operating System Concepts by Abraham Silberschatz, Peter Galvin & Gerg Gagne
Courses
4. Database Management
Why?
A database is an organized collection of data, allowing storage and retrieval of data. As a developer you will be working with a lot of data; knowing how to effectively store and retrieve this data will go a long way.
Resources
Books
- Designing Data-Intensive Applications by Martin Kleppmann
- Database Design for Mere Mortals: A Hands-On Guide to Relational Database Design by Michael Hernandez
Courses
5. Design Patterns
Why?
Design patterns are reusable solutions to commonly occurring problems in software development. Learning design patterns will help you conquer problems you are faced with as a developer more effectively. Having good knowledge of design patterns will allow you to weigh up the pros & cons of potential solutions, allowing you to pick the best tool for the job.
Resources
Books
- Design Patterns: Elements of Reusable Object-Oriented Software by Erich Gamma, Richard Helm, Ralph Johnson & John Vlissides
- Head First Design Patterns: A Brain-Friendly Guide by Eric Freeman, Bert Bates, Kathy Sierra & Elisabeth Robson
Courses
6. Compiler Design
Why?
Compilation refers to the translation of high-level code down to machine code so that your CPU is able to understand it. By understanding the compilation process, you will understand how programming languages are made, which will allow you to make better use of a language; such as being able to optimize code better, as well as improve debugging skills, and more.
Resources
Books
- Compilers: Principles, Techniques and Tools by Alfred Aho, Monica Lam, Ravi Sethi, Jeffrey Ullman
- Engineering a Compiler by Keith Cooper & Linda Torczon
Courses
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