22 answers
22 answers
Updated
Jeff’s Answer
Hi Klaus,
Interesting question! I admire your ambition! However, as others have said, computers encompass such a huge diversity of areas and knowledge, no one will ever be able to become master of every aspect.
I was a professor and I had a student who was somewhat cocky. He told me before the first class that he could not respect any computer science professor who didn't know all the answers. I told him that I had a BS in computer science, MS in software engineering and was finishing up my PhD in computer security. I spent ,at that point, 33 years in the industry designing, developing and creating hardware, software and firmware. I had been a lead technical editor and advisor for Que Publishing. I had been in charge of several different computer science programs at multiple universities. I had also programmed on mainframes, mini-computers, PCs and micro-processors. And, the one thing that I learned from all of that is how very little I actually knew!
I recommend that you scale back a bit on your ambition, focus on really understanding and becoming an expert in a specific area that you enjoy and be flexible. The world of computers is constantly changing and evolving and you will need to evolve as well!
Best of luck!
Interesting question! I admire your ambition! However, as others have said, computers encompass such a huge diversity of areas and knowledge, no one will ever be able to become master of every aspect.
I was a professor and I had a student who was somewhat cocky. He told me before the first class that he could not respect any computer science professor who didn't know all the answers. I told him that I had a BS in computer science, MS in software engineering and was finishing up my PhD in computer security. I spent ,at that point, 33 years in the industry designing, developing and creating hardware, software and firmware. I had been a lead technical editor and advisor for Que Publishing. I had been in charge of several different computer science programs at multiple universities. I had also programmed on mainframes, mini-computers, PCs and micro-processors. And, the one thing that I learned from all of that is how very little I actually knew!
I recommend that you scale back a bit on your ambition, focus on really understanding and becoming an expert in a specific area that you enjoy and be flexible. The world of computers is constantly changing and evolving and you will need to evolve as well!
Best of luck!
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Matt’s Answer
The realm of IT and Computer Science is a vibrant, ever-changing landscape, and it's okay not to know everything. In my journey, I've seen engineers who choose to specialize in one particular area, be it programming, operations, networking, cybersecurity, and so forth. Yet, there are also those who relish the challenge of dabbling in multiple areas, becoming a versatile all-rounder.
If you're just starting out, I'd suggest considering a role as a System Administrator. This position offers a broad learning experience, encompassing operating systems, networking, coding, databases, applications, and more, depending on the organization. It's a fantastic opportunity to dip your toes in various aspects of the field, helping you discover your passion and potential specialty.
Remember, this is your journey into the exciting world of computer science. Embrace it, enjoy it, and let your curiosity guide you. I hope this advice serves you well!
If you're just starting out, I'd suggest considering a role as a System Administrator. This position offers a broad learning experience, encompassing operating systems, networking, coding, databases, applications, and more, depending on the organization. It's a fantastic opportunity to dip your toes in various aspects of the field, helping you discover your passion and potential specialty.
Remember, this is your journey into the exciting world of computer science. Embrace it, enjoy it, and let your curiosity guide you. I hope this advice serves you well!
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Elliot’s Answer
Don't worry about being a "guru" - work hard, study/read a lot, and build projects for yourself and others. Soon you will become "competent" and that is more important than being considered a guru. Gurus become know as being gurus after being competent for a long time and having a lot of experience.
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Fred’s Answer
My advice would be to set more realistic goals.
Computer science is such a large field of study that it is basically impossible to know everything. It is certainly a good idea to be knowledgeable in many areas, but you can spend an entire career focusing on one area and never learn everything about that field, let alone the scores of others.
Decide what area you find most interesting. It could be programming, networking, security, hardware design, or something else. Then work on becoming really good at that. Learn a bit about other areas - after all, a good programmer needs to know some security concepts so they write secure code - but try to be good at one field, rather than mediocre at many.
Computer science is such a large field of study that it is basically impossible to know everything. It is certainly a good idea to be knowledgeable in many areas, but you can spend an entire career focusing on one area and never learn everything about that field, let alone the scores of others.
Decide what area you find most interesting. It could be programming, networking, security, hardware design, or something else. Then work on becoming really good at that. Learn a bit about other areas - after all, a good programmer needs to know some security concepts so they write secure code - but try to be good at one field, rather than mediocre at many.
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Ted’s Answer
The computer industry is teeming with a variety of skills. Start by identifying a couple of areas that truly captivate your interest. Upon deciding, dedicate yourself to mastering these areas. Immerse yourself in reading materials, seize opportunities for formal training, and persistently seek out information and knowledge in your chosen fields.
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varun’s Answer
The essential ingredients for success include consistent practice (maintaining a hands-on approach) and keeping yourself informed about the most recent trends in your industry.
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Hasnain’s Answer
That's a great goal! Becoming a "computer guru" isn't about knowing everything, but rather having a deep understanding of core concepts and a passion for continuous learning. Here's a roadmap to guide you:
Fundamentals:
Hardware: Understand the basic components of a computer (CPU, RAM, storage, etc.) and how they work together.
Software: Learn about operating systems (Windows, macOS, Linux), applications, and programming languages.
Networking: Get familiar with how computers communicate with each other over the internet.
Choose a Path:
Hardware Specialist: Focus on building and repairing computers, troubleshooting hardware issues.
Software Developer: Learn programming languages like Python, Java, or C++ to create applications or websites.
Network Administrator: Manage networks, ensure security, and troubleshoot connectivity problems.
Cybersecurity Expert: Protect systems and data from cyberattacks.
Gain Experience:
Personal Projects: Build your own computer, create a website, or develop a simple app.
Internships: Gain practical experience in a real-world environment.
Certifications: Demonstrate your expertise in specific areas.
Continuous Learning:
Stay Updated: Technology is constantly evolving, so keep up with the latest trends and developments.
Read Blogs and Articles: Follow industry experts and learn from their insights.
Attend Conferences and Workshops: Network with other professionals and learn new skills.
Tips for Success:
Be Curious: Ask questions, explore new technologies, and experiment.
Be Patient: It takes time and effort to master complex concepts.
Be Persistent: Don't give up when faced with challenges.
Be Resourceful: Utilize online resources, books, and courses to learn new skills.
Remember, becoming a computer guru is a journey, not a destination. Embrace the challenge, stay curious, and never stop learning!
Online Courses: Coursera, Udemy, edX offer a wide range of computer science courses.
Websites: Stack Overflow, GitHub, and tech blogs are great sources of information and support.
Communities: Join online forums or local groups to connect with other computer enthusiasts.
Fundamentals:
Hardware: Understand the basic components of a computer (CPU, RAM, storage, etc.) and how they work together.
Software: Learn about operating systems (Windows, macOS, Linux), applications, and programming languages.
Networking: Get familiar with how computers communicate with each other over the internet.
Choose a Path:
Hardware Specialist: Focus on building and repairing computers, troubleshooting hardware issues.
Software Developer: Learn programming languages like Python, Java, or C++ to create applications or websites.
Network Administrator: Manage networks, ensure security, and troubleshoot connectivity problems.
Cybersecurity Expert: Protect systems and data from cyberattacks.
Gain Experience:
Personal Projects: Build your own computer, create a website, or develop a simple app.
Internships: Gain practical experience in a real-world environment.
Certifications: Demonstrate your expertise in specific areas.
Continuous Learning:
Stay Updated: Technology is constantly evolving, so keep up with the latest trends and developments.
Read Blogs and Articles: Follow industry experts and learn from their insights.
Attend Conferences and Workshops: Network with other professionals and learn new skills.
Tips for Success:
Be Curious: Ask questions, explore new technologies, and experiment.
Be Patient: It takes time and effort to master complex concepts.
Be Persistent: Don't give up when faced with challenges.
Be Resourceful: Utilize online resources, books, and courses to learn new skills.
Remember, becoming a computer guru is a journey, not a destination. Embrace the challenge, stay curious, and never stop learning!
Hasnain recommends the following next steps:
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Sean’s Answer
To excel as a proficient computer scientist, it's essential to blend formal education, practical know-how, and perpetual learning. Here are some empowering tips for you.
1. Enroll in courses. Immerse yourself in as many Computer Science courses as possible to enhance your coding abilities and comprehension of computer logic.
2. Gain real-world experience. Engage in authentic projects or internships. Join coding contests, hackathons, and open-source initiatives to put your skills into action.
3. Develop a portfolio. Compile a portfolio showcasing your projects and coding examples. This could be a personal website or a GitHub repository demonstrating your accomplishments.
4. Master software tools. Get comfortable with crucial software tools and platforms prevalent in the industry. This includes version control systems like Git, Integrated Development Environments (IDEs), and cloud platforms such as AWS.
5. Sharpen problem-solving skills. Regularly exercise problem-solving on platforms like LeetCode. This will ready you for technical interviews.
6. Acquire certifications. Think about earning certifications in specific technologies or skills, such as the Certified Ethical Hacker or Cisco Certified Design Expert (CCDE) Certification.
7. Hone soft skills. Don't overlook soft skills such as communication and teamwork. These skills hold equal importance.
These suggestions should guide you on your journey. Best of luck!
1. Enroll in courses. Immerse yourself in as many Computer Science courses as possible to enhance your coding abilities and comprehension of computer logic.
2. Gain real-world experience. Engage in authentic projects or internships. Join coding contests, hackathons, and open-source initiatives to put your skills into action.
3. Develop a portfolio. Compile a portfolio showcasing your projects and coding examples. This could be a personal website or a GitHub repository demonstrating your accomplishments.
4. Master software tools. Get comfortable with crucial software tools and platforms prevalent in the industry. This includes version control systems like Git, Integrated Development Environments (IDEs), and cloud platforms such as AWS.
5. Sharpen problem-solving skills. Regularly exercise problem-solving on platforms like LeetCode. This will ready you for technical interviews.
6. Acquire certifications. Think about earning certifications in specific technologies or skills, such as the Certified Ethical Hacker or Cisco Certified Design Expert (CCDE) Certification.
7. Hone soft skills. Don't overlook soft skills such as communication and teamwork. These skills hold equal importance.
These suggestions should guide you on your journey. Best of luck!
Updated
William’s Answer
Remember all of the systems have to work together to provide the services to the end user. One time I solved a problem no one else could because everyone else was busy arguing "there's nothing wrong with my part of the system." Eventually I found a problem in a setting of a computer system that belonged to another team. Many companies still use the old "waterfall" approach where different kinds of technologies (database, servers, etc) belong to different teams. But everything must work together for the system to perform correctly, regardless of "what team it belongs to."
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Robert’s Answer
Hi Klaus,
As someone that didn't start my journey into computer science until later in life, I know that it can be a daunting topic to explore. Computer science has such a wide range of topics, I found it quite helpful to get experience in a many different areas of software development to find your best fit.
The field is constantly evolving, that's why we call ourselves lifelong learners! It's important to find a topic in software development that you enjoy (full stack development, web development, mobile development, cybersecurity, etc.). That way through genuine interest, it will push you to keep gathering a wealth of deep knowledge to attain that "guru" status that you are looking for!
As someone that didn't start my journey into computer science until later in life, I know that it can be a daunting topic to explore. Computer science has such a wide range of topics, I found it quite helpful to get experience in a many different areas of software development to find your best fit.
The field is constantly evolving, that's why we call ourselves lifelong learners! It's important to find a topic in software development that you enjoy (full stack development, web development, mobile development, cybersecurity, etc.). That way through genuine interest, it will push you to keep gathering a wealth of deep knowledge to attain that "guru" status that you are looking for!
Updated
Malgorzata’s Answer
Start with a learning curriculum appropriate to your current level of expertise. There are a lot of approachable courses online, for example Udemy. Practice as you learn. Find a mentor, a personal coach to help you navigate the space - it is pretty overwhelming. A mentor can help narrow it down to the area that sounds most exciting to you.
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Aishwarya’s Answer
Becoming a computer guru involves a combination of education, practice, and continuous learning. Here's a roadmap to help you on this journey:
1. Get Formal Education
Consider pursuing a formal education in computer science or a related field. This will provide you with a strong foundation in key concepts and principles. It's also essential to understanding the theoretical underpinnings of the field, which can help you grasp more complex topics later on.
2. Specialize in a Specific Area
While a broad understanding of computer science is valuable, becoming a guru often means specializing in a specific area. This could be anything from data analysis, software development, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, etc. Identify what interests you most and dive deep into learning that topic.
3. Gain Practical Experience
Theoretical knowledge is important, but practical experience is where you really learn. Apply your skills to real-world problems as much as possible. This could be through internships, projects, freelancing, or even your own personal experiments.
4. Keep Up with Industry Trends
The tech industry evolves rapidly. To be a guru, you need to stay on top of the latest trends, technologies, and best practices. Follow industry news, attend conferences, and engage with other professionals in the field.
5. Continuously Learn and Improve
Never stop learning. Regularly seek out new courses, certifications, and learning resources to expand your knowledge. The more you know, the better equipped you'll be to solve complex problems and innovate.
6. Share Your Knowledge
True gurus don't keep their knowledge to themselves; they share it with others. Consider starting a blog, creating a YouTube channel, speaking at conferences, or teaching courses. Sharing your knowledge not only helps others but also solidifies your own understanding and establishes you as an authority in your field.
7. Network with Other Professionals
Join professional networks, online communities, and forums. Networking can provide you with opportunities to learn from others, gain new perspectives, and even find new opportunities.
Remember, becoming a computer guru is a journey, not a destination. It requires ongoing effort, curiosity, and a passion for the field.
1. Get Formal Education
Consider pursuing a formal education in computer science or a related field. This will provide you with a strong foundation in key concepts and principles. It's also essential to understanding the theoretical underpinnings of the field, which can help you grasp more complex topics later on.
2. Specialize in a Specific Area
While a broad understanding of computer science is valuable, becoming a guru often means specializing in a specific area. This could be anything from data analysis, software development, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, etc. Identify what interests you most and dive deep into learning that topic.
3. Gain Practical Experience
Theoretical knowledge is important, but practical experience is where you really learn. Apply your skills to real-world problems as much as possible. This could be through internships, projects, freelancing, or even your own personal experiments.
4. Keep Up with Industry Trends
The tech industry evolves rapidly. To be a guru, you need to stay on top of the latest trends, technologies, and best practices. Follow industry news, attend conferences, and engage with other professionals in the field.
5. Continuously Learn and Improve
Never stop learning. Regularly seek out new courses, certifications, and learning resources to expand your knowledge. The more you know, the better equipped you'll be to solve complex problems and innovate.
6. Share Your Knowledge
True gurus don't keep their knowledge to themselves; they share it with others. Consider starting a blog, creating a YouTube channel, speaking at conferences, or teaching courses. Sharing your knowledge not only helps others but also solidifies your own understanding and establishes you as an authority in your field.
7. Network with Other Professionals
Join professional networks, online communities, and forums. Networking can provide you with opportunities to learn from others, gain new perspectives, and even find new opportunities.
Remember, becoming a computer guru is a journey, not a destination. It requires ongoing effort, curiosity, and a passion for the field.
I second Aishwarya's answer. It is a long journey to become a guru!
Malgorzata Schwab
Updated
Bhuvaneswari’s Answer
To become a guru takes time and experience will definitely help you become a GURU.
As a student, you can pick a course that interests you the most. For example if you want to become web developer, start from HTML, css, Bootsrtap etc.. if you want to develop applications you can pick any programming language like c/c++/ java .Net or Salesforce etc. Start developing from scratch while learning; you will make mistake and learn from them. There are also other fields like Networking. Research more about each technology that interest you and helps you analyze more. Good luck for your future!
As a student, you can pick a course that interests you the most. For example if you want to become web developer, start from HTML, css, Bootsrtap etc.. if you want to develop applications you can pick any programming language like c/c++/ java .Net or Salesforce etc. Start developing from scratch while learning; you will make mistake and learn from them. There are also other fields like Networking. Research more about each technology that interest you and helps you analyze more. Good luck for your future!
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Jarod’s Answer
Hi Klaus,
I'm glad to see somebody that is interested in learning all that they possibly can about a topic such as computers. Just know, that the field of IT and Computer Science, Cybersecurity, etc. is so vast and there is so much to learn that it will take a lifetime of learning to achieve "guru" status. The best advice I can give is to never stop learning, and to always take opportunities to learn new things and grow. Best of luck on your journey!
I'm glad to see somebody that is interested in learning all that they possibly can about a topic such as computers. Just know, that the field of IT and Computer Science, Cybersecurity, etc. is so vast and there is so much to learn that it will take a lifetime of learning to achieve "guru" status. The best advice I can give is to never stop learning, and to always take opportunities to learn new things and grow. Best of luck on your journey!
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chandrashekar’s Answer
The world of computers is vast and diverse, much like the world of cinema. Just as it takes many hands to create a blockbuster movie, it takes a multitude of skills to make a computer function smoothly. The secret to mastering this expansive field lies in understanding the basics first. Once you've got a grip on the fundamentals, you can delve into the areas that spark your interest the most. So, keep learning, keep exploring, and you'll find your niche in this exciting world of computers.
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Debasis’s Answer
Fascinating question! The journey towards becoming a computer 'Guru' is indeed a vast and highly personal one.
From a learning perspective, here are some crucial areas to concentrate on:
- Understanding Computer Hardware: Get a firm grip on the basics of computer hardware.
- Exploring Software Applications: Immerse yourself in a variety of software applications.
- Excelling in Programming Languages: Aim to become proficient in a range of programming languages.
- Developing Advanced Skills: Understand key areas like security, networking, and design patterns.
- Enhancing Troubleshooting Skills: Hone your problem-solving abilities in various areas like hardware, programming, and more.
- Keeping Up-to-Date: Make sure to regularly update your knowledge with the latest breakthroughs in data, programming, and other relevant fields.
From a learning perspective, here are some crucial areas to concentrate on:
- Understanding Computer Hardware: Get a firm grip on the basics of computer hardware.
- Exploring Software Applications: Immerse yourself in a variety of software applications.
- Excelling in Programming Languages: Aim to become proficient in a range of programming languages.
- Developing Advanced Skills: Understand key areas like security, networking, and design patterns.
- Enhancing Troubleshooting Skills: Hone your problem-solving abilities in various areas like hardware, programming, and more.
- Keeping Up-to-Date: Make sure to regularly update your knowledge with the latest breakthroughs in data, programming, and other relevant fields.
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Yan’s Answer
To excel as a computer whiz, not only do you need a deep understanding and proficiency in the computer realm, but you also need to apply these skills to resolve actual issues people encounter. So, I recommend pinpointing an area that truly captivates you. Discover the real challenges people within this sphere are grappling with, and then deploy your computer expertise to assist them in overcoming these hurdles. This approach will not only enhance your skills but also make a positive impact on others.
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DEVANG’s Answer
Hey there! If you're setting your sights on shining in the world of computer science, it's crucial to immerse yourself fully in your chosen field. Let's say you're already acquainted with a programming language; your next step should be to master it. Regular, dedicated practice is your secret weapon to becoming a whiz in computer science. Always keep in mind, practice makes perfect - the more you practice, the more skilled you'll become!
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Aman’s Answer
Hi Klaus,
Becoming a computer guru is an exciting journey, and there are some actionable steps you can take to deepen your knowledge in the field. First and foremost, consider diving into coding, as it's fundamental to understanding how computers operate. Start with accessible languages like Python, which is versatile for beginners and widely used in various applications, from web development to data science. Websites like Codecademy and freeCodeCamp offer structured paths to guide you through your first programming challenges.
Moreover, you should familiarize yourself with the basics of computer architecture. Understanding how hardware and software interact can give you insights into optimizing performance and solving complex problems. Books like "Computer Networking: A Top-Down Approach" by Kurose and Ross can provide a solid theoretical foundation while incorporating practical examples. If you have access, labs at local community colleges often offer hands-on experience.
Don't forget the power of online courses. Platforms like Coursera and edX provide courses from top universities on a variety of computer science topics, from artificial intelligence to cloud computing. Additionally, joining coding bootcamps can accelerate your pace and give you networking opportunities with instructors and peers.
Building projects can pivot you from theory to practice. Whether it's developing a simple app, contributing to open-source, or creating a personal website, real-world experience is invaluable. GitHub is perfect for showcasing your projects and collaborating with others. Networking with like-minded individuals through platforms like LinkedIn or local tech meetups in Atlanta can introduce you to industry professionals and potential mentors. Trust me, these connections will prove invaluable as you progress.
Embrace the continuous learning mindset; technology evolves rapidly, and there’s always something new to explore. Good luck on your journey to becoming a computer guru!
Becoming a computer guru is an exciting journey, and there are some actionable steps you can take to deepen your knowledge in the field. First and foremost, consider diving into coding, as it's fundamental to understanding how computers operate. Start with accessible languages like Python, which is versatile for beginners and widely used in various applications, from web development to data science. Websites like Codecademy and freeCodeCamp offer structured paths to guide you through your first programming challenges.
Moreover, you should familiarize yourself with the basics of computer architecture. Understanding how hardware and software interact can give you insights into optimizing performance and solving complex problems. Books like "Computer Networking: A Top-Down Approach" by Kurose and Ross can provide a solid theoretical foundation while incorporating practical examples. If you have access, labs at local community colleges often offer hands-on experience.
Don't forget the power of online courses. Platforms like Coursera and edX provide courses from top universities on a variety of computer science topics, from artificial intelligence to cloud computing. Additionally, joining coding bootcamps can accelerate your pace and give you networking opportunities with instructors and peers.
Building projects can pivot you from theory to practice. Whether it's developing a simple app, contributing to open-source, or creating a personal website, real-world experience is invaluable. GitHub is perfect for showcasing your projects and collaborating with others. Networking with like-minded individuals through platforms like LinkedIn or local tech meetups in Atlanta can introduce you to industry professionals and potential mentors. Trust me, these connections will prove invaluable as you progress.
Embrace the continuous learning mindset; technology evolves rapidly, and there’s always something new to explore. Good luck on your journey to becoming a computer guru!
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Shikha’s Answer
The term "Guru" carries significant weight, just as the field of Computers is immensely broad. To become a 'versatile learner yet master of none', the key is to stay abreast of the latest technological developments. This will provide you with insights into the emerging tech knowledge that the market craves. Consider focusing on one subject at a time, progressively learning new aspects in the computer field.
Alternatively, if your goal is to become a specialist in a specific IT domain, it's essential to grasp its fundamental concepts, whether they're software or hardware related. Expand your knowledge by exploring various sources, obtaining certifications, or taking exams that can effectively assess your domain expertise. Remember, every step you take towards learning is a step closer to mastery. So, keep going!
Alternatively, if your goal is to become a specialist in a specific IT domain, it's essential to grasp its fundamental concepts, whether they're software or hardware related. Expand your knowledge by exploring various sources, obtaining certifications, or taking exams that can effectively assess your domain expertise. Remember, every step you take towards learning is a step closer to mastery. So, keep going!
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Ann’s Answer
To become the best computer guru one needs to develop a combination of technical skills, problem-solving abilities and continuous learning habits. One should master the basics of understanding computer fundamentals; learn how computers work including hardware, operating systems and troubleshooting. Learn programming by starting with beginner-friendly languages like python, then move to others like java script. Also explore familiarize yourself with software. Build practical skills like apps, websites or software to practice and demonstrate your skills. Stay updated for example by subscribing to learning platforms and following tech trends, this helps a lot to be the best. Develop problem solving skills, build your reputation through creating online presence{Linked in, GitHub} By blending technical expertise with creativity and a thirst for knowledge, you can truly become the best guru
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Patricia’s Answer
Dive into the fascinating world of computer science and explore its diverse aspects. Begin with the basics and gradually enhance your skills. Find out which branch of computer science captivates you the most. The field is vast, brimming with numerous applications and uses, offering you a wealth of knowledge to gain. Remember, the world of computers and platforms is ever-evolving, so be adaptable and prepared to embrace fresh challenges each day. It's an exciting journey, so stay motivated!