Data Structures and Algorithms (DSA) form the backbone of efficient programming. Whether you’re preparing for software engineering interviews, improving your problem-solving skills, or transitioning into fields like data science or web development, mastering DSA is essential.
But with so many learning platforms available today, beginners often feel confused about where to start. In this blog, we’ll break down the best places to learn the basics of DSA—based on your learning style, goals, and experience level.
1. Online Learning Platforms (Beginner-Friendly)
✔ Coursera
Coursera offers beginner-friendly courses taught by top universities like Stanford and Princeton.
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Structured syllabus
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Video-based learning
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Assignments and certificates
Recommended course: Algorithms Specialization by Stanford University
✔ edX
If you prefer academic-style learning, edX provides university-level courses on algorithms and programming foundations.
2. Free Learning Resources (Budget-Friendly)
✔ GeeksforGeeks
One of the best free resources for DSA.
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Beginner to advanced topics
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Tons of coding practice
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Simple explanations
Great for: Self-learners and interview preparation.
✔ YouTube
Several creators provide high-quality DSA tutorials for free.
Top YouTube channels:
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CodeWithHarry
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Kunal Kushwaha
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Love Babbar
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CS Dojo
Perfect for visual learners who prefer quick explanations.
✔ Khan Academy
Ideal for absolute beginners.
Their algorithm lessons are easy to follow and focus on conceptual clarity.
3. Competitive Programming Websites (Practice-Oriented)
✔ LeetCode
Perfect for hands-on practice and interview preparation.
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Huge question bank
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Difficulty levels for beginners
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Detailed discussion forums
✔ HackerRank
Beginner-friendly platform with structured tracks for DSA.
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Sequential learning
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Certifications
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Easy UI
✔ CodeStudio (by Coding Ninjas)
Offers guided learning paths and curated DSA roadmaps.
4. Books (For Deep Understanding)
If you prefer reading to watching videos, these books are extremely useful:
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“Introduction to Algorithms” – Cormen (CLRS)
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“Data Structures and Algorithms Made Easy” – Narasimha Karumanchi
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“Grokking Algorithms” – Aditya Bhargava (great for beginners)
Books offer clarity and depth, which video tutorials may lack.
5. Structured Online Bootcamps (Mentorship-Based Learning)
✔ Coding Ninjas
Provides guided DSA courses in C++, Java, and Python.
✔ Scaler Academy
Great for learners preparing for a tech career, with personalized mentorship and industry projects.
✔ InterviewBit
Focused on interview-style DSA preparation with a step-by-step curriculum.
Which One Should You Choose?
Here’s a quick guide depending on your learning style:
| Learning Style | Best Platform |
|---|---|
| Visual learner | YouTube, Coursera |
| Need structured learning | Scaler, Coursera, Coding Ninjas |
| Budget-friendly | GeeksforGeeks, YouTube, HackerRank |
| Practice-oriented | LeetCode, InterviewBit |
| Prefer reading | Grokking Algorithms, CLRS |
Final Thoughts
Learning the basics of DSA does not require expensive resources. What matters most is consistency and practice. Start small—learn arrays, strings, stacks, queues, linked lists, and basic algorithms like recursion and sorting. Then gradually move toward advanced topics.
