Admission requirements
Recommended prior knowledge
Extensive knowledge and a keen interest in algorithms, data structures, and programming in C++ are highly recommended.
Registration with the lecturer is required given student capacity constraints (see below).
Description
This course is intended for highly motivated students with a keen interest in algorithm development and programming in C++.
Knowledge of algorithms, data structures, and programming in C++ are a prerequisite.
The topic of competitive programming deals with the finer bits of programming that come to light when programming is done in a competitive context.
Aiming to fully optimize both time and memory usage, a combination of cleverly designed data structures and efficient routines can lead to the very best solution of a particular precisely defined problem.
Building on basic knowledge of elementary datastructures, sorting and search algorithms, we dive into the finer algorithmic aspects of graphs, trees, paths, circuits and flows and cover topics such as number theory , combinatorics, geometry and string algorithms.
All of this with the aim of building a set of knowledge and skills that will ultimately allow us to, in a competitive environment, solve a problem as efficiently and quickly as possible.
Course objectives
Learn how to quickly assess which algorithm is suitable for solving which type of problem;
Understand how to optimize, improve and streamline an algorithm in order to maximize its computational efficiency;
Be able to understand a complex solution to a problem, and explain its workings to others;
Learn how to work together in a small team to tackle a set of problems in as little time as possible;
Have the basic knowledge and skills to successfully participate in a programming contest.
Timetable
The most recent timetable can be found at the Computer Science (MSc) student website.
Mode of instruction
Lectures, lab sessions, assignments, contests and student presentations.
Total hours of study: 168 hrs. (= 6 EC)
Lectures: 28:00 hrs.
Assignments: 56:00 hrs.
Project (presenation, programming, paper): 84:00 hrs.
Assessment method
A presentation and short report on a paper (35%)
One individual assignment (20%)
Three evaluated rounds of programming contests (45%)
The teacher will inform the students how the inspection of and follow-up discussion of the exams will take place.
Reading list
- Literature will be distributed during the course.
Registration
You have to sign up for courses and exams (including retakes) in uSis. Check this link for information about how to register for courses.
This course has a maximum capacity of 15 students. Therefore, students should register for this course before January 5 by sending an e-mail to the lecturer. If more than 15 students apply, students will be informed of this by the lecturer and asked to provide a short statement on their background knowledge by January 12. Based on this, the lecturer will select 15 students to participate in the course by January 15.
Contact
Lecturer: dr. F.W. Takes
Course website: Competitive Programming
Remarks
None.