Hi, few days ago I barely hit Expert on Codeforces, I would like to know the best strategy to stick in the Expert zone, and also the practice strategy to become Candidate Master. I usually solve Problems A,B and C. I sometimes do D and E outside of contest. Usually, their ideas don't strike me, but when they do, there's very little time left in the contest. How to reduce that time of striking ideas ?
Also, what should be the best strategy for upsolving the Google Code Jam problems ?
You can start doing ladders on A2OJ.com as per your choice (preferably 1700-1800), then switch to the later ones. This will help you to solve ABC early so that you have enough time to solve D during the contest.
Huge plus, ladders are great, and they also boost your confidence. Definitely a way to go :)
are A2OJ ladders reliable? How much did you use them on your way to candidate master? Enigma27
Ladders are just an ordered collection of CF problems so that you don't waste all of your time in solving too easy problems and too tough problems as relative to your current level. Beside of contests and Upsolving, I practiced only ladder's questions on CF.
I am also planning to join 1900 - 2000 ladder in my summer vacation, so if you wanna join we can solve and discuss it:)
When you are gonna start, when your summer vacations start? I want to join you, and discuss the problems, if you want!
me too.
How to know which ladder is good for me, is it directly related codeforces rating or should I join a ladder more than my codeforces rating.
You can start to solve any ladder, but the tasks in them are chosen precisely so that you can solve problems on the contests and stay on the rating shown in the name of the ladder. I would recommend solving ladders just above your rating.
Hey! I am also interested in joining you in problem solving. What do you say we can create a google group where anyone can join and discuss problems?
add me also
https://mirror.codeforces.com/profile/madhav_thakker your real account;
13 months and still struggling between blue and cyan.
Don't worry. You'll be there. Just have patience.
The easiest way to increase rating is by not worrying about rating at all. Just enjoy problem solving.
Practice more, do more virtual contests and complain less
Codeforces also have a rating system for problems.
then, Why there is a need to go A2OJ.