After solving 500+ problems on Codeforces and 1000+ across all platforms, I’ve finally reached Pupil. It took me 37 contests to achieve this milestone.

To be honest, I’ve often seen people reach this milestone much faster. sometimes after solving just a handful of problems. That used to push me into self-doubt: Am I learning CP the wrong way? Is my practice approach flawed?

But I’ve realized that everyone’s journey is different. For me, consistency and patience mattered more than speed.

Now, I’m planning to take a short break from contests to strengthen my fundamentals and learn some new concepts that will hopefully help me climb to Specialist.

If you’ve been through this stage, I’d love to hear your guidance or tips on how to prepare better for the next step.