Do Leetcode or Build Projects?

Building projects vs. Leetcode: The Actual Path to Your Dream Goal

Halim Shams
4 min readSep 25, 2023
An Article by — Halim Shams

Embarking on a career in software development can be both exhilarating and challenging. In this article, we’ll explore the age-old question: should you focus on building projects or dedicate your time to Leetcode? Join me as we uncover the transformative potential of projects, the benefits of leaking code, and the essential strategies for breaking into the software development industry.

Discover how projects and open source contributions can shape your resume, the importance of incorporating algorithms, and the role of Leetcode in the recruitment process.

Get ready to unlock the secrets of software development success!

Building Projects: The Gateway to Experience and Knowledge

  1. Gaining valuable experience through projects: Building projects provides an invaluable opportunity to apply your skills in a real-world context, enriching your experience and expertise.
  2. Leaking code as a path to mastery: After completing projects, leaking code allows you to showcase your problem-solving abilities and dive deeper into the realm of system design. It’s a chance to optimize your solutions and elevate your understanding of scalable and efficient software architecture.
  3. Breaking into software development: Starting a career in software development can feel like shouting into a void, but fear not! Building projects and gaining hands-on experience can differentiate you from the competition and increase your chances of success.
  4. Projects as a vessel for knowledge and resume enhancement: Projects not only fill your resume with relevant content but also provide a platform for acquiring in-depth knowledge. Remember, your projects don’t have to be completely original; they can be clones of popular websites or games. Aim to have at least three unit-tested projects that are accessible to anyone, whether it’s a web app on AWS or Vercel or a mobile app on the Android App Store.

Leetcode: Your Gateway to MAANG

  1. Incorporating algorithms into projects: While projects are essential, algorithms play a vital role too. Integrating algorithms into your projects showcases your problem-solving talent and demonstrates your ability to write efficient and optimized code. It’s a powerful combination that sets you apart.
  2. Leetcode as a fundamental tool: Leetcode is widely used by top companies as a filtering mechanism for candidates. It tests your core understanding of computer science, problem-solving skills, and ability to think analytically; doing Leetcode will get you that masterpiece. Embrace the journey of grinding Leetcode efficiently and explore the wealth of free resources available online, such as the highly recommended NeetCode 150 and Blind 75.

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Navigating the Recruitment Process: The Winner

  1. Diverse assessment methods: While Leetcode is crucial, it’s important to note that in some countries, recruiters may not focus solely on Leetcode-style questions. They may assign take-home assignments or inquire about your experience with specific frameworks or technologies. In such cases, your projects become a clear advantage, showcasing your practical skills and ability to deliver tangible results.
  2. Leetcoding: Leetcode remains a cornerstone in the recruitment process, allowing companies to assess your technical abilities and problem-solving aptitude. It’s essential to be well-prepared and embrace Leetcode as a fundamental component of computer science.

Conclusion

In your journey towards software development excellence, projects and Leetcode go hand in hand. Building projects not only provides invaluable experience but also serves as a launching pad for showcasing your skills and knowledge. Leaking code from your projects and integrating algorithms further elevates your abilities. Remember, projects and work experience open the door for you, but Leetcode often gets you through it.

Leetcoding is tough, and sometimes you’ll give up on it, but remember one thing:

it’s the hammering that turns a rubbish piece of iron to an unbeatable sword.

Embrace adversity; reject prosperity.

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Halim Shams

I Write about Programming and All the Related Content 🚀 I'm a Self-Taught Full-Stack Developer 💛