Should programmers train in ACM contests?

Question

Many of those coders who succeed in contests such as SRC TopCoder or Google Codejam, etc., get good jobs and salaries. But is it really necessary? I mean, should all code developers know different algorithms, structures, or are all these contests a waste of time? The problem is that these contests take a lot of time - to train, study, take part. I am a student, so I have little free time. So I have to make a decision: either I do it (in case it gives me tips that are useful in the future), or I just forget about it and study something else. Any ideas?

Answer 1

I think you need to think about what you want from your career 1, and then see what you need to do to get there. If after that you have evidence that success in these contests leads to good work / salary in the area you are interested in, then I think that you have your answer.

Answer 2

Knowing and understanding a number of different algorithms, design patterns, languages ​​and equipment features gives you great flexibility when it comes to finding a job. As such, I believe that these competitions are a great way to learn (as a participant or observer) some new skills and increase the level of recruitment.

Answer 3

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Btw, if you want to explore the euler project , this is a great place to start. It’s good that you can see other people’s solution so that you learn much faster than in ACM. Jam code also has this option, but there aren't many problems there.