Question

I'm having alot of trouble with HW 1. I haven't been able to write the code without looking at the solutions. I've spent about 8 hours on the problem set. Is this normal or should I start with an easier course somewhere else. I understand the concepts, but am having difficulty putting the concepts into practice

Answer 1

Generally, what should happen is that if you look at one example, you should be able to do most questions with a similar structure. But it looks like you're having difficulties with that. In which case, I would suggest you take an easier course.

What language is being taught?

Answer 2

Maybe spend some time with: http://www.greenteapress.com/thinkpython/html/index.html
Be sure to try all the examples that are shown.
Play around, in the shell, with the topics/ideas that are presented.
The Tutorial in the Python documentation is also pretty good.

Answer 3

i'll have a look at the greenteapress site. thanks

Answer 4

CanadianAsian, I appreciate the response, but if you are not aware of which language is being taught, should you be offering advice? And no the structure of the different questions is not really that similar.

Answer 5

gabbro, it really helps to view the lecture recitations before starting homework and make sure to literally type and follow along with the TA. So, first round: watch recitation at regular speed, then take a day off and download the video. (second time around: watch the video at, say 1.5 x the original speed or more)[this should help you memorize and understand commands and concepts better, so that you do not have to look at the solutions every time]. Finally, attempt the homework and let us know if that worked for you.

Answer 6

e.g. recitation 2
http://ocw.mit.edu/courses/electrical-engineering-and-computer-science/6-00sc-introduction-to-computer-science-and-programming-spring-2011/unit-1/lecture-4-machine-interpretation-of-a-program/