01 · Overview
Course overview
An advanced sequel to COMS W4995 focused on the harder half of ICPC and Codeforces Division 1: speed, rigor, and implementation under pressure.
- Instructors
- Josh Alman and Christian Yongwhan Lim
- Meeting
- Wednesdays, 8:10–10:00 PM
- Location
- 451 Computer Science Building
- Office hours
- By appointment
02 · Assessment
Assessment
There is no midterm or final exam. Performance is measured through consistent problem solving, live contest participation, one presentation, and attendance.
Complete 150 assigned problems, solve at least one problem in each of 10 qualifying live contests, and complete one satisfactory presentation.
03 · Expectations
Expectations
- Come prepared to reason aloud, test ideas, and learn from failed approaches.
- Submit your own work and be ready to explain any solution you claim.
- Use C++ unless another language is the clearest appropriate tool.
- Attend class consistently; three absences are allowed without penalty.
04 · Policies
Policies
Students are expected to follow Columbia’s academic integrity and accessibility policies. Documented exceptions may apply to attendance. Details marked tentative can change before or during the semester; CourseWorks is the operational source for enrolled students.
Email both instructors with your background in algorithms and competitive programming.
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