Is it me, or are challenges more like math competitions instead of contests of knowledge?

Question

What I'm referring to is the kind of challenges that ask something along the lines of "What is the result of y in: { x = (2,3); y = 3 + x * 3 - 7; x = y += y++ * ++y; }?"

In my eyes, these pertain much more to math and quick thinking than learning something new about a language. Sometimes I just can't keep up with the pace of the timer, and I learn nothing new. And these things are usually so irrelevant (like using x = y = thisStatement) that I would be slapped if I ever used them in a realistic environment. It's like teaching students Calculus by giving them a one-minute multiplication table to fill out. I would much rather see something like:

"When you inherit a class virtually, how many instances of that object is made?"

Or:

"Complete the code below to make the Foo function template specialized to type integer."

With these questions, even if I don't know them, at least I can become curious and start learning something of value.

So, is it just me?

Answer 1

you are correct upto some extent... even I am having the same feeling but other might like what is available now and don't appreciate harder level questions when new to course. unfortunately , challenges don't update when we move to level up. again it depends on your competitors course level also. anyway u can always share your views to sololearn email id and they might come up with update

Answer 2

Loll. The reason is because computer science is actually discrete mathematics. That is: The machine you call computer is just a math machine; that's why you hear terms like: Computation, algorithm, Processing. A computer is just an advanced calculator with special hardware feature.

In fact the higher up you go: the more mathematics you require: for think of things like encryption: Well it's basically application of number theory. maps is graph theory, search is functions and topology, machine learning is calculus and linear algebra.

Basically a computer is math made physical. And then, you don't need be scared of the math, for you just need to start where all beginners start: DISCRETE MATHEMATICS (with proofs tho!)

Answer 3

Those questions are mainly hard-line pure mathematics questions to test your understanding of hoare triples: their execution and determination
That is: In mathematical logic that particular statement is called a hoare triple. And it is used as an assignment.

If you began studying math more - it'll quickly begin making sense. In fact that's what I'm doing