Key prerequisites for learning Data Structures and Algorithms (DSA) as a biology student include understanding variables, data types, conditional statements, loops, functions, arrays, basic error handling, etc.
Starting with Python is recommended for beginners due to its simple syntax and beginner-friendly nature. You can begin with basics like printing patterns, calculating factorial, checking prime numbers, and reversing strings or numbers.
Beginner resources to start programming include FreeCodeCamp Python Tutorial on YouTube, W3Schools Python, and CS50 by Harvard on edX, which is excellent for beginners even from non-CS backgrounds.
Once comfortable with programming, you can progress to learning DSA topics like arrays, strings, linked lists, stacks, queues, recursion, trees, graphs, and searching/sorting algorithms through platforms like GeeksforGeeks, LeetCode, and CodeStudio by Coding Ninjas.
The final tip emphasizes that coming from a biology background does not limit one's ability to learn coding or DSA. Success in this field is achievable with a step-by-step approach, consistency, and regular practice.