🚀 DSA with C – Day 2: Arrays & Linear Search

 

🎯 Goal:

• Understand arrays in C.

• Learn how to use loops with arrays.

• Implement Linear Search algorithm.

• Practice multiple array-based programs.

---

🧠 Theory: What is an Array?

• An array is a collection of elements stored in contiguous memory.

• All elements must be of the same type.

• Indexing starts from 0 in C.

🔧 Declaration and Initialization

int arr[5];             // Declaration
int arr[5] = {1, 2, 3, 4, 5};  // Initialization

---

👨‍💻 Basic Program: Input & Output in Arrays

#include <stdio.h>

int main() {
    int arr[5];
    printf("Enter 5 numbers:\n");
    for (int i = 0; i < 5; i++) {
        scanf("%d", &arr[i]);
    }

    printf("You entered:\n");
    for (int i = 0; i < 5; i++) {
        printf("%d ", arr[i]);
    }
    return 0;
}

---

🔍 Linear Search in C

➕ Problem: Given an array and a number x, find if x exists in the array.

✅ Code:

#include <stdio.h>

int main() {
    int arr[100], n, x, found = 0;
    printf("Enter number of elements: ");
    scanf("%d", &n);

    printf("Enter %d elements:\n", n);
    for (int i = 0; i < n; i++)
        scanf("%d", &arr[i]);

    printf("Enter element to search: ");
    scanf("%d", &x);

    for (int i = 0; i < n; i++) {
        if (arr[i] == x) {
            printf("Element found at index %d\n", i);
            found = 1;
            break;
        }
    }

    if (!found)
        printf("Element not found\n");

    return 0;
}

🧠 Time Complexity:

• Best case: O(1)

• Worst case: O(n)

---

🧪 Practice Problems:

1. Find the maximum and minimum element in an array.

2. Count how many times a given number appears in the array.

3. Reverse an array.

---

📘 Homework for Day 2:

• Write a program to copy one array to another.

• Write a program to merge two arrays.

• Try solving one problem from LeetCode Easy using arrays (optional but forward-thinking!).

---

📅 Day 2 Summary

• ✅ Learned arrays

• ✅ Implemented Linear Search

• ✅ Practiced I/O and traversal

---

🧭 Tomorrow: Sorting (Bubble Sort) + Binary Search

Would you like me to create a GitHub repo or planner to track your DSA progress daily?

📝 Day 3 Blog Post: "How to Apply to Universities in Singapore – Step-by-Step Guide for 2025"

 

📝 Day 3 Blog Post: "How to Apply to Universities in Singapore – Step-by-Step Guide for 2025"

🧠 Category: Education > Application & Visa Process

📆 Posting Date: Day 3

🔑 SEO Keywords:

• how to apply to university in Singapore

• Singapore university admission 2025

• study in Singapore for international students

• NUS/NTU application guide

---

✅ Title Tag (SEO):

How to Apply to Universities in Singapore (NUS, NTU, SMU) – 2025 Guide

📌 URL:

/apply-singapore-universities-2025

---

✍️ Introduction:

Singapore is known for its world-class universities, multicultural campus life, and global career opportunities. Whether you're applying to NUS, NTU, SMU, or a polytechnic, this blog will walk you through the step-by-step admission process to study in Singapore in 2025.

---

🧾 Step-by-Step University Application Guide

---

📍 Step 1: Choose Your Institution & Course

Make a shortlist based on:

• Program reputation (e.g., NUS for CS, NTU for Engineering)

• Career goals

• Budget and scholarship availability

🔗 Tip: Visit official sites like www.nus.edu.sg, www.ntu.edu.sg

---

📍 Step 2: Check Eligibility Requirements

Undergraduate:

• GCE A-Levels / IB Diploma / Class 12 Boards (India, Malaysia, etc.)

• English proficiency: IELTS (6.5+) / TOEFL (90+)

Postgraduate:

• Bachelor's degree with GPA ≥ 3.0/4.0

• GRE/GMAT (for MBA, Engineering, etc.)

• Research proposal (if applying for PhD)

✅ Documents you’ll typically need:

• Passport-size photo

• Academic transcripts

• Personal Statement or SOP

• Recommendation letters

• Resume/CV

• Portfolio (for Design/Architecture)

---

📍 Step 3: Submit Online Application

Most applications open between October–April (depending on the university).

University	Application Portal	Typical Deadline
NUS	applications.nus.edu.sg	Jan–Mar 2025
NTU	admissions.ntu.edu.sg	Jan–Mar 2025
SMU	admissions.smu.edu.sg	Mar–May 2025

💡 Tip: Apply early for better chances and scholarship consideration.

---

📍 Step 4: Pay the Application Fee

• Ranges between SGD 20–50

• Use credit/debit card through the application portal

---

📍 Step 5: Attend Interview (if required)

• Some courses (e.g., Medicine, Architecture, MBA) may require:

  • Online interviews

  • Admission tests

  • Portfolio review

---

📍 Step 6: Wait for Offer Letter

If accepted, you’ll receive an IPA (In-Principle Approval) letter, which is required for your Student Pass application.

⏳ Decision Time: Usually 6–10 weeks after application closes.

---

📍 Step 7: Apply for Student Pass via ICA

Use the SOLAR+ system:

1. Your university registers you on SOLAR

2. You receive a unique registration number

3. Log in at ICA SOLAR Portal

4. Submit required documents and pay the fee (~SGD 30–60)

5. Book an appointment for issuance upon arrival

---

🧑‍💻 Optional: Apply for MOE Tuition Grant

If you're not a citizen or PR:

• Apply for the Ministry of Education Tuition Grant

• Sign a bond (work in Singapore for 3 years post-study)

---

📦 Final Checklist Before Moving to Singapore

• Book accommodation

• Buy travel insurance

• Open a local bank account (DBS, OCBC, etc.)

• Register for orientation and course modules

---

❓ FAQs: University Applications in Singapore

Q: Can I apply to multiple universities at once?
✅ Yes, but each has a separate portal and application fee.

Q: Is IELTS mandatory?
✅ Only for students whose previous education was not in English.

Q: What if I miss the application deadline?
✅ Some universities offer rolling admissions or mid-year intakes — check their official calendars.

---

🎓 Conclusion:

Singapore’s education system is competitive but accessible with the right planning. By following this step-by-step guide, you’re already on track to study in one of Asia’s top university destinations.

---

👉 Up Next (Day 4):

"Top Scholarships to Study in Singapore for International Students – 2025 List"

📝 Day 2 Blog Post: "NUS vs NTU: Which University Should You Choose?"

---

✅ Title:

NUS vs NTU: Which Top Singapore University Is Right for You in 2025?

---

✍️ Introduction:

Singapore is home to two world-renowned universities — National University of Singapore (NUS) and Nanyang Technological University (NTU). Both are globally ranked, highly respected, and offer state-of-the-art facilities. So, how do you choose between them?

Let’s break it down and compare NUS and NTU across key factors like ranking, programs, campus life, and career opportunities.

---

🏆 1. Global Rankings

Criteria	NUS	NTU
QS World Ranking 2025	#8 globally	#26 globally
Asia Ranking	#1 in Asia	#5 in Asia

✅ Conclusion: NUS leads globally and regionally, especially in research and science.

---

📚 2. Programs & Strengths

• NUS Strengths: Computer Science, Business, Law, Life Sciences, Medicine.

• NTU Strengths: Engineering, Communication Studies, Education, Environmental Sciences.

✅ Conclusion: NUS is broader with strong interdisciplinary programs. NTU is known for engineering and media.

---

🏫 3. Campus Life & Location

• NUS: Located in Kent Ridge (west), with multiple residential colleges and a city-like vibe.

• NTU: Located in Jurong West, with a green, futuristic campus and eco-friendly architecture.

✅ Conclusion: NTU’s campus is more self-contained and modern. NUS has more urban proximity.

---

👩‍🎓 4. Student Culture

• NUS: Academically rigorous, more research-intensive.

• NTU: Innovation-focused, vibrant student activities and clubs.

✅ Conclusion: NUS leans academic; NTU leans creative and entrepreneurial.

---

💼 5. Graduate Employability

• NUS Graduates: High placement rate, especially in consulting, finance, and tech.

• NTU Graduates: Excellent outcomes in engineering, media, and startups.

✅ Conclusion: Both offer strong employability. NUS edges out slightly for international recognition.

---

💰 6. Tuition & Scholarships

• Tuition fees for most undergraduate courses range from SGD 8,000 – SGD 30,000/year (with MOE Grant).

• Scholarships available at both, including:

  • NUS Global Merit Scholarship

  • NTU Nanyang Scholarship

✅ Conclusion: Similar tuition structures. Both offer generous merit-based support.

---

🧑‍🎓 7. Admission Difficulty

• NUS: Slightly more competitive, especially for Medicine, Law, and CS.

• NTU: Highly competitive too, but more diverse program accessibility.

✅ Conclusion: NUS has stricter entry requirements in top programs.

---

🧾 Final Verdict: NUS or NTU?

You Should Choose...	If You Want...
NUS	Research-heavy environment, broader courses, global recognition
NTU	Tech-forward campus, strong engineering/media focus, innovation

💡 Closing Tip:

Instead of only looking at rankings, explore curriculum fit, campus culture, and career pathways. Visit virtual open houses or connect with current students to help you decide.

---

📢 Up Next (Day 3):

"How to Apply to Universities in Singapore – Step-by-Step Guide for 2025"

📝 Day 1 Blog Post: "Top 10 Courses to Study in Singapore in 2025

 

✍️ Introduction:

Singapore has established itself as one of the top education hubs in Asia, offering globally recognized degrees, cutting-edge facilities, and strong industry ties. Whether you're a local student planning your next step or an international student exploring global opportunities, choosing the right course is crucial.

Here are the top 10 most in-demand and career-focused courses in Singapore for 2025.

---

🎓 1. Computer Science & IT

• Why it’s popular: Singapore is a digital powerhouse, leading Southeast Asia’s tech growth.

• Career Options: Software Engineer, Data Scientist, Cybersecurity Analyst.

• Top Institutions: NUS, NTU, SMU, SIT.

---

⚙️ 2. Engineering

• Specializations: Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, Aerospace.

• Why it’s popular: Infrastructure, sustainability, and smart nation goals.

• Top Institutions: NTU, SUTD, SIT, NUS.

---

🧬 3. Life Sciences & Biotechnology

• Why it’s popular: Backed by Singapore’s biomedical research ecosystem.

• Career Options: Biotech Researcher, Lab Analyst, Environmental Consultant.

• Top Institutions: NUS, Duke-NUS, Yale-NUS.

---

📈 4. Business & Management

• Specializations: Finance, Marketing, International Business, HR.

• Why it’s popular: Singapore is a global financial center.

• Top Institutions: NUS Business School, NTU NBS, SMU, INSEAD.

---

🧑‍🎨 5. Design & Creative Arts

• Specializations: Fashion, Animation, Game Design, Visual Communication.

• Why it’s popular: The media and design sectors are booming with digital demand.

• Top Institutions: LASALLE, NAFA, Raffles Design Institute.

---

🏨 6. Hospitality & Hotel Management

• Why it’s popular: Singapore's vibrant tourism and event economy.

• Career Options: Hotel Manager, Travel Coordinator, F&B Operations.

• Top Institutions: SHATEC, MDIS, EASB.

---

🏥 7. Medicine & Nursing

• Why it’s popular: Aging population and strong healthcare system.

• Career Options: Doctor, Nurse, Pharmacist, Public Health Officer.

• Top Institutions: NUS Yong Loo Lin, Duke-NUS, Parkway College.

---

🏛️ 8. Architecture & Urban Planning

• Why it’s popular: Singapore is a global model for urban sustainability.

• Top Institutions: NUS, SUTD, BCA Academy.

---

✈️ 9. Travel, Aviation & Tourism

• Why it’s popular: Singapore Changi Airport and tourism are world-class.

• Top Institutions: Republic Polytechnic, MDIS, Kaplan.

---

📊 10. Data Science & Artificial Intelligence

• Why it’s popular: AI is driving innovation across all sectors.

• Career Options: Machine Learning Engineer, AI Developer, Data Strategist.

• Top Institutions: NUS, NTU, SMU.

---

💡 Conclusion:

Choosing a course is more than just following trends — it's about aligning your passion with future-ready skills. Singapore’s strong economy and globally ranked institutions make it a top destination for students with big dreams.

Next Up (Day 2): "NUS vs NTU: Which University Should You Choose?"

🚀 DSA with C – Day 1: Introduction & Setup

 

🚀 DSA with C – Day 1: Introduction & Setup

🎯 Goal:

• Understand what DSA is.

• Set up your C environment.

• Write your first C program.

• Learn about time & space complexity (theory).

• Practice basic input/output and loops.

---

🧠 Theory: What is DSA?

• Data Structures = Ways to organize and store data efficiently.

• Algorithms = Step-by-step instructions to solve problems.

• Why DSA matters: Faster apps, better problem-solving, cracking tech interviews.

---

🔧 Setup for C Programming

• Install a C compiler:

  • Windows: Use Code::Blocks or install MinGW and use VS Code.

  • Mac/Linux: Already comes with gcc. Use VS Code or terminal.

• Create your first .c file.

---

👨‍💻 Hello World Program

#include <stdio.h>

int main() {
    printf("Hello, World!\n");
    return 0;
}

Compile using:

gcc hello.c -o hello
./hello

---

📚 Time & Space Complexity (Intro)

• Big O Notation (O(n), O(1), etc.)

• Example:

  • Loop runs n times → O(n)

  • Constant statement → O(1)

Watch a quick 10 min video or read short notes on Big O notation.

---

🧪 Practice: Basic C I/O and Loops

Tasks:

1. Take input of two numbers and print their sum.

2. Print numbers from 1 to n using a for loop.

3. Write a program to find if a number is even or odd.

Example:

#include <stdio.h>

int main() {
    int a, b;
    printf("Enter two numbers: ");
    scanf("%d %d", &a, &b);
    printf("Sum = %d\n", a + b);
    return 0;
}

---

📅 Day 1 Summary

• ✅ Installed C

• ✅ Understood what DSA is

• ✅ Learned about time/space complexity

• ✅ Practiced basic C programs

---

📘 Homework for Day 1:

• Write a program to find the factorial of a number.

• Write a program to print a multiplication table.

---

🌟 Tomorrow: Arrays in C + Linear Search

Day 2 Java Arrays

✅ Day 2: Arrays – Traversals, Operations & Basic Problems

🎯 Goals of the Day

• Understand 1D array declaration and initialization in Java

• Learn array traversal techniques

• Solve beginner-level problems on arrays

---

📘 1. Arrays in Java – The Basics

An array is a collection of elements of the same type stored in contiguous memory.

🔹 Declaration:

int[] arr = new int[5];           // creates an array of size 5
int[] nums = {1, 2, 3, 4, 5};     // directly initialized

🔹 Access:

System.out.println(arr[0]);       // prints the first element
arr[2] = 10;                      // sets the third element to 10

---

🔁 2. Traversal of Arrays

🔹 Using For Loop:

for (int i = 0; i < arr.length; i++) {
    System.out.println(arr[i]);
}

🔹 Using Enhanced For Loop:

for (int num : arr) {
    System.out.println(num);
}

---

✍️ 3. Input in Arrays

Scanner sc = new Scanner(System.in);
int n = sc.nextInt();
int[] arr = new int[n];

for (int i = 0; i < n; i++) {
    arr[i] = sc.nextInt();
}

---

🔎 4. Basic Problems to Practice

🧠 Problem 1: Find the maximum element in an array

int max = arr[0];
for (int i = 1; i < arr.length; i++) {
    if (arr[i] > max) max = arr[i];
}
System.out.println("Max: " + max);

🧠 Problem 2: Reverse the array

int start = 0, end = arr.length - 1;
while (start < end) {
    int temp = arr[start];
    arr[start] = arr[end];
    arr[end] = temp;
    start++;
    end--;
}

🧠 Problem 3: Sum of all elements

int sum = 0;
for (int num : arr) {
    sum += num;
}
System.out.println("Sum = " + sum);

🧠 Problem 4: Check if array is sorted

boolean isSorted = true;
for (int i = 0; i < arr.length - 1; i++) {
    if (arr[i] > arr[i + 1]) {
        isSorted = false;
        break;
    }
}
System.out.println(isSorted ? "Sorted" : "Not Sorted");

---

📚 5. Practice Questions for Today

Try solving these on any coding platform:

• Find the second largest element in an array

• Count frequency of an element in an array

• Left rotate an array by 1 position

• Move all 0s to the end of the array (maintaining order)

---

🔥 Bonus Tip:

Create reusable methods in Java to solve problems:

public static int findMax(int[] arr) {
    int max = arr[0];
    for (int i = 1; i < arr.length; i++) {
        if (arr[i] > max) max = arr[i];
    }
    return max;
}

Day -1 JAVA DSA INTRO

 

🎯 Goals of the Day

• Understand why Java is a great choice for DSA

• Set up your development environment

• Learn Java basics required for DSA

• Write your first Java program

  📘 1. Why Choose Java for DSA?

  • Object-Oriented: Easier to model real-world problems

  • Rich Standard Library: Collections like ArrayList, HashMap, etc.

  • Strong Typing & Readability: Prevents bugs and improves clarity

  • Platform Independent: Write once, run anywhere (thanks to JVM)

  • Used in Competitions & Interviews

    🧰 2. Java Setup

    Install:

    • JDK (Java Development Kit) – Download JDK 17+

    • IDE (Optional):

      • VS Code (with Java Extension Pack)

      • IntelliJ IDEA (recommended)

      • Eclipse

        Check Installation:

        bash
        java -version
        javac -version
        

        ---

        🧠 3. Java Basics You Need for DSA

        Focus only on these essentials first:

        🔹 Data Types & Variables:

        
        int, long, float, double, boolean, char, String
        

        🔹 Conditionals:

        
        
        if, else if, else, switch
        

        🔹 Loops:

        
        
        for, while, do-while
        

        🔹 Arrays & ArrayLists:

        
        int[] arr = new int[5];
        ArrayList<Integer> list = new ArrayList<>();
        

        🔹 Functions (Methods):

        
        
        public static int sum(int a, int b) {
            return a + b;
        }
        

        ---

        ✏️ 4. Your First Java Program

        
        public class Main {
            public static void main(String[] args) {
                System.out.println("Welcome to Java DSA!");
            }
        }
        

        ✅ Compile & run:

        bash
        
        javac Main.java
        java Main
        

        ---

        📚 5. What to Prepare for Day 1

        Tomorrow you’ll dive into Arrays: declaration, traversal, searching, and simple problems like max/min, sum, etc.

        Before that:

        • Revise basic Java syntax

        • Explore Scanner for input handling

        
        Scanner sc = new Scanner(System.in);
        int n = sc.nextInt();
        

        ---

        🔥 Pro Tip:

        Start practicing small coding questions on platforms like:

        • LeetCode

        • CodeStudio

        • HackerRank

        • GeeksforGeeks