+10 for this. I will elaborate further, hoping this gives you a good starting template.
- Programming: Learn two languages: Python and C
- Algorithms and Data Structures: Implement each data structure in the two languages above and implement a few algorithms of each type.
- Computer Architecture: For the referred excellent book, implement all assignments in any one language. Go head and burn the design on an FPGA, get the computer running on real hardware.
- OS: Having done ECS above, you should be in good shape to write your own OS: there is xv6, Xinu, Minix and many to choose from. Again have your OS running at least in a VM.
- Computer Networking: Write your own HTTP server in C.
- Math for CS: I would say focus on learning math essential for games, some linear algebra and leave it there. When you encounter a relevant field; AI or games, you should be in a position to pick up more math if required.
- Databases: Recently a book has been published on database internals, which is strongly recommended. Work through this book.
- Languages and Compilers: Learn a lisp, write a lisp interpreter (should introduce you to some FP concepts) and then working through Concepts, Techniques and Models of Computer Programming should be a good foundation.
Whether you are a student or working full time, these above are time consuming but well worth the ROI if you put in the effort. Be creative and ensure that you publish all your work as part of your portfolio. Good luck!!!
Thank you for your reply. It was very helpful. I will include your suggestions into my learning path.
I had difficulty implementing data structures in C, not in python. Python I was able to think in terms of classes and attributes. But I was finding it difficult to do the same in C since there is no concept of classes. I am still trying to learn pointers properly to have an understanding how to implement data structures and algorithms effectively.
I came across the book you have recommended and it is a very nice book. I would recommend that along with Designing Data Intensive Applications.
The book you refer to is really kind of system design for applications which handle large data volumes. OTOH, the book I refer to talks about how database software can be developed from ground up thus helping you understand the internals.
That book does cover many implemention details of a database. However, sometimes at a high level, and as you mention, specifically in the context of distributed systems.
Seconding this - I've used it to teach myself a few subjects so far (a couple of subsections of Operating Systems and I've started on Computer Architecture) and their suggested materials have been good.
The website actually recommends using SICP accompanied by Brian Harvey's CS61A lectures. Highly recommended and then read The Little Schemer to get a strong grasp on recursion.
