How to Start LeetCode as a Complete Beginner (Step-by-Step Guide)

LeetCode can feel overwhelming when you first start. Thousands of problems, confusing topics, and no clear path forward.

This guide is for complete beginners—people who have never solved a LeetCode problem or who are returning after a long break.

TL;DR: Getting Started Checklist

1. ✅ Set up your account (pick a language)
2. ✅ Learn basic data structures first
3. ✅ Start with Easy problems (50+)
4. ✅ Follow a structured list (NeetCode 75)
5. ✅ Don't memorize—understand patterns
6. ✅ Practice consistently (1 hour/day)

Step 1: Prerequisites

Before LeetCode, you need:

Basic Programming

• Variables, loops, conditionals
• Functions
• Arrays/lists
• Basic string operations

Basic Data Structures Knowledge

• Arrays
• Hash Maps/Dictionaries
• Linked Lists (basic understanding)

Don't have these yet? Start with:

• Python: Python.org tutorial
• JavaScript: freeCodeCamp
• Java: Oracle's Java tutorials

Step 2: Choose Your Language

Best languages for LeetCode:

My recommendation: Python for beginners. It's the most readable and lets you focus on the algorithm, not syntax.

Step 3: Your First Week

Day 1-2: Explore the Platform

1. Create a free LeetCode account
2. Go to Problems → Filter by Easy
3. Solve "Two Sum" (Problem #1)

Two Sum is special: It's the most solved problem for a reason—it introduces hashing, a critical pattern.

Day 3-7: Easy Problems

Solve these 10 problems in order:

Step 4: How to Approach Each Problem

The 30-Minute Rule

1. Read carefully (2 min) — Understand the problem
2. Work through examples (3 min) — Trace inputs/outputs by hand
3. Think of approach (5 min) — What data structure? What pattern?
4. Write code (15 min) — Don't aim for perfect first try
5. Test and debug (5 min) — Fix edge cases

If You're Stuck After 30 Minutes:

1. Look at hints (if available)
2. Read the first few lines of the discussion
3. Watch a NeetCode video explanation
4. Use LeetCopilot for contextual hints

Don't feel bad about looking at solutions! The goal is learning, not proving you're smart.

Step 5: Learn the Core Data Structures

Priority Order:

Step 6: Follow a Structured List

Don't solve random problems. Follow a curated list:

Best Lists for Beginners:

My recommendation: Start with NeetCode 75—it has free video explanations for every problem.

Step 7: Building a Practice Routine

Daily Schedule (1 hour):

Weekly Goals:

Step 8: When to Move to Medium

Move to Medium problems when you can:

• ✅ Solve most Easy problems in 15-20 minutes
• ✅ Recognize patterns (Two Pointers, Hash Map, etc.)
• ✅ Write bug-free code on first try (mostly)

Typical timeline: 3-4 weeks of consistent practice

Common Beginner Mistakes

Resources for Beginners

Free:

• NeetCode YouTube — Video explanations
• LeetCode Explore — Free learning cards
• Tech Interview Handbook — Free guide

Paid (optional):

• AlgoMonster — Pattern-based course
• LeetCode Premium — Company tags

AI Assistance:

• LeetCopilot — Get hints when stuck without spoiling the solution

FAQ

I have no CS degree. Can I still do LeetCode?
Absolutely! Many self-taught developers have aced coding interviews.

How many problems should I solve?
Quality over quantity. 50-75 well-understood problems is a great start.

Should I use LeetCode Premium?
Not necessary for beginners. The free tier has plenty.

How long until I'm interview-ready?
With consistent practice: 3-6 months for most people.

What if I can't solve anything?
Start with easier problems. Everyone struggles at first—it's normal.

Week 1 Action Plan

Conclusion

Starting LeetCode is simpler than it seems:

1. Choose Python (or your preferred language)
2. Follow NeetCode 75 (structured list)
3. Practice daily (1 hour is enough)
4. Understand patterns (don't memorize)
5. Use hints when stuck (LeetCopilot)

Everyone starts at zero. The key is consistency—one problem a day adds up to 365 problems a year.

Good luck on your journey!