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Welcome to BD Unit 6 Sprint 24 - ACS

Course Overview

In this unit, you will gain a deeper knowledge of Java programming, data structures, algorithms, and problem-solving skills while receiving feedback on your career artifacts. The course is designed to prepare you for both technical interviews and professional development as a Java developer.

Sprint Objectives

By the end of this sprint, you will be able to:

  • Implement and analyze complex data structures in Java
  • Pass the General Coding Assessment (GCA) with a score of 295 or higher
  • Develop your career artifacts to professional standards
  • Prepare effectively for technical interviews

Technical Skills

  • Java Data Structures
  • Algorithm Implementation
  • Object-Oriented Design
  • Code Optimization
  • Problem-Solving Techniques
  • Time & Space Complexity Analysis

Career Development

  • Java Portfolio Projects
  • Technical Interview Prep
  • Career Artifact Review
  • Professional Networking
  • GitHub Portfolio Enhancement
  • Resume and LinkedIn Optimization

GCA Overview

The General Coding Assessment (GCA) is a crucial component of this course. It evaluates your programming skills in a standardized format recognized by employers.

GCA Format

  • 4 programming problems
  • 120-minute time limit
  • Language-agnostic (Java recommended)
  • Focus on algorithms and data structures
  • Target score: 295 or higher
Learn More About GCA

Preparation Strategy

  • Complete all module exercises
  • Take multiple practice tests
  • Review data structures fundamentals
  • Practice time management
  • Study solution patterns
Practice GCA Test

Technical Preparation

Learning Path

  • Watch Core Competency videos
  • Complete Guided Java Projects
  • Practice module activities
  • Participate in code-along sessions
  • Review data structure implementations

Assessment Path

  • Complete Practice GCA test
  • Take official GCA (min score: 295)
  • Complete Understanding Check
  • Submit all coding assignments
  • Review feedback and improve

Career Preparation

1

Review Career Artifacts

Ensure all your career artifacts are complete and up-to-date

Career Artifacts Checklist →
2

Watch Core Competency Videos

Complete all required video content for career development

Access Career Coaching →
3

Submit Materials

Submit your career artifacts for review and feedback

Submission Process →
4

Attend Get It Done Sessions

Join live sessions to receive guidance and feedback on your career artifacts

Schedule a Session →

Module 1: Linked Lists, Stacks and Queues, Recursion

Master fundamental Java data structures and algorithms including linked lists, stacks, queues, and recursion concepts.

• Linked Lists II • Stacks and Queues • Introduction to Recursion • Practice: Linked Lists, Stacks, Queues & Recursion

Module 2: Searching, Sorting

Learn and implement essential searching and sorting algorithms in Java, optimizing for performance.

• Sorting I • Sorting II • Searching • Practice: Sorting and Hash Tables

Module 3: Binary Trees, Hash Tables

Master advanced data structures with binary trees and hash tables, implementing Java solutions for complex problems.

• Binary Trees I • Binary Trees II • Hash Tables II • Practice: Binary Trees and Searching • Practice: Binary Trees II

Module 4: Graphs

Explore graph data structures and algorithms, implementing traversal and search algorithms in Java.

• Graphs I • Graphs II • Graphs III • Graphs IV • Practice: Graphs • Practice: Graphs I

Learning Resources

GCA Preparation

Comprehensive resources to help you prepare for and excel in the General Coding Assessment.

Practice Tests Study Guides Tips & Strategies
Access Resources

Career Development

Tools and guidance to help you build professional career artifacts and prepare for job applications.

Resume LinkedIn GitHub Interviews
View Resources

Technical Resources

Review materials on data structures, algorithms, and Java programming concepts.

Data Structures Algorithms Java Big O
Browse Resources

Live Sessions

Schedule and information about upcoming live classes, office hours, and special events.

Code-Alongs Get It Done Office Hours Q&A
View Schedule

Sprint Milestones

Track your progress through this sprint by completing these key milestones:

1

Module Completion

Complete all module content, including videos, guided projects, and practice exercises.

Due: End of Week 1

2

Practice GCA Tests

Take at least two practice GCA tests to prepare for the official assessment.

Due: End of Week 2

Practice Test 1 | Practice Test 2

3

Career Artifacts Submission

Submit your completed career artifacts for review.

Due: End of Week 3

Submission Process

4

Official GCA

Take the official General Coding Assessment and achieve a score of 295 or higher.

Due: End of Sprint

GCA Information

5

Technical Interview Preparation

Complete the technical interview preparation exercises and recording.

Due: End of Sprint

Interview Guidelines