How to study

Study tips

When studying computer science, it's important to follow the "natural progression". Some topics build on each other, meaning you can’t write something without knowing your ABCs, just like you can’t reverse software without understanding assembly and programming in general.

Some topics are standalone, as they have their own separate path but eventually connect somewhere down the line. These standalone topics usually lead to a more integrated understanding as you progress:

• Programming
• Networking and security

Key Takeaways:

• Use spaced repetition (e.g., Anki) for memorization.
• Write summaries like these, in your own words to reinforce understanding.
• Don't jump from topic to topic unless you know what you're doing. Most of the "steps" build on top of each other.
• Every small "step" you take should be a small practical project, code base, or challenge.
• Keep note of where you left off studying.

Roadmap

    graph TD;

    subgraph Code[Programming fundamentals]
        subgraph HL[High-Level]
            cs["C# (C Sharp)"]
        end
        subgraph LL[Lower-Level]
            cpp[C / C++]
            --> x86-64[x86 / x86_64 assembly]
        end
    end

    subgraph OS[Operating System fundamentals]
        os[Operating systems]
        --> winint[Windows internals]
    end

    subgraph RE[Reverse Engineering]
        sa[Static analysis]
        da[Dynamic analysis]
        dd[Debuggers & Disassemblers]
    end

    subgraph NS[Networking and security]
        subgraph NET[Networking Concepts]
            osi[OSI Model]
            ip[IP Model]
            tecp[TCP/IP Protocols]
        end

        subgraph PEN[Pentesting basics]
            REC[Reconnaissance & Scanning]
            EXP[Exploiting & Post-Exploitation]
            SOC[SOC Techniques]
        end
    end

    LL <-.-> RE
    OS <-.-> RE
    NET -.-> PEN

Technical Tips

Tip

• In case you are studying this using the raw GitHub files, add this folder to your Windows Defender exclusions as it might remove valuable resources.
• Install add-ons like Dark Reader and Remove HTML Elements to make reading better on supported webpages.
• If you really can't wrap your head around something, just ask ChatGPT or other AI to clarify it.
• Make bookmarks of useful resources in your browser application.