Programming competitions are fantastic opportunities for young programmers to showcase their skills, learn new concepts, and connect with others. There are many different types of competitions available, each with its unique appeal and challenges. They come in different formats, on different topics, and with varying degrees of requirements.

In this article, we'll look into the four that seem to be the most common for new programmers.

1) Algorithmic Problem-Solving Contests: These competitions focus on solving programming problems with accurate outputs based on given inputs.
They are commonly divided into two broad categories, Short (2-3 hours) and Long (ICPC, NCPC, etc) formats based on time or in Team-based (usually Long contests) and individual (usually Short contests).

• Essential Skills:
  • Data structures and algorithms
  • Programming languages (C, C++, STL)

Practice Platforms to hone your skills:

• Codeforces
• Codechef
• HackerRank
• Hackerearth
• LightOJ
• SPOJ

2) CTF (Capture the Flag):

• Emphasizes cybersecurity expertise.
• Various formats: Jeopardy, Attack & Defense
• Team-based competitions.
• Essential Skills:
  • System vulnerabilities
  • Networking
  • Cryptography

3) Hackathons: These are competitions focused on developing app/website/software prototypes to address real-world problems. You not only build the solution but usually also pitch your solution for a real-world problem. Some of these even require you to consider the business aspect of your solutions.

Essential Skills:

• Programming
• Design
• Presentation
• Video editing
• Writing

4) Machine Learning/AI Contests: These types of competitions require you to create machine learning models using provided datasets or code AI bots/agents to perform specific tasks. Although they have a relatively high requirement for entry they are great for people who love AI and Machine learning.

Essential Skills:

• Machine learning
• Data analysis
• Python, R, or any programming language with good tools for machine learning, data science libraries.

Learning & Practice:

• Kaggle: The go-to platform
• Exploring data sets
• Codingames

Different people love different types of programming contests. However, algorithmic contests are the most dominant one that doesn't mean there aren't any other contests of value or ones that have fun. What's important is to explore as many as you can and find the ones you enjoy the most or the ones that align with your personal goals.

Let me know if you know of other interesting formats or have any queries.

[Side note: This is mostly for students who haven't yet graduated or are completely new to programming. Many more niche competitions have not been included for that reason. But you if think there's some way to improve this post do let me know. As a new writer, I appreciate your feedback]