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A few weeks ago I mentioned the Dyalog APL annual problem-solving competition . I've been researching previous contests, and wanted to share my findings. It's worth entering, even if you don't know APL. Many of the previous winners learned APL just for the competition . They spent a few days learning the language, and a few more working on the contest problems. Some won top prizes (worth $2000 this year). It's worth re-entering, even if you entered last year. Many of the winners had applied before. Some even won prizes in successive years. It's worth entering wherever you live. Winners have come from all over the world. It's worth entering even if you don't win. I've taken this list of reasons from my forthcoming introduction to APL. (The book should be available in time to help you with your competition entries!) 5 good reasons to learn this powerful language APL is concise and expressive, so you can try out new ideas very quick...

If you like coding and s olving problems, and are a full-time student , you cou ld win up to $2000 and an expenses-paid trip to a conference in Glasgow later this year. All you need is a computer and some free software. The computer could be a Ras pberry Pi (any model) or a lap top running Windows, O S /X or Lin ux. I' ll tell you where to get th e APL software further down th is post .   First, though, a warning. If you enter this competition it could change your life! I’m serious. Just under f ifty years ago I had a chance to learn APL. I did, and it shaped my whole career. I'm still using A PL to research neural networks . Now, if you want, it’s your turn. The Dyalog APL 2016 problem solving competition   Dyalog have just announced their annual APL problems solving competition. They want to introduce more people to this extraordinary, powerful language. If you are a full time student you could win a big cash prize (up to $2000) and an expenses-paid trip t...