How do you choose what to study when you do not know where you are stuck?
Attempt one suitable problem and mark the first step you cannot continue. Choose material for that obstacle instead of assuming you must repeat an entire introductory course.
Distinguish meaning from operation
With a public dataset, you might not understand a column or might understand it but be unable to filter it. One problem needs context; the other needs an operational example. Write “I can reach this step, but cannot yet…” to make the resource search specific.
Return to the same obstacle
After reading an explanation, try the original step again. Record any newly discovered prerequisite. If the step works, continue. A resource's long contents list does not make every chapter relevant to your immediate question.
A worksheet you can use
Problem: __. Completed steps: __. First obstacle: __. Missing concept, operation or data: __. Material consulted: __. Retry result: __.
What if I have no starting point?
Inspect a complete example, learn its basic vocabulary and choose a smaller problem.
Evidence and scope
This approach does not replace comprehensive professional training. Your practice problem may also be too difficult.
Harvard ARC discusses review and individual and group study. WKND schedules are editorial, not institution-endorsed. Harvard Academic Resource Center — Study Strategies
Sources and further reading
This collection in Chinese and English · Life possibilities library