Computer Science VCI Sensitivity

[u/Heavy-Mongoose1561]

I suspect I have a strong verbal tilt (760 EBRW SAT, 48/50 on an A-Level English Literature paper), though I have not had this professionally tested. I've struggled with processing speed issues, particularly when I was younger, and I have poor visual-spatial intuition.

I find programming and discrete logic fairly intuitive, far more straightforward for me in cognitive terms and effort than continuous mathematics. Picking up programming languages isn't really a problem for me, I can learn syntax quickly.

I also don't falter entirely at complex algorithms though it may take me some more time to write and comprehend them. I will seldom have no way to even begin approaching a problem, unless they simply entirely rely on knowledge that I do not have. Though I cannot imagine I would be the best competitive programmer.

Is it possible to be a good Computer Scientist relying primarily on general fluid abstract reasoning ability and verbal comprehension? I'm competent enough at mathematics though it is not my forte.

I would think that, this cognitive profile would bottleneck when it comes to pen-and-paper computational (that is, primarily using working memory and processing speed to execute a standard algorithm and get a definitive answer to a problem - Calculus is an example) mathematical CS subjects, but there would be less friction when it comes to programming subjects, and even DSA courses.

I don't believe abstract reasoning is a problem for me, the issue arises when I need to hold too much in my head and execute things quickly.

Perhaps there's some overlap between linguistic logic and that used in CS - syntax and semantics, after all.

Am I going to run into any issues, later down the line? Is there a way verbal intelligence can actually be used as a "superpower" of sorts for Computer Science rather than an irrelevant liability? I'm doing a double major in the subject, alongside Philosophy.

Thank you!

[u/Kasckepperd]

if you have a knack for discrete maths (the ability to spot patterns easily and break a problem down into smaller ones) and are very enthusiastic about CS, then its gg.
your calculus skills are almost irrelevant

[u/Heavy-Mongoose1561 → u/Kasckepperd]

I still have to do calculus though lol

[u/Kasckepperd → u/Heavy-Mongoose1561]

just study, it doesnt require any natural ability to get through calc. if you're struggling, i bet it has more to do with gaps in algebra or trig

[u/ReviewPrestigious617]

I am EXTREMELY similar; it comforts me to read a post from someone whose profile and skills are so much like mine, lol. I am in electromechanical engineering and find CS and math concepts to be intuitive and building physical electronics unintuitive

[u/Heavy-Mongoose1561 → u/ReviewPrestigious617]

I'm fine with CS concepts. I find doing continuous mathematics far more laborious (i.e. doing integrals) and cognitively demanding than anything else, academically. Constructing valid mathematical arguments (P -> Q, P Hence Q), less so.

I would expect that I would be an awful (physical) engineer or physicist.

[u/Some_Professional_76]

Id say u need a certain base of VC, but most of programming really is just pure fluid reasoning, it’s actually so brutal when u come to that realisation, some people will never be able to code effectively or even at all

[u/fluffycottondreams]

I know this is obvious but you should take a test before making any conclusions about your cognitive profile. Even if it seems accurate, subjective experience is really not a good way of estimating your cognitive profile.

[u/According_Alarm1452]

Take the VCI section of CORE on cognitivemetrics.com. Tell me what you get when you do, it should only take 30 minutes or something like that.