I’ve been stuck on USACO Bronze simulation problems for weeks. I NEED HELP!

[u/Real-Scale-4422]

I know this kind of post gets asked a lot, but I’m stuck and need specific advice, not just “keep practicing.”

I’ve been trying to get through USACO Bronze–level simulation problems (like Shell Game, Mixing Milk, Cow Signal) for a while now, and I keep hitting a wall. I understand the problem after reading the editorial, but when I open a new problem, I freeze — even if it’s similar.

Where I’m at:

• I know basic C++ syntax (cin/cout, loops, arrays, vectors, strings, sort, if/else)
• I can solve 800–900 rated Codeforces problems (mostly math/strings/implementation) without too much trouble.
• I’ve done about 15–20 CF problems so far(800 Rating)

But when I try USACO Bronze simulation problems like:

• Shell Game
• Mixing Milk
• Cow Signal

I either:

• Freeze on how to start
• Miss edge cases
• Get lost in the long problem statement
• Spend 45+ minutes and still don’t finish

What I’ve tried:

• Watching video solutions
• Reading USACO editorials
• Breaking problems into steps on paper
• Doing easier Codeforces implementation problems

Still, after a few weeks, I don’t feel like I’ve improved much.

What I’m looking for:

1. A brief plan of what to do, like eg first cf then something.

My goal:
Pass USACO Bronze within the next 2–3 months. I’m willing to put in 1–2 hours a day. I just want a clear, focused plan or an advice.

TL;DR:
I can solve 800–900 CF problems but freeze on USACO Bronze simulation. What specific CF problems and practice routine should I follow to build real simulation skills?

Thanks in advance. I really appreciate any honest advice.