We identify 10 (ten) ways to get started in Quantum Computing. We recognise the common ways you can get involved in the quantum industry. Regardless of your background and experience, we outline some ideas to help you get into or move onwards with Quantum Computing.
1. Learn to program. Start with classical languages like python and then move to a quantum language like Qiskit or Q#. There are plenty of quantum languages, but it is best to start with the most popular ones with plenty of support.
2. Understand the basics of qubits. Learn how the fundamental unit of quantum computing behaves. A qubit is a unit of quantum information. It is the quantum analogue of the classical bit, the basic unit of information in classical computing. Just as a classical bit can be in one of two states (0 or 1), a qubit can also be in one of two states, but the laws of quantum mechanics determine these states. A qubit can be in a superposition of states, representing more information than a classical bit. This makes qubits a powerful resource for quantum computing.
This can involve learning about the principles of quantum mechanics, such as superposition and entanglement, as well as the mathematical formalism used to describe quantum systems.
3. Grab an excellent textbook such as Quantum Book Review: Dancing with Qubits, Essential Mathematics for Quantum Computing, by Leonard Woody III, a review. Find one pitched at your level. Check out our book reviews. Here are others:
- “Quantum Computation and Quantum Information” by Michael Nielsen and Isaac Chuang
- “Introduction to Quantum Computing” by Phillip Kaye, Raymond Laflamme, and Michele Mosca
- “Quantum Computing for Computer Scientists” by Noson Yanofsky and Mirco A. Mannucci
- “Quantum Computing Since Democritus” by Scott Aaronson
4. Try online tutorials such as the one from Q-CTRL. There are plenty of other tutorials, ranging from Qiskit Tutorials to Q# tutorials.
5. Try a MOOC course such as from edx or Coursera.
6. Start reading. One of the ways to learn quantum computing is to learn from online articles. Just getting stuck in can often be better than an extended plan. You can start by catching up on the latest news from Quantum Zeitgeist! But also consider reading the interesting blogs from the likes of Xanadu and IBM which often have information and how-to-guides.
7. Read Quantum Zeitgeist to understand current topics of interest.
8. Go back to school. Consider a Masters’s program in Quantum. There is a growing number to choose from.
9. YouTube. There are invaluable tutorials and introductions online.
10. Attend a Hackathon or Workshop. There are plenty, from Xanadus Qhack to Qiskit summer school.