If you’re planning to join the PG-DAC (Post Graduate Diploma in Advanced Computing) program, congratulations! You’re on the path to entering one of the most competitive and rewarding IT upskilling programs in India. But with that prestige comes rigor. The PG-DAC curriculum is intensive, covering everything from system programming and Java to data structures, web technologies, and cloud computing.
To make the most of your PG-DAC experience and stay ahead from Day 1, it helps to be familiar with a few industry-standard tools and technologies. These tools not only ease your understanding of course content but also prepare you for the practical aspects of project work, lab assignments, and placements.
Let’s explore the top 5 tools you should know before joining PG-DAC:
1. Git & GitHub: Version Control Essentials
Why it matters:
Git is a distributed version control system used by almost every development team today. GitHub, built on Git, offers cloud-based repositories and collaboration tools.
What to learn before PG-DAC:
- Basics of Git commands: clone, add, commit, push, pull
- Creating and managing repositories on GitHub
- Collaborating through branches and pull requests
- Reading and resolving merge conflicts
PG-DAC Advantage:
You’ll often work in teams on mini-projects. Knowing Git helps you manage source code collaboratively, track changes, and maintain clean project structures.
2. VS Code: The Developer’s IDE of Choice
Why it matters:
Visual Studio Code (VS Code) is a lightweight, powerful code editor with extensions for nearly every programming language you’ll encounter in PG-DAC—Java, C, HTML/CSS, JavaScript, Python, and more.
What to learn before PG-DAC:
- Navigating VS Code interface and file explorer
- Installing essential extensions (Prettier, Java Extension Pack, GitLens)
- Using the integrated terminal
- Debugging tools and keyboard shortcuts
PG-DAC Advantage:
VS Code is often the go-to IDE for quick programming tasks and front-end development modules. Knowing how to navigate and customize it saves you precious time.
3. MySQL / DBMS Tools: The Backbone of Backend
Why it matters:
A significant part of PG-DAC is learning backend development and database management. MySQL is commonly used, and basic knowledge of querying and schema design goes a long way.
What to learn before PG-DAC:
- SQL basics: SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, DELETE, JOIN
- Creating databases and tables
- Understanding keys and relationships
- Tools like MySQL Workbench or phpMyAdmin for visual database management
PG-DAC Advantage:
When building full-stack projects, handling data effectively is a must. A solid DBMS foundation helps you shine in backend development and placement interviews.
4. Eclipse or IntelliJ: Mastering Java Development
Why it matters:
Java is one of the core languages taught in PG-DAC. IDEs like Eclipse and IntelliJ IDEA make writing, compiling, and debugging Java applications much more efficient.
What to learn before PG-DAC:
- Installing and setting up the IDE
- Creating Java projects, packages, and classes
- Using inbuilt debugging tools
- Understanding how to compile and run applications
PG-DAC Advantage:
Comfort with Java IDEs accelerates your programming pace, especially during Object-Oriented Programming (OOP), JDBC, and Servlets modules.
5. Trello or Notion: Organize Your Learning
Why it matters:
PG-DAC is fast-paced. Staying organized is crucial for managing assignments, project deadlines, and interview prep.
What to learn before PG-DAC:
- Creating boards or notebooks to track modules and assignments
- Setting deadlines and to-do lists
- Keeping logs of daily learning
- Collaborating with teammates on project planning
PG-DAC Advantage:
Efficient time and task management can be your superpower in a course where falling behind is easy. Trello or Notion helps you stay on track without burnout.
Conclusion
Joining PG-DAC is a transformative decision—but preparation is the key to making the most of this opportunity. By learning these five tools—Git/GitHub, VS Code, MySQL, Java IDEs, and Trello/Notion—you not only gain a competitive edge but also reduce the overwhelm of the initial months.
These tools act as a bridge between your theoretical learning and real-world application. Whether it’s working on your first mini-project, cracking a coding round in placements, or collaborating with peers, these skills will help you move faster and with more confidence.
At Infoway, we encourage every student to begin their PG-DAC journey equipped and empowered. Our faculty integrates these tools seamlessly into the curriculum so that students graduate not just with knowledge, but with job-ready skills.