Recurse

Learn how operating systems work

Processes, scheduling, memory, locks and files: what the OS does under every program, explained with everyday pictures and short questions. For students taking an OS course and engineers who want to know what their code runs on.

Free, about three minutes a lesson, 14 units. On the web now; the Android app is coming to Google Play.

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What you will learn

Processes

Know how the OS runs many programs at once and how they ask it for help.

Scheduling

Know how the OS decides which program runs next, and why.

Memory

Know how each program gets its own memory, and what happens when it runs out.

Concurrency

Know why threads that share data break, and how locks keep them correct.

Files and I/O

Know how files are stored, saved safely, and how the OS talks to devices.

How it works

  • A short idea first, then quick questions: tap an answer, order lines, sort, match or find the bug.
  • Wrong answers come back at the end until they stick.
  • Streaks, XP, leagues and races with friends keep the habit going.
  • Spaced review brings back what you are about to forget.

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