Getting Started

Prerequisites for Quantum Computing

What you actually need to know before you start - and what you can learn as you go. You do not need a physics PhD. Different quantum paths need different backgrounds. This guide tells you exactly what each track requires.

Section 1

The Three Entry Points

There is no single "quantum computing prerequisites" list because there is no single path into the field. Pick the track that matches your goals.

  • 01

    Most learners start here

    The Software Track

Write quantum circuits, use frameworks like Qiskit or PennyLane, and run experiments on real hardware via cloud access. No physics degree required.

You need

  • Python (comfortable, not expert)
  • Linear algebra (vectors, matrices, eigenvalues)
  • Complex numbers (Euler's formula, polar form)

You do NOT need

  • Quantum mechanics
  • Advanced physics
  • Differential equations

Typical ramp-up: 2 to 4 months from scratch

  • 02

    For algorithm designers

    The Theory Track

    Understand quantum algorithms deeply, prove correctness, design new protocols, and work at the boundary of quantum computing and complexity theory.

    You need

    • Linear algebra (thorough - not just familiar)
    • Probability theory
    • Some quantum mechanics
    • Complexity theory basics (P, NP, BQP)

    Typical ramp-up: 6 to 12 months of serious study

  • 03

    For engineers and physicists

    The Hardware Track

    Understand and build quantum processors. Work on superconducting circuits, trapped ions, photonics, or neutral atoms at the physical layer.

    You need

    • Quantum mechanics (undergraduate level)
    • Electromagnetism
    • Materials science concepts
    • Cryogenics basics (for superconducting systems)

    Typically requires a physics or engineering degree

    • Filter by track:

    Section 2

    Mathematics Requirements

    Here is what each math topic actually is, why it matters for quantum computing, what level you need, and where to learn it.

    Section 3

    Physics Requirements

    Physics requirements depend heavily on your track. The software track needs very little. The hardware track needs a solid undergraduate physics background.

    Section 4

    Do I Need X?

    Quick answers to the questions beginners ask most often.

    Section 5

    Recommended Learning Order

    The most common case: the software track, starting from a general programming background. Follow this sequence and you will be writing real quantum circuits within a few months.

    1. Python basics

      2-3 weeks (skip if already comfortable)

      If you are not already comfortable with Python, spend 2 to 3 weeks here. You need lists, functions, NumPy arrays, and basic object-oriented syntax.

    2. Linear algebra

      6-8 weeks

      The single most important prerequisite. Cover vectors, matrix multiplication, eigenvalues, and inner products. Brilliant or MIT OCW 18.06 both work well.

      MIT OCW 18.06 →

    3. Complex numbers

      1-2 weeks

      Short but essential. Focus on Euler's formula and polar form. This can run in parallel with the tail end of linear algebra.

    4. First quantum tutorial

      1-2 hours

      Start with what a qubit actually is before diving into circuits. This bridges math to physical intuition.

      Tutorial: What Is a Qubit? →

    5. Hello World with Qiskit

      1-2 hours

      Write and run your first quantum circuit. From this point, you are learning quantum computing by doing it.

      Tutorial: Qiskit Hello World →

    6. Follow a structured learning path

      Ongoing

      Once you have run your first circuits, choose a path matched to your goals: software, theory, or hardware.

      View Learning Paths →