Articles for category: Data Structures and Algorithms

Load Factor and Rehashing

Load factor is defined as (m/n) where n is the total size of the hash table and m is the preferred number of entries that can be inserted before an increment in the size of the underlying data structure is required. Rehashing is a technique in which the table is resized, i.e., the size of the table ...

Heap Data Structure

Heap Data Structure is a special case of balanced binary tree data structure where the root-node key is compared with its children and arranged accordingly. Min-Heap − Where the value of the root node is less than or equal to either of its children. Max-Heap − Where the value of the root node is greater ...

Array Data Structure

Array is defined as an ordered set of similar data items. All the data items of an array are stored in consecutive memory locations in RAM. The elements of an array are of same data type and each item can be accessed using the same name. Takeaways What is Array in Data Structure? An array is a data ...

Stack in Data Structure

A stack in data structure, following the Last In First Out (LIFO) principle, is a crucial linear data structure for sequential task completion. Imagine entering a crowded elevator last and exiting first; this mirrors stack behavior. Understanding this, we’ll explore the formal definition of a stack data structure in C++. Some Key Points Related to ...

Why Learn Data Structures and Algorithms?

Data structures and algorithms form the backbone of computer science, enabling efficient problem-solving and optimization of software applications. Data structures organize and store data, while algorithms provide step-by-step procedures for solving computational problems. Together, they empower programmers to create efficient and scalable solutions, making them fundamental concepts for anyone delving into the world of programming and ...

KMP Algorithm

The Knuth-Morris-Pratt (KMP) algorithm revolutionized string matching by achieving linear time complexity, denoted as O(n). Introduced in 1970 by Knuth, Morris, and Pratt, this algorithm efficiently identifies patterns within text by employing a ‘Prefix Table,’ alternatively known as the LPS (Longest Proper Prefix which is also Suffix) Table. Unlike traditional methods, KMP avoids redundant comparisons, ...

Tree Data Structure

A tree data structure organizes data hierarchically, comprising nodes connected by edges. The root stands atop, branching out to child nodes, each potentially having its own sub-nodes, creating a recursive pattern. In contrast, linear structures like arrays, linked lists, stacks, and queues arrange elements sequentially. The choice between these structures hinges on several factors. Firstly, the nature ...

Doubly Linked List

A Doubly Linked List enhances the standard Linked List by allowing bidirectional navigation. Each node points to both the next and the previous node, enabling efficient forward and backward traversal. This structure contrasts with Single Linked Lists, where movement is restricted to one direction, making it challenging to access previous elements without iterating from the start. What ...

Priority Queue in Data Structure

What is Priority Queue? A priority queue serves as a specialized data structure where elements are organized based on their priority values, ensuring that higher-priority items are processed before lower-priority ones. This organization enables efficient retrieval of the most critical elements. Various implementations, such as arrays, linked lists, heaps, or binary search trees, offer different ...

Counting Sort Algorithm

Counting Sort Algorithm is a sorting algorithm that works best when you have a small range of numbers to sort. Instead of comparing elements like in other sorting methods, it counts how many times each number appears and then puts them in order based on that count. This makes it really fast when the range ...