Introduction to Data Structures and Algorithms

What are Data Structures?

• An arrangement of data in a computer’s memory or sometimes on a disk
• Examples include arrays, linked lists, stacks, binary trees, and hash tables
• Allow efficient organization and manipulation of data

What are Algorithms?

• Step-by-step procedures to solve problems
• Manipulate data in structures in various ways (searching, sorting, etc.)
• Different from pseudocode - algorithms are abstract concepts, pseudocode is their representation

Properties of Data Structures

• Organization method
• Access patterns
• Memory usage
• Performance characteristics

Characteristics of Algorithms

• Input: Zero or more inputs
• Output: At least one output
• Definiteness: Clear and unambiguous steps
• Finiteness: Must terminate after finite steps
• Effectiveness: Each step must be basic and feasible

What Problems Can Be Solved?

• Real-world data storage: Databases, file systems
• Programmer’s tools: Stacks for function calls, queues for task scheduling
• Real-world modeling: Graphs for networks, trees for hierarchies

Module Learning Outcomes

• Describe concepts of data structures and algorithms
• Utilize them in programming problem-solving
• Create and implement various structures and algorithms
• Compare efficiency and choose appropriate solutions