What is data structure and algorithms? How is it important for developers?
What is data structures ?
Data structures are a defined and orderly set of data, arranged to make a process easier to follow. They store objects and allow their manipulation based on two different types
- Linear
- Arrays
2. Stacks
3. Linked Lists
4. Queues
- Non-Linear
1 . Trees
2. Graphs
3. Tables
4. Sets
Data Structure Advantages :
- Efficient Memory use
- Reusability
- Abstraction
What is Algorithms ?
Algorithm is a step-by-step procedure, which defines a set of instructions to be executed in a certain order to get the desired output. Algorithms are generally created independent of underlying languages, i.e. an algorithm can be implemented in more than one programming language.
Some important categories of algorithms:
- Search
- Sort
- Insert
- Update
- Delete
The efficiency of an algorithm is determined through the following properties:
- Space complexity: The memory space needed by a specific algorithm to be executed is known as space complexity.
- Time Complexity: The time required by a program to be completed is known as time complexity.
Data Structures and Algorithms are the identity of a good Software Developer. The main reason behind this is Data Structures and Algorithms improve the problem-solving ability of a candidate to a great extent.
Benefits of Learning Data Structures & Algorithms
Despite its importance, many students consider DSA an unnecessary module in their curriculum. However, DSA cultivates logical thinking and makes you a better programmer. It’s a skill that will help you throughout your career.
Why Data Structures are needed ?
With increasing complexities in computer algorithms, the amount of data usage is increasing, this can affect the performance of the application and can create some areas of concern:
Processing speed: To handle very large data, high-speed processing is required, but with growing data processor may fail to achive required processing speed.
Data Search: Getting a particular record from database should be quick and with optimum use of resources.
Multiple requests: To handle simultanous requests from multiple users
How Data Structures & Algorithms are important for a developers ?
Programmers who are competent in data structures and algorithms can easily perform the tasks related to data processing, automated reasoning, or calculations. Data structure and algorithm is significant for developers as it shows their problem-solving abilities amongst the prospective employers.
Knowledge of data structures like Hash Tables, Trees, Graphs, and various algorithms goes a long way in solving problems efficiently and the interviewers are more interested in seeing how candidates use these tools to solve a problem.
Thanks for reading!!
