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This tutorial is a part of the Data Structures and Algorithms class:

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The importance of information

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Typical classes of the software problem

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The software problem is to find the useful information from existing information. Useful is key here. Typical classes of useful information (software problem) are:

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  1. Maximization (profit, gain, ...)
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  2. Minimization (loss, time, …)
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  3. Finding all available options with given restrictions (list of choices on solutions, paths, …)
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  4. Finding most optimal solution with given restrictions (travel path given time and cost restriction)
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  5. Finding a truth (binary tree height, material volume of a hollow sphere, ...)
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What is an algorithm?

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  1. Understand the class of problem it solves clearly.
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  2. Quickly identify if the given problem (by its special characteristics) is solvable with a learnt algorithm.
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  3. Quickly explain, code and calculate Big O complexity of the solution.
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  4. ✅ Collected a new tool in your toolbox.
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Common mistake while talking about an algorithm

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Do learning algorithms kill creativity?

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No, because:

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Real life interview questions

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  1. Why do you want to learn algorithms?
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  2. How do you know if a problem is solvable by a learnt algorithm?
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  3. What is the only software problem?
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  4. How does algorithms help in the big picture of doing software engineering?
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