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CS201 - Elementary Data Structures

This course offers an in-depth exploration of Data Structures and their associated Algorithms, focusing on both theoretical constructs and real-world implementation in C++. Designed for aspiring software developers and computer scientists, the curriculum emphasizes the efficient storage, manipulation, and retrieval of data to solve computational problems.


Course Content Overview

1. Abstract Data Types (ADTs)

  • Delve into the concept of Abstract Data Types, which define operations independently of their implementation.
  • Differentiate between ADTs and Data Structures, highlighting their interplay in software engineering.

2. Arrays

  • Master arrays as a linear, contiguous Data Structure.
  • Implement multi-dimensional arrays and learn efficient memory management techniques in C++.

3. Stacks and Queues

  • Understand Last-In-First-Out (LIFO) and First-In-First-Out (FIFO) principles.
  • Implement stacks and queues using static arrays, dynamic arrays, and circular arrays.
  • Analyze their operational complexities and trade-offs in system-level programming.

4. Pointers and References in C++

  • Cultivate a deep understanding of memory addressing and pointer arithmetic.
  • Master the utilization of references and dereferencing for robust and flexible programming.
  • Explore the application of pointers in dynamic memory management and interfacing with hardware.

5. Dynamic Memory Allocation

  • Explore runtime memory allocation using malloc, calloc, and new operators in C++.
  • Address challenges such as fragmentation, memory leaks, and dangling pointers, and implement strategies for their mitigation.
  • Understand the importance of RAII (Resource Acquisition Is Initialization) for efficient resource management.

6. Linked Data Structures

  • Implement Linked Lists, Linked Stacks, and Linked Queues using node-based architectures.
  • Explore singly linked lists, doubly linked lists, and circular linked lists for flexible memory usage.
  • Harness non-contiguous memory allocation to dynamically manage datasets of varying sizes.

7. Algorithm Efficiency

  • Evaluate algorithms using asymptotic notations such as Big O, Big Theta (Θ), and Big Omega (Ω).
  • Conduct time complexity and space complexity analysis to optimize performance.
  • Explore amortized analysis for understanding average-case behavior in dynamic systems.

8. Searching and Sorting Algorithms

  • Implement fundamental algorithms such as:
    • Linear Search and Binary Search for efficient data retrieval.
    • Bubble Sort, Quick Sort, Merge Sort, and Heap Sort for data organization.
  • Conduct best-case, worst-case, and average-case performance analysis for these algorithms.

9. Advanced Data Structures: Hash Tables, Graphs, and Trees

  • Design Hash Tables with open addressing and chaining for collision resolution.
  • Explore Graphs, including directed, undirected, and weighted graphs, and their representations using adjacency matrices and adjacency lists.
  • Master Trees and specialized variants such as Binary Trees, Binary Search Trees (BSTs), and Balanced Trees like AVL and Red-Black Trees.
  • Learn advanced traversal algorithms like Depth-First Search (DFS) and Breadth-First Search (BFS).

Key Learning Outcomes

By completing this course, you will:

  • Gain proficiency in implementing and manipulating complex Data Structures in C++.
  • Develop an analytical approach to evaluating algorithmic efficiency using rigorous mathematical techniques.
  • Master memory management and mitigate risks such as fragmentation and resource mismanagement.
  • Build a strong foundation for advanced topics such as graph theory, dynamic programming, and database indexing.

Assessment and Certification

  • To earn the CS201 Course Completion Certificate, you must score 70% or higher on the Final Exam.
  • The certificate validates your proficiency in foundational Data Structures and Algorithms, a critical skillset for advanced computing roles.

This course is a rigorous journey into the realm of computational theory and practical engineering, equipping you with the technical acumen required for tackling real-world software development challenges.


Authors

Passionate about creating impactful educational content for aspiring developers. @NadidLinchestein

License

This project is licensed under the MIT License, granting you the freedom to use, modify, and distribute this content with proper attribution.