Problem Solving, Data Structures, and Algorithms

1. Problem Solving

Problem-solving is a fundamental skill in programming that involves understanding a problem, devising a plan, implementing a solution, and evaluating the results. The key steps in problem-solving include:Understanding, breaking down, and implementing solutions efficiently.

2. Data Structures

Data structures are ways to store and organize data efficiently. Common data structures include:

Linear Structures

• Arrays: Fixed-size collection of elements stored in contiguous memory locations.
• Linked Lists:Collection of nodes where each node contains data and a reference to the next node.
• Stacks:Last-In-First-Out (LIFO) structure for handling data.
• Queues:First-In-First-Out (FIFO) structure for processing data.

Non-Linear Structures

• Trees:Hierarchical structure with nodes (Binary Tree, Binary Search Tree, AVL Tree, etc.).
• Graphs:Nodes (vertices) connected by edges, useful for representing networks.
• Heaps:Special tree-based structure used for priority queues.
• Hash Tables: Stores key-value pairs for fast data retrieval.

3. Algorithms

Algorithms are step-by-step instructions to solve computational problems. Major algorithm types include:

Sorting

• Bubble Sort
• Quick Sort
• Merge Sort
• Selection Sort
• Insertion Sort

Searching

• Linear Search
• Binary Search

Graph Algorithms

• Depth-First Search (DFS)
• Breadth-First Search (BFS)
• Dijkstra's Algorithm

Dynamic programming

• Fibonacci Series
• Knapsack Problem
• Matrix Chain Multiplication

4. Object-Oriented Programming

OOP is a programming paradigm based on objects and classes. Key concepts include:

• Classes & Objects: Blueprints and instances of real-world entities
• Encapsulation:Hiding data using private and public access specifiers.
• Inheritance:Deriving new classes from existing ones.
• Polymorphism:Same function/method name behaving differently in different scenarios.
• Abstraction:Hiding implementation details and exposing only necessary functionality.

5.Programming Languages

C

Procedural programming language with low-level memory access. Fast execution and widely used in system programming. Key libraries: stdio.h, stdlib.h, string.h, etc.

Java

Object-oriented programming language with platform independence (JVM). Automatic garbage collection and memory management. Key libraries: java.util, java.io, java.lang, etc.

Python

High-level, interpreted language with dynamic typing. Simple syntax and extensive libraries (NumPy, Pandas, TensorFlow, etc.). Supports both procedural and object-oriented programming paradigms.