Data Structures and Algorithms
Lecture for IIT Students
By: Atul Tripathi
What is Data Structure?
• A data structure is a way of organizing data so
it can be used efficiently.
• It defines the relationship among data and the
operations that can be applied to them.
What is an Algorithm?
• An algorithm is a step-by-step method to solve
a specific problem.
• It provides a logical sequence of steps for
computation.
Need for Data Structures
• Efficient data access and modification.
• Improved memory management.
• Faster algorithm execution.
• Scalability in real-world applications.
Classification of Data Structures
• Linear Data Structures: Arrays, Linked Lists,
Stacks, Queues.
• Non-linear Data Structures: Trees, Graphs,
Hash tables.
• Static and Dynamic data structures.
Arrays
• Collection of elements stored at contiguous
memory locations.
• Supports random access.
• Fixed size, easy traversal.
Linked List
• Consists of nodes containing data and
pointers.
• Types: Singly, Doubly, Circular.
• Dynamic size, efficient insertion/deletion.
Stack
• LIFO principle.
• Operations: push(), pop(), peek().
• Used in recursion, undo operations.
Queue
• FIFO principle.
• Types: Simple, Circular, Priority, Deque.
• Used in scheduling, buffering.
Trees
• Hierarchical structure with root and child
nodes.
• Binary tree, BST, AVL, Heap.
• Used in databases, search engines.
Graphs
• Collection of vertices connected by edges.
• Directed, Undirected, Weighted, Unweighted.
• Used in networks, navigation, and AI.
Hashing
• Maps keys to values using a hash function.
• Used in searching, caching, and indexing.
• Collision handling: Chaining, Open Addressing.
Searching Algorithms
• Linear Search – O(n).
• Binary Search – O(log n) for sorted data.
• Hash-based search – O(1) average.
Sorting Algorithms
• Bubble, Selection, Insertion – Simple O(n²).
• Merge, Quick, Heap – Efficient O(n log n).
• Sorting used in databases and ranking.
Algorithm Analysis
• Time Complexity and Space Complexity.
• Asymptotic notations: O, Ω, Θ.
• Focus on efficiency and optimization.
Applications of DSA
• Operating Systems, Databases, AI, Web,
Networks.
• Used in Google Maps, Facebook Graphs, etc.
Interview Relevance
• Common DSA questions in technical
interviews.
• Understanding Big-O helps in optimization.
Summary of Key Concepts
• Data structures organize and store data
efficiently.
• Algorithms operate on data structures to solve
problems.
• Choice of data structure affects algorithm
performance.
Conclusion
• DSA is the backbone of efficient programming.
• Mastering DSA improves logical and problem-
solving skills.
• Essential for computer science and
engineering careers.
About the Lecturer
• Presented by: Atul Tripathi
• Department of Computer Science &
Engineering
• Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)
• Email:
[email protected]• Lecture Series: Data Structures and Algorithms
