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Algorithms, Part I

This course covers the essential information that every serious programmer needs to know about algorithms and data structures, with emphasis on applications and scientific performance analysis of Java implementations. Part I covers elementary data structures, sorting, and searching algorithms. Part II focuses on graph- and string-processing algorithms.

All the features of this course are available for free. People who are interested in digging deeper into the content may wish to obtain the textbook Algorithms, Fourth Edition (upon which the course is based) or visit the website algs4.cs.princeton.edu for a wealth of additional material.

This course does not offer a certificate upon completion.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Course Introduction

Welcome to Algorithms, Part I.

Union−Find

We illustrate our basic approach to developing and analyzing algorithms by considering the dynamic connectivity problem. We introduce the union−find data type and consider several implementations (quick find, quick union, weighted quick union, and weighted quick union with path compression). Finally, we apply the union−find data type to the percolation problem from physical chemistry.

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what should give you pause

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Teaches algorithm analysis which is highly relevant to computer science

Develops algorithms and data structures, which are core skills for computer science

Taught by Robert Sedgewick and Kevin Wayne, who are recognized for their work in algorithms and data structures

Covers essential information every programmer needs to know

Uses Java implementations, which makes it immediately accessible to learners

Provides a wealth of additional material for those who want to dig deeper

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Reviews summary

Foundational algorithms and data structures

According to learners, this course offers a solid and rigorous foundation in algorithms and data structures, particularly focusing on Java implementations. Many find the lectures clear and well-structured, delivered by an engaging instructor. The programming assignments are frequently mentioned as being challenging yet highly valuable for practical application. While the course is considered excellent for building core computer science skills, some students note that it requires significant time commitment and that having a background in Java and basic data structures is highly recommended. The depth and theoretical rigor are seen as a major strength, although a few reviewers feel it could benefit from more diverse examples beyond the standard set.

Focus is primarily on Java.

"The course uses Java exclusively for implementations, which is great if you know Java."

"If you're not comfortable with Java, there's a steep learning curve in addition to the algorithms."

"While algorithms are universal, the code examples and assignments are all in Java."

"I had to brush up on my Java skills before diving into the programming parts."

Provides a strong theoretical base.

"The course is very rigorous and provides a deep dive into the subject matter."

"It doesn't just teach algorithms, it teaches you how to analyze and think like a computer scientist."

"Excellent coverage of fundamental concepts and performance analysis."

"I feel much more confident in my understanding of algorithms after taking this course."

Problem sets are difficult but rewarding.

"The programming assignments are tough, but they force you to really understand the material."

"Doing the assignments was crucial for me to solidify the concepts taught in lectures."

"Problem sets required a lot of effort and debugging, which ultimately enhanced my coding skills."

"While challenging, the assignments are fair and representative of real-world application of algorithms."

Explanations are easy to follow.

"The lectures are super clear and well-explained, making complex topics easy to grasp."

"I really enjoyed the instructor's teaching style; he breaks down algorithms effectively."

"His lectures are top-notch. He explains concepts very clearly and motivates the topic well."

"The video lessons were concise and straight to the point, covering essential information without unnecessary fluff."

Demands significant study time.

"Be prepared to spend a lot of time on this course, especially the assignments."

"It's not a light course; plan your schedule carefully as it requires consistent effort."

"The workload is substantial, but appropriate for the depth of material covered."

"Found myself dedicating more hours per week than I initially expected."

Need prior Java/CS knowledge.

"This course assumes a solid understanding of Java programming before you start."

"Not for absolute beginners. You should have some CS background, especially data structures."

"Learners without prior experience might find the pace and content overwhelming."

"I struggled initially because I underestimated the required level of Java proficiency."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Algorithms, Part I with these activities:

Follow Tutorials on Merge Sort

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Explore online tutorials on merge sort to gain a deeper understanding of its implementation, performance analysis, and applications.

Browse courses on Merge Sort

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Search for tutorials on merge sort
Follow along with the tutorial explanations
Implement merge sort in Java to practice the concepts

Write a Summary of Union-Find Algorithms

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Summarize the key concepts and implementation details of union-find algorithms to strengthen your understanding of disjoint-set operations.

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Review the course materials on union-find algorithms
Identify the main concepts and algorithms
Write a concise summary in your own words

Compile a Resource List of Java Libraries

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Gather and organize a list of useful Java libraries that can enhance your programming skills and project development.

Browse courses on Java Libraries

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Research and identify relevant Java libraries
Categorize libraries based on their functionalities
Create a documentation or spreadsheet to store the information

Four other activities

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Solve LeetCode Problems

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Practice solving coding problems on LeetCode to reinforce your understanding of algorithm design and data structure implementation techniques.

Browse courses on Algorithms

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Create a LeetCode account
Choose a problem to solve
Implement the solution using Java
Submit your solution and review the results

Implement a Binary Search Tree

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Create a Java implementation of a binary search tree to reinforce your understanding of tree-based data structures and search algorithms.

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Design the interface for your binary search tree
Implement the insertion, search, and deletion methods
Test your implementation with various inputs

Review 'Algorithms, Fourth Edition'

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Read and review the assigned textbook to supplement your understanding of the course material and gain deeper insights into algorithms and data structures.

View Algorithms on Amazon

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Obtain a copy of the textbook
Read assigned chapters and sections
Take notes or summarize key points
Work through practice exercises and problems

Mentor a Beginner in Java Programming

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Share your knowledge and experience by mentoring a beginner in Java programming to reinforce your own understanding and develop your communication skills.

Browse courses on Java

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Identify a beginner who needs guidance
Establish a regular meeting schedule
Review basic Java concepts and answer questions
Provide hands-on coding exercises for practice

Career center

Learners who complete Algorithms, Part I will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Data Scientist

Data Scientists play a vital role in modern data-driven organizations. They work with large and complex datasets to uncover insights and help businesses make informed decisions. Proficiency in algorithms and data structures is a must for Data Scientists, as they need to be able to effectively process and analyze data. The course will provide you with a solid foundation in these essential concepts.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist

Computer Scientist

Computer Scientists research and develop new computing technologies. They need to have a strong understanding of algorithms and data structures to develop new and innovative solutions. This course will provide you with a solid foundation in these topics, which will prepare you for a successful career as a Computer Scientist.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Scientist

Machine Learning Engineer

Machine Learning Engineers develop and implement machine learning algorithms to solve real-world problems. They need to have a strong understanding of algorithms and data structures to develop efficient and accurate algorithms. This course will provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to become a successful Machine Learning Engineer.

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Artificial Intelligence Engineer

Artificial Intelligence Engineers design and develop artificial intelligence systems. They need to have a strong understanding of algorithms and data structures to develop efficient and intelligent systems. This course will provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to become a successful Artificial Intelligence Engineer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Artificial Intelligence Engineer

Data Analyst

Data Analysts use data to identify trends and patterns. They help businesses improve their operations and make better decisions by providing insights into the data. This course can help you become a more effective Data Analyst by providing you with strong knowledge in algorithms and data structures. These topics will enable you to efficiently organize and process large datasets, which is essential in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Software Engineer

Software Engineers translate the lofty goals of computer scientists into practical solutions. They have the skills to write the code that turns those goals into reality. In this role, you will need to use algorithms and data structures to solve complex computational problems. This course offers a comprehensive introduction to algorithms and data structures that will help you to perform your job successfully and advance in your career.

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Data Engineer

Data Engineers design and build systems to store and process data. They need to have a strong understanding of algorithms and data structures to develop efficient and scalable systems. This course will provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to become a successful Data Engineer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Engineer

Research Scientist

Research Scientists conduct research to advance scientific knowledge. They need to have a strong understanding of algorithms and data structures to develop new and innovative solutions. This course will help you build a foundation in these topics, which will prepare you for a successful career as a Research Scientist.

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Robotics Engineer

Robotics Engineers design and build robots. They need to have a strong understanding of algorithms and data structures to develop efficient and intelligent robots. This course will provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to become a successful Robotics Engineer.

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Game Developer

Game Developers design and develop video games. They need to have a strong understanding of algorithms and data structures to develop efficient and engaging games. This course will provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to succeed as a Game Developer.

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Software Developer

Software Developers are responsible for designing, implementing, testing, and maintaining software. They need to have a strong understanding of algorithms and data structures to develop high-quality, efficient software solutions. By taking this course, you will build a solid foundation in algorithms and data structures that will make you an effective and valuable Software Developer.

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Web Developer

Web Developers design and develop websites. They need to have a strong understanding of algorithms and data structures to create efficient and user-friendly websites. This course will provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to become a successful Web Developer.

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Mobile Developer

Mobile Developers design and develop applications for mobile devices. They need to have a strong understanding of algorithms and data structures to create efficient and user-friendly apps. This course will provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to succeed as a Mobile Developer.

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Information Security Analyst

Information Security Analysts plan and implement security measures to protect an organization's computer networks and systems. They need to have a strong understanding of algorithms and data structures to develop effective security solutions. This course will help you build a foundation in these topics, which will help you become a more successful Information Security Analyst.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Analyst

Computer Programmer

Computer Programmers write, modify, and test code to create and maintain software. They need to have a strong understanding of algorithms and data structures to develop effective and efficient code. This course will provide you with a solid foundation in these topics, which will help you excel in your role as a Computer Programmer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Programmer

Reading list

We've selected 32 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Algorithms, Part I.

Introduction to Programming in Java

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Is the basis for the course and introduces essential algorithms and data structures needed for computer programming.

Algorithms, Part I

What's inside

Syllabus

Traffic lights

Save this course

Reviews summary

Foundational algorithms and data structures

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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