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Kyle Stewart-Franz, Abe Feinberg, and Brynn Claypoole
Learn about the basic algorithms used in programming.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Start out with some elementary algorithms such as binary search, tries, heaps and more.
Learn about the most common sorting algorithms.
Go deeper into algorithms with faster divide and conquer algorithms.
Read more
A series of real-world open ended problems which train you to apply suitable data structures and algorithms under different context.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Begins with accessible algorithms like binary search, tries, and heaps
Develops popular sorting algorithms, such as quicksort, mergesort, and insertion sort
Explores conquer and divide algorithms
Provides practical challenges to apply algorithms to solve real-world problems
This course is suitable for aspiring programmers seeking a foundation in algorithms
Taught by experienced instructors, Kyle Stewart-Franz, Abe Feinberg, and Brynn Claypoole

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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 Basic Algorithms with these activities:
Read the book "Introduction to Algorithms" by Thomas H. Cormen, Charles E. Leiserson, Ronald L. Rivest, and Clifford Stein.
This classic textbook provides a comprehensive overview of algorithms.
Show steps
  • Read the book carefully and take notes.
  • Work through the exercises at the end of each chapter.
  • Implement some of the algorithms in a programming language.
Watch video tutorials on the course topics.
Reinforce your understanding of the course material by watching video tutorials.
Show steps
  • Find a video tutorial on a topic that you are struggling with.
  • Watch the tutorial and take notes.
  • Try implementing the concepts from the tutorial in your own code.
Solve practice problems
Improve your skills at applying algorithms to real-world problems.
Browse courses on Binary Search
Show steps
  • Identify the algorithm that best fits the problem.
  • Implement the algorithm in a programming language.
  • Test your implementation on a variety of inputs.
Four other activities
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Show all seven activities
Join a study group or participate in a coding challenge with peers.
Collaborate with others to learn and improve your skills.
Show steps
  • Find a study group or coding challenge that is relevant to the course.
  • Join the group or challenge and participate actively.
  • Help others and ask for help when you need it.
Attend a workshop on data structures and algorithms.
Learn from experts and network with other students.
Show steps
  • Find a workshop that fits your skill level and interests.
  • Register for the workshop.
  • Attend the workshop and participate actively.
Write a blog post or article about a topic related to the course.
Share your knowledge and understanding with others.
Browse courses on Binary Search
Show steps
  • Choose a topic that you are familiar with.
  • Research the topic and gather information.
  • Write a blog post or article that is clear, concise, and informative.
  • Share your blog post or article with others.
Build a simple project that uses data structures and algorithms.
Apply your knowledge to a real-world problem.
Browse courses on Binary Search
Show steps
  • Brainstorm a project idea that you are interested in.
  • Research the data structures and algorithms that you will need to use.
  • Design and implement your project.
  • Test your project and make sure it works correctly.
  • Share your project with others.

Career center

Learners who complete Basic Algorithms will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Algorithm Engineer
Algorithm Engineers design and develop new algorithms to solve complex problems. These algorithms can be used in a variety of applications, including software engineering, data science, and machine learning. The Basic Algorithms course would be a great fit for someone who wants to become an Algorithm Engineer because it would provide them with the foundational knowledge they need to understand how algorithms work. This course would also help them to develop the critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are essential for success in this field.
Computer Scientist
Computer Scientists design, develop, and maintain computer systems. They also conduct research in the field of computer science. The Basic Algorithms course would be a great fit for someone who wants to become a Computer Scientist because it would provide them with the foundational knowledge they need to understand how algorithms work. This course would also help them to develop the critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are essential for success in this field.
Machine Learning Engineer
Machine Learning Engineers design, develop, and maintain machine learning models. These models can be used to automate tasks, make predictions, and identify patterns in data. The Basic Algorithms course would be a great fit for someone who wants to become a Machine Learning Engineer because it would provide them with the foundational knowledge they need to understand how algorithms work. This course would also help them to develop the critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are essential for success in this field.
Software Engineer
Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software applications. These applications could be used for a variety of purposes, including business, entertainment, and education. The Basic Algorithms course would be a great fit for someone who wants to become a Software Engineer because it would provide them with the foundational knowledge they need to understand how algorithms work. This course would also help them to develop the critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are essential for success in this field.
Data Scientist
Data Scientists use their knowledge of mathematics, statistics, and computer science to extract insights from data. This data can be used to make better decisions about everything from marketing campaigns to product development. The Basic Algorithms course would be a great fit for someone who wants to become a Data Scientist because it would provide them with the strong foundation in algorithms that is essential for success in this field.
Operations Research Analyst
Operations Research Analysts use mathematical and analytical techniques to solve business problems. They use this information to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and make better decisions. The Basic Algorithms course would be a great fit for someone who wants to become an Operations Research Analyst because it would provide them with the strong foundation in algorithms that is essential for success in this field.
Quantitative Analyst
Quantitative Analysts use mathematical and statistical models to analyze financial data. They use this information to make investment decisions and to develop trading strategies. The Basic Algorithms course would be a great fit for someone who wants to become a Quantitative Analyst because it would provide them with the strong foundation in algorithms that is essential for success in this field.
Blockchain Developer
Blockchain Developers design, develop, and maintain blockchain applications. These applications are used to create secure and transparent systems for a variety of purposes, including finance, supply chain management, and healthcare. The Basic Algorithms course would be a great fit for someone who wants to become a Blockchain Developer because it would provide them with the foundational knowledge they need to understand how algorithms work. This course would also help them to develop the critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are essential for success in this field.
Data Analyst
Data Analysts collect, clean, and analyze data to help businesses make better decisions. They use a variety of statistical and machine learning techniques to identify trends and patterns in data. The Basic Algorithms course may be useful for someone who wants to become a Data Analyst because it would provide them with a foundation in algorithms that could be helpful in understanding how data analysis techniques work. This course could also help them to develop the critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are essential for success in this field.
Information Security Analyst
Information Security Analysts protect computer systems from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. They use a variety of techniques to detect and prevent cyberattacks. The Basic Algorithms course may be useful for someone who wants to become an Information Security Analyst because it would provide them with a foundation in algorithms that could be helpful in understanding how cyberattacks work. This course could also help them to develop the critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are essential for success in this field.
Cybersecurity Analyst
Cybersecurity Analysts protect computer systems from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. They use a variety of techniques to detect and prevent cyberattacks. The Basic Algorithms course may be useful for someone who wants to become a Cybersecurity Analyst because it would provide them with a foundation in algorithms that could be helpful in understanding how cyberattacks work. This course could also help them to develop the critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are essential for success in this field.
Network Administrator
Network Administrators design, implement, and maintain computer networks. They ensure that networks are running smoothly and that data is secure. The Basic Algorithms course may be useful for someone who wants to become a Network Administrator because it would provide them with a foundation in algorithms that could be helpful in understanding how networks work. This course could also help them to develop the critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are essential for success in this field.
Database Administrator
Database Administrators design, implement, and maintain databases. They ensure that databases are running smoothly and that data is secure. The Basic Algorithms course may be useful for someone who wants to become a Database Administrator because it would provide them with a foundation in algorithms that could be helpful in understanding how databases work. This course could also help them to develop the critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are essential for success in this field.
Systems Analyst
Systems Analysts design, implement, and maintain computer systems. They work with users to identify needs, develop solutions, and implement changes. The Basic Algorithms course may be useful for someone who wants to become a Systems Analyst because it would provide them with a foundation in algorithms that could be helpful in understanding how computer systems work. This course could also help them to develop the critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are essential for success in this field.
Project Manager
Project Managers plan, organize, and execute projects. They work with stakeholders to define project goals, develop project plans, and track project progress. The Basic Algorithms course may be useful for someone who wants to become a Project Manager because it would provide them with a foundation in algorithms that could be helpful in understanding how to manage projects efficiently. This course could also help them to develop the critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are essential for success in this field.

Reading list

We've selected 11 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 Basic Algorithms.
Is considered a classic guide to algorithm design, providing a comprehensive collection of algorithms and design techniques. It's a valuable resource for those seeking in-depth knowledge.
Approaches algorithms from a more theoretical perspective, exploring the underlying principles and concepts of algorithms. It offers a solid foundation for those seeking a deeper understanding.
Focuses on designing algorithms rather than analyzing them, which logical follow-up to this course. There is an optional textbook for this course, 'Algorithm Design Manual', and it's a good next step.
Provides another very thorough exploration of algorithms, with a focus on Java implementations. If you prefer Java and want something more extensive than the course offers, this is worth considering.
Provides an excellent foundation in mathematical concepts and techniques that are essential for understanding algorithms. It's recommended if you want to delve deeper into the mathematical underpinnings.
Offers a collection of programming challenges that are designed to test your algorithmic skills. It's recommended if you want to practice applying algorithms to real-world problems.
Covers a wide range of algorithms in a concise and accessible manner. If you want a quick overview of multiple algorithms, this book offers a solid foundation.
Focuses on Python implementations of data structures and algorithms, providing a solid foundation for those interested in Python programming.
Focuses specifically on C++ implementations of data structures and algorithms, making it particularly useful if you are primarily interested in C++ programming.
Focuses specifically on Java implementations of data structures and algorithms, making it particularly useful if you are primarily interested in Java programming.
Is the classic textbook for algorithms. It's an excellent, but more extensive reference than is needed as a beginner. It good resource with more detail than the course covers.

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