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Sriram Sankaranarayanan

This course covers basic algorithm design techniques such as divide and conquer, dynamic programming, and greedy algorithms. It concludes with a brief introduction to intractability (NP-completeness) and using linear/integer programming solvers for solving optimization problems. We will also cover some advanced topics in data structures.

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This course covers basic algorithm design techniques such as divide and conquer, dynamic programming, and greedy algorithms. It concludes with a brief introduction to intractability (NP-completeness) and using linear/integer programming solvers for solving optimization problems. We will also cover some advanced topics in data structures.

This course can be taken for academic credit as part of CU Boulder’s MS in Data Science or MS in Computer Science degrees offered on the Coursera platform. These fully accredited graduate degrees offer targeted courses, short 8-week sessions, and pay-as-you-go tuition. Admission is based on performance in three preliminary courses, not academic history. CU degrees on Coursera are ideal for recent graduates or working professionals. Learn more:

MS in Data Science: https://www.coursera.org/degrees/master-of-science-data-science-boulder

MS in Computer Science: https://coursera.org/degrees/ms-computer-science-boulder

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What's inside

Syllabus

Divide and Conquer Algorithms
We will formally cover divide and conquer algorithms as a design scheme and look at some divide and conquer algorithms we have encountered in the past. We will learn some divide and conquer algorithms for Integer Multiplication (Karatsuba’s Algorithm), Matrix Multiplication (Strassen’s Algorithm), Fast Fourier Transforms (FFTs), and Finding Closest Pair of Points.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores algorithm design techniques that are fundamental in software development and computer science
Teaches classic algorithms like divide and conquer, dynamic programming, and greedy algorithms
Introduces intractability and optimization problems, expanding learner's understanding of algorithm complexity
Offers advanced topics in data structures, deepening learner's understanding of data organization and manipulation
Can be taken for academic credit, providing learners the opportunity to enhance their credentials

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Reviews summary

Rigorous algorithmic foundations for professionals

According to students, this course offers a rigorous and comprehensive deep dive into key algorithm design. Learners praise the instructor for explaining complex concepts with clarity. The challenging assignments are crucial for internalizing the material. However, it demands strong prerequisites, notably in data structures, and is not for beginners. While strong on theory, some desire more hands-on coding. Overall, it's highly relevant for technical interviews and career advancement.
Provides a deep dive into algorithmic theory.
"This is a strong theoretical course. I found the coverage of divide and conquer and greedy algorithms comprehensive."
"I found it definitely geared towards those pursuing a CS degree or looking to deepen their theoretical understanding, less so for quick practical application without further work."
"I found the material highly theoretical, which is fine, but more interactive elements or coding demos would have helped immensely."
Highly beneficial for technical interviews and roles.
"I feel much more confident tackling LeetCode problems now. Highly recommended for anyone serious about competitive programming or interviews."
"My understanding of recursion and optimization significantly improved. Truly a top-tier course."
"I feel much better prepared for my software engineering interviews after this."
Instructor excels at clarifying Dynamic Programming.
"The instructor explains complex concepts like dynamic programming and greedy algorithms with such clarity."
"I had struggled with Dynamic Programming before, but this course made it click, and the way he explains it is truly intuitive."
"I particularly appreciated the detailed explanations provided for solutions, which clarified many intimidating topics."
Problem sets are rigorous and crucial for learning.
"The assignments were challenging but really solidified my understanding."
"The weekly quizzes and programming assignments were key to internalizing the concepts."
"The lectures are dense, and I had to rewatch them multiple times. The assignments are the real learning experience here..."
Needs more in-lecture coding or solution walkthroughs.
"I wish there were more hands-on coding exercises within the lectures."
"I found the lack of detailed walkthroughs for complex problems made it hard to learn from mistakes."
"The biggest issue for me was the lack of immediate feedback on programming assignments, which sometimes led to frustration."
Fast-paced lectures, some desire more interactivity.
"I struggled with the pace. It felt like concepts were introduced quickly without enough reinforcement."
"I found the instructor's style a bit monotone, which made it hard to stay engaged."
"The lectures are dense, and I had to rewatch them multiple times."
Requires a strong background in CS fundamentals.
"The prerequisites are definitely important; this isn't for beginners."
"I found this course incredibly challenging and often frustrating. The prerequisites were understated; I came in with a decent CS background but still felt overwhelmed."
"I struggled because this course assumed a strong background in data structures and discrete mathematics."

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 Dynamic Programming, Greedy Algorithms with these activities:
Create an Infographic on Divide-and-Conquer Algorithms
Enhance your understanding and solidify your grasp of divide-and-conquer algorithms by creating a visual representation.
Show steps
  • Gather information and examples on various divide-and-conquer algorithms.
  • Design an infographic that visually explains the key concepts, steps, and applications of these algorithms.
  • Use clear and concise language, along with diagrams and illustrations, to convey the information effectively.
  • Share your infographic with your classmates or fellow learners for feedback and discussion.
Practice Sorting Algorithms
Reinforce your understanding of sorting algorithms by practicing on various input datasets.
Browse courses on Sorting
Show steps
  • Review the concept of sorting algorithms.
  • Implement different sorting algorithms (e.g., Merge Sort, Quick Sort, Insertion Sort) in your preferred programming language.
  • Write test cases with diverse input arrays to evaluate the correctness and efficiency of your implementations.
  • Analyze the time and space complexity of your implemented sorting algorithms.
Compile Resources on Divide-and-Conquer Algorithms
Expand your understanding of divide-and-conquer algorithms by gathering and organizing relevant resources.
Show steps
  • Search for articles, tutorials, and online courses on divide-and-conquer algorithms.
  • Identify and select resources that provide valuable insights and explanations.
  • Organize the resources into a cohesive collection, categorized by topic or difficulty level.
  • Share your compilation with your classmates or fellow learners.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Walkthrough of Advanced Dynamic Programming Problems
Enhance your problem-solving skills in dynamic programming by following guided tutorials that demonstrate advanced techniques.
Browse courses on Dynamic programming
Show steps
  • Find resources or tutorials covering advanced dynamic programming techniques (e.g., memoized recursion, tabulation).
  • Select a problem that showcases the application of advanced dynamic programming techniques.
  • Follow the tutorial steps and understand the problem-solving approach.
  • Implement the solution in your preferred programming language.
Code Challenges on Dynamic Programming
Sharpen your dynamic programming skills by solving coding challenges that require the application of advanced techniques.
Browse courses on Dynamic programming
Show steps
  • Identify online platforms or resources that offer coding challenges on dynamic programming.
  • Select a problem that interests you and aligns with your learning goals.
  • Attempt to solve the problem using dynamic programming techniques.
  • Compare your solution with optimal solutions and analyze your approach.
Attend a Workshop on Data Structures and Algorithms
Gain hands-on experience and insights by attending a workshop that focuses on advanced data structures and algorithms.
Browse courses on Data Structures
Show steps
  • Research and identify workshops on data structures and algorithms.
  • Register for a workshop that aligns with your interests and learning goals.
  • Actively participate in the workshop sessions and engage in discussions.
  • Apply the knowledge and techniques learned in the workshop to your coursework.
Design and Implement a Pathfinding Algorithm
Develop a deep understanding of pathfinding algorithms and their practical applications by designing and implementing one yourself.
Browse courses on Algorithms
Show steps
  • Choose a specific pathfinding algorithm to focus on (e.g., Dijkstra's, A*).
  • Design and implement the algorithm in a programming language of your choice.
  • Craft various test cases to evaluate the performance and correctness of your implementation.
  • Analyze the results and identify areas for improvement or optimization.

Career center

Learners who complete Dynamic Programming, Greedy Algorithms will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Algorithm Engineer
Algorithm Engineers research and develop new algorithms to solve complex problems. The algorithms and techniques covered in this course provide a strong foundation for Algorithm Engineers seeking to advance their knowledge of algorithm design.
Research Scientist
Research Scientists conduct research in a variety of scientific fields, including computer science. This course provides a strong foundation in the algorithms and techniques used in computer science research, making it a valuable asset for Research Scientists.
Machine Learning Engineer
Machine Learning Engineers design, develop, and maintain machine learning systems. This course provides a strong foundation in the algorithms and techniques used in machine learning, making it a valuable asset for Machine Learning Engineers.
Quantitative Analyst
Quantitative Analysts use mathematical and statistical models to analyze financial data and make investment decisions. This course provides a strong foundation in the algorithms and techniques used in quantitative finance.
Software Architect
Software Architects design and develop the overall architecture of software systems. This course provides a strong foundation in the algorithms and data structures used in software architecture.
Computer Scientist
Computer Scientists research and develop new computing technologies and applications. This course may be useful for Computer Scientists seeking to advance their knowledge of algorithm design techniques.
Operations Research Analyst
Operations Research Analysts use mathematical and analytical techniques to solve complex problems in business and industry. The algorithms and techniques covered in this course provide a strong foundation for Operations Research Analysts seeking to apply these techniques to real-world problems.
Data Engineer
Data Engineers design, build, and maintain data pipelines and data infrastructure. This course provides a strong foundation in the algorithms and data structures used in data engineering.
Data Scientist
Data Scientists use algorithms and other techniques to extract insights from data to aid decision-making. As algorithms are an important tool in the Data Scientist's toolbelt, this course may be useful for cultivating a deeper understanding of the algorithms used in data science.
Software Engineer
Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software systems. This course may be useful for Software Engineers seeking to build a foundation in algorithms and data structures, which are fundamental building blocks of software systems.
Data Analyst
Data Analysts collect, clean, and analyze data to provide insights to businesses and organizations. This course may be useful for Data Analysts seeking to build a stronger foundation in algorithms and data structures.
Business Analyst
Business Analysts use data and analysis to help businesses make better decisions. This course may be useful for Business Analysts seeking to build a stronger foundation in data analysis techniques.
Product Manager
Product Managers are responsible for the development and management of products. This course may provide a foundation in the algorithms and techniques used in product development.
Project Manager
Project Managers plan, execute, and close projects. This course may provide a foundation in the algorithms and techniques used in project management.
Consultant
Consultants provide advice and guidance to businesses and organizations. This course may provide a foundation in the algorithms and techniques used in consulting.

Reading list

We've selected 13 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 Dynamic Programming, Greedy Algorithms.
Comprehensive introduction to algorithms, data structures, and their applications. It great resource for students who want to learn more about the theoretical foundations of computer science.
Provides a comprehensive overview of dynamic programming and combinatorial optimization. It great resource for students who want to learn more about these topics in depth.
Provides a comprehensive overview of greedy algorithms. It great resource for students who want to learn more about these topics in depth.
Provides a comprehensive overview of data structures and algorithms in Python. It great resource for students who want to learn more about these topics in depth.
Provides a comprehensive overview of algorithmics. It great resource for students who want to learn more about these topics in depth.
Provides a comprehensive overview of quantum computing. It great resource for students who want to learn more about these topics in depth.
Provides a comprehensive overview of quantum computation and quantum information. It great resource for students who want to learn more about these topics in depth.
Provides a comprehensive overview of linear programming and network flows. It great resource for students who want to learn more about these topics in depth.
Provides a comprehensive overview of integer programming. It great resource for students who want to learn more about these topics in depth.
Provides a comprehensive overview of combinatorial optimization. It great resource for students who want to learn more about these topics in depth.
Provides a comprehensive overview of approximation algorithms. It great resource for students who want to learn more about these topics in depth.
Provides a comprehensive overview of network flows. It great resource for students who want to learn more about these topics in depth.

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