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Algorithmic Toolbox

Alexander S. Kulikov, Daniel M Kane, Pavel Pevzner, Neil Rhodes, and Michael Levin

This online course covers basic algorithmic techniques and ideas for computational problems arising frequently in practical applications: sorting and searching, divide and conquer, greedy algorithms, dynamic programming. We will learn a lot of theory: how to sort data and how it helps for searching; how to break a large problem into pieces and solve them recursively; when it makes sense to proceed greedily; how dynamic programming is used in genomic studies. You will practice solving computational problems, designing new algorithms, and implementing solutions efficiently (so that they run in less than a second).

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What's inside

Syllabus

Programming Challenges

Welcome to the first module of Data Structures and Algorithms! Here we will provide an overview of where algorithms and data structures are used (hint: everywhere) and walk you through a few sample programming challenges. The programming challenges represent an important (and often the most difficult!) part of this specialization because the only way to fully understand an algorithm is to implement it. Writing correct and efficient programs is hard; please don’t be surprised if they don’t work as you planned—our first programs did not work either! We will help you on your journey through the specialization by showing how to implement your first programming challenges. We will also introduce testing techniques that will help increase your chances of passing assignments on your first attempt. In case your program does not work as intended, we will show how to fix it, even if you don’t yet know which test your implementation is failing on.

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Taught by Pavel Pevzner, Alexander S. Kulikov, Daniel M Kane, Neil Rhodes, and Michael Levin, all of whom are recognized in the field of computer algorithms and data structures

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

Examines algorithmic techniques that are highly relevant to industry, including sorting, searching, divide and conquer, greedy algorithms, and dynamic programming

Explores algorithmic techniques that are essential for solving problems in genomic studies

Emphasizes hands-on learning through programming challenges to reinforce understanding and build practical skills

Covers a comprehensive range of topics, including programming, algorithmic warm-up, greedy algorithms, divide-and-conquer, and dynamic programming

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Reviews summary

Solid foundation in core algorithms

According to learners, the Algorithmic Toolbox course provides a positive and thorough foundation in fundamental algorithms and data structures. Many found the lectures clear and engaging, laying a strong theoretical basis. The accompanying programming assignments were frequently highlighted as being the most valuable part, offering essential hands-on practice, although some noted they could be challenging and require significant effort. The course is often described as rigorous and well-structured, making complex topics like Dynamic Programming more accessible. While demanding, students generally feel it's a highly rewarding course for building essential problem-solving skills in computer science.

Expect to dedicate significant study hours.

"This course requires a significant time investment, especially for the programming challenges."

"You need to dedicate a good amount of time to really grasp the concepts and finish assignments."

"It's not a course to rush through; plan for consistent study time."

Assignments are rigorous and require effort.

"The programming assignments were challenging but very helpful."

"Assignments required a lot of effort but solidified understanding."

"Some assignments were difficult, but working through them was rewarding."

"The hands-on coding required by the assignments is where the real learning happens."

Lectures are easy to follow and understand.

"The instructors explain concepts very clearly."

"Lectures were well-structured and easy to follow."

"I found the video explanations to be very helpful."

"Complex topics were broken down into understandable parts."

Builds a strong base in key algorithms.

"The course provides a good introduction to basic algorithms and data structures."

"It covers fundamental algorithmic paradigms like greedy, divide & conquer, and dynamic programming."

"Gained a solid understanding of core algorithmic techniques."

"This course is a great starting point for learning algorithms."

Hands-on coding reinforces theoretical concepts.

"The programming exercises are invaluable for practicing the algorithms learned."

"Implementing the algorithms made a huge difference in my understanding."

"The practice problems directly related to the lecture content and were very useful."

"Solving the coding challenges helped solidify my problem-solving skills."

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 Algorithmic Toolbox with these activities:

Refresher on Mathematical Concepts

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Ensure a solid foundation for understanding the mathematical concepts behind algorithms.

Browse courses on Mathematics

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Review basic mathematical concepts such as sets, functions, and relations.
Practice solving mathematical problems involving logic, algebra, and geometry.

Compilation of Algorithm Resources

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Organize and expand your understanding of algorithms by collecting relevant resources.

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Identify different sources of information on algorithms, such as websites, books, and online forums.
Create a central repository or document to store and organize your findings.
Include summaries and excerpts from the resources you find, along with your own notes and insights.

Mastering Merge Sort

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Enhance your knowledge about divide-and-conquer algorithms and sorting techniques by following through this tutorial.

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Follow the steps explained in the tutorial
Implement the merge sort algorithm in your preferred programming language
Analyze the time and space complexity of your implementation

Four other activities

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Study Group on Dynamic Programming

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Enhance your understanding of dynamic programming by collaborating with peers.

Browse courses on Dynamic programming

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Form a study group with 2-3 other classmates.
Choose a specific dynamic programming topic to focus on.
Discuss different approaches to solving problems related to the topic.
Work together to solve practice problems.

Practice Dynamic Programming Challenges

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Help yourself improve your understanding and skills with dynamic programming by practicing algorithmic challenges.

Browse courses on Greedy Algorithms

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Solve a challenge related to the topic in leetcode
Go over the solution and think how to come up with it on your own
Apply the same algorithm to a similar problem with your own data

Debug Your Code

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Become more proficient in debugging your code and identifying errors.

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intentionally introduce errors into your code
Use a debugger to step through your code and identify the source of the error
Fix the error and test your code again

Design Your Own Algorithm

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Challenge yourself and showcase your understanding of algorithms by creating your own.

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Identify a problem and define the specific goal of your algorithm.
Research existing algorithms that solve similar problems.
Design and implement your algorithm.
Test your algorithm on a variety of inputs and analyze its performance.
Present your algorithm to your classmates or online community.

Career center

Learners who complete Algorithmic Toolbox will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Data Scientist

Data Scientists use a variety of mathematical skills to analyze and interpret data. Algorithmic Toolbox can help you build a foundation in algorithms and data structures, which are essential skills for Data Scientists. This course will also teach you how to implement efficient algorithms, which is a key skill for Data Scientists who need to process large amounts of data quickly.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist

Software Engineer

Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software systems. Algorithmic Toolbox can help you build a foundation in algorithms and data structures, which are essential skills for Software Engineers. This course will also teach you how to implement efficient algorithms, which is a key skill for Software Engineers who need to develop software that runs quickly and efficiently.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer

Computer Scientist

Computer Scientists conduct research on new algorithms and data structures. Algorithmic Toolbox can help you build a foundation in algorithms and data structures, which is essential for Computer Scientists. This course will also teach you how to implement efficient algorithms, which is a key skill for Computer Scientists who need to develop new algorithms and data structures.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Scientist

Quantitative Analyst

Quantitative Analysts use mathematical and statistical techniques to analyze financial data. Algorithmic Toolbox can help you build a foundation in algorithms and data structures, which are essential skills for Quantitative Analysts. This course will also teach you how to implement efficient algorithms, which is a key skill for Quantitative Analysts who need to process large amounts of financial data quickly.

See salaries and explore the career path for Quantitative Analyst

Operations Research Analyst

Operations Research Analysts use mathematical and statistical techniques to solve problems in business and industry. Algorithmic Toolbox can help you build a foundation in algorithms and data structures, which are essential skills for Operations Research Analysts. This course will also teach you how to implement efficient algorithms, which is a key skill for Operations Research Analysts who need to solve problems quickly and efficiently.

See salaries and explore the career path for Operations Research Analyst

Business Analyst

Business Analysts use analytical techniques to solve business problems. Algorithmic Toolbox can help you build a foundation in algorithms and data structures, which are essential skills for Business Analysts. This course will also teach you how to implement efficient algorithms, which is a key skill for Business Analysts who need to solve problems quickly and efficiently.

See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst

Financial Analyst

Financial Analysts use mathematical and statistical techniques to analyze financial data. Algorithmic Toolbox can help you build a foundation in algorithms and data structures, which are essential skills for Financial Analysts. This course will also teach you how to implement efficient algorithms, which is a key skill for Financial Analysts who need to process large amounts of financial data quickly.

See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Analyst

Data Analyst

Data Analysts use analytical techniques to analyze data. Algorithmic Toolbox can help you build a foundation in algorithms and data structures, which are essential skills for Data Analysts. This course will also teach you how to implement efficient algorithms, which is a key skill for Data Analysts who need to process large amounts of data quickly.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Statistician

Statisticians use mathematical and statistical techniques to analyze data. Algorithmic Toolbox can help you build a foundation in algorithms and data structures, which are essential skills for Statisticians. This course will also teach you how to implement efficient algorithms, which is a key skill for Statisticians who need to process large amounts of data quickly.

See salaries and explore the career path for Statistician

Machine Learning Engineer

Machine Learning Engineers design and develop machine learning models. Algorithmic Toolbox can help you build a foundation in algorithms and data structures, which are essential skills for Machine Learning Engineers. This course will also teach you how to implement efficient algorithms, which is a key skill for Machine Learning Engineers who need to develop models that run quickly and efficiently.

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Artificial Intelligence Engineer

Artificial Intelligence Engineers design and develop artificial intelligence systems. Algorithmic Toolbox can help you build a foundation in algorithms and data structures, which are essential skills for Artificial Intelligence Engineers. This course will also teach you how to implement efficient algorithms, which is a key skill for Artificial Intelligence Engineers who need to develop systems that run quickly and efficiently.

See salaries and explore the career path for Artificial Intelligence Engineer

Software Developer

Software Developers design, develop, and maintain software applications. Algorithmic Toolbox can help you build a foundation in algorithms and data structures, which are essential skills for Software Developers. This course will also teach you how to implement efficient algorithms, which is a key skill for Software Developers who need to develop applications that run quickly and efficiently.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Developer

Web Developer

Web Developers design and develop websites. Algorithmic Toolbox can help you build a foundation in algorithms and data structures, which are essential skills for Web Developers. This course will also teach you how to implement efficient algorithms, which is a key skill for Web Developers who need to develop websites that run quickly and efficiently.

See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer

Database Administrator

Database Administrators manage and maintain databases. Algorithmic Toolbox can help you build a foundation in algorithms and data structures, which are essential skills for Database Administrators. This course will also teach you how to implement efficient algorithms, which is a key skill for Database Administrators who need to manage and maintain databases quickly and efficiently.

See salaries and explore the career path for Database Administrator

Systems Analyst

Systems Analysts design and develop computer systems. Algorithmic Toolbox can help you build a foundation in algorithms and data structures, which are essential skills for Systems Analysts. This course will also teach you how to implement efficient algorithms, which is a key skill for Systems Analysts who need to design and develop systems that run quickly and efficiently.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Analyst

Reading list

We've selected 14 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 Algorithmic Toolbox.

Algorithms

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Comprehensive textbook on algorithms that covers a wide range of topics, including sorting, searching, divide-and-conquer, greedy algorithms, and dynamic programming. It is written in a clear and concise style, and it is suitable for both beginners and experienced programmers.

Algorithms (4th Edition)

Hardcover

$$$

Algorithmic Toolbox

What's inside

Syllabus

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Save this course

Reviews summary

Solid foundation in core algorithms

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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