Data Structure
Data structure refers to the organization and arrangement of data in a specific format. The data structure chosen for a particular dataset can greatly impact the efficiency and effectiveness of the algorithms used to analyze or manipulate it.
Some common types of data structures include:
- Arrays: An array is a collection of elements, each identified by an index or a key. Elements can be of any data type, such as integers, strings, or objects.
- Lists: A list is a linear collection of elements, where each element points to the next element. Lists can be singly linked, doubly linked, or circular.
- Stack: A stack is a last-in, first-out (LIFO) data structure, where the last element added to the stack is the first one to be removed.
- Queue: A queue is a first-in, first-out (FIFO) data structure, where the first element added to the queue is the first one to be removed.
- Trees: A tree is a non-linear data structure that has a hierarchical structure. Trees can be binary, ternary, or n-ary.
- Graphs: A graph is a non-linear data structure that consists of nodes and edges. Graphs can be directed or undirected, weighted or unweighted.
- Sets: A set is a collection of unique elements.
- Hash tables: A hash table is a data structure that uses a hash function to map keys to values. Hash tables are used for fast access to elements by key.
The choice of data structure depends on the specific requirements of the problem, such as the amount of data, the nature of the operations that will be performed, and the desired time and space complexity.