Selecting a Data Structure
How can we select the data structure needed to solve a problem? You have already studied where to use array and the size of array and when and where to use the pointers etc. First of all, we have to analyze the problem to determine the resource constraints that a solution must meet. Suppose, the data is so huge i.e. in Gega bytes (GBs) while the disc space available with us is just 200 Mega bytes. This problem can not be solved with programming. Rather, we will have to buy a new disk. Secondly, it is necessary to determine the basic operations that must be supported. Quantify the resource constraints for each operation. What does it mean? Suppose you have to insert the data in the computer or database and have to search some data item. Let’s take the example of telephone directory. Suppose there are eight million names in the directory. Now someone asks you about the name of some particular person. You want that this query should be answered as soon as possible. You may add or delete some data. It will be advisable to consider all these operations when you select some data structure. Finally select the data structure that meets these requirements the maximum. Without, sufficient experience, it will be difficult to determine which one is the best data structure. We can get the help from internet, books or from someone whom you know for already getting the problems solved. We may find a similar example and try to use it. After this course, you will be familiar with the data structures and algorithms that are used to solve the computer problems.
		BACK	HOME	NEXT