AD1: ALGORITHMS AND DATA STRUCTURS

• Definition of algorithms

An algorithm is a procedure for solving a mathematical problem in a finite number of steps that frequently involves repetition of an operation.                                  [Merriam Webster]

 

It just means:

Defined input

Defined instructions

Defined or desried output

Finite Number of operations

 

You put something in it, it will be handled in a certain way and after some time you'll get a result.

 

• Definition of data structures

A data structure is a collection of data values, the relationships among them, and the functions or operations that can be applied to the data.                                         [Encyclopedia of Computer Science, 4th Ed.]

 

Examples:

Array:

Data values:    int [] arr = new int [3];

Relationships: boolean eq = arr.equals(arr2);

F&O:                int size = arr.lengh();