In the implementation of each data structure, the authors encourage students to perform a thorough analysis of the design approach and expected performance before actually undertaking detailed design and implementation. Students gain an understanding of why different data structures are needed, the applications they are suited for, and the advantages and disadvantages of their possible implementations.

Case studies follow a five-step process (problem specification, analysis, design, implementation, and testing) that has been adapted to object-oriented programming. Students are encouraged to think critically about the five-step process and use it in   their problem solutions. Several problems have extensive discussions of testing and include methods that automate the testing process. Some cases are revisited in later chapters and new solutions are provided that use different data structures.

The text assumes a first course in programming and is designed for Data Structures or the second course in programming, especially those courses that include coverage of OO design and algorithms. A C++ primer is provided for students who have taken a course in another programming language or for those who need a review in C++.   Finally, more advanced coverage of C++ is found in an appendix.

Course Hierarchy:

Course is the second course in the CS curriculum

Required of CS majors

Course names include Data Structures and Data Structures & Algorithms