Can you explain the difference between singly and doubly linked lists?

Can you explain the difference between singly and doubly linked lists?

Sure! A singly linked list has nodes that point to the next node only, while a doubly linked list has nodes that point to both the next and the previous nodes.

What are the advantages of using a doubly linked list?

Doubly linked lists allow for easier traversal in both directions and can simplify certain operations like deletion.

Are there any disadvantages to using doubly linked lists?

Yes, they use more memory due to the extra pointer for the previous node, and they can be slightly more complex to implement.

In what scenarios would you prefer a singly linked list?

Singly linked lists are preferred when memory efficiency is crucial and you only need to traverse the list in one direction.

Can you give me an example of when to use each type?

Certainly! Use a singly linked list for simple stacks or queues, and a doubly linked list for complex data structures like deques.