How do I choose the right data structure for my project?

How do I choose the right data structure for my project?

Choosing the right data structure depends on your project's requirements. What kind of data will you be handling?

I need to store a list of user profiles and frequently access them.

In that case, a list or an array might work well. If you need fast lookups, consider using a hash table.

What if I also need to sort the profiles by age?

You might want to use a balanced tree structure like a binary search tree, which allows for efficient sorting and searching.

Are there any trade-offs I should be aware of?

Yes, each data structure has its own performance characteristics. For example, hash tables offer fast access but can use more memory.