How does Big O notation affect software development?

Can you explain what Big O notation is?

Big O notation is a mathematical concept used to describe the performance or complexity of an algorithm, particularly in terms of time and space as the input size grows.

How does it impact software development?

It helps developers understand the efficiency of algorithms, allowing them to make informed choices about which algorithms to use based on the expected input size.

Can you give an example of how to apply it?

Sure! For instance, if you have a sorting algorithm with a time complexity of O(n^2), it may not be suitable for large datasets compared to one with O(n log n).

What are some common complexities I should know?

Common complexities include O(1) for constant time, O(n) for linear time, O(n^2) for quadratic time, and O(log n) for logarithmic time.