What are the trade-offs of different data structures?

What are the trade-offs of different data structures?

Different data structures have unique strengths and weaknesses. For example, arrays offer fast access but are fixed in size, while linked lists are dynamic but slower for access.

Can you explain the trade-offs between using a hash table and a binary search tree?

Sure! Hash tables provide average O(1) time complexity for lookups, but they can have collisions. Binary search trees offer O(log n) time complexity for lookups and maintain order, but they can become unbalanced.

What about the trade-offs of using a stack versus a queue?

Stacks follow Last In First Out (LIFO) which is great for backtracking, while queues follow First In First Out (FIFO) which is ideal for scheduling tasks.

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

Consider factors like the type of operations you'll perform, the size of the data, and performance requirements. Analyzing these will help you choose the most suitable data structure.