I hear this question quite often and I’ll like to answer it for good.
To learn data structures and algorithms in order to increase your chances of getting hired at Google, you may want to consider the following steps:
- Start with the basics: Make sure you have a solid understanding of basic data structures such as arrays, linked lists, stacks, queues, and trees.
- Practice with coding challenges: There are many websites, such as LeetCode, HackerRank, and CodeForces, that offer coding challenges that can help you practice your skills and prepare for technical interviews.
- Study common algorithms: Learn the most common algorithms such as sorting algorithms (e.g. quicksort, mergesort), searching algorithms (e.g. binary search), and graph algorithms (e.g. Dijkstra’s, A*).
- Learn about time and space complexity: Understand how to analyze the time and space complexity of algorithms, and be able to explain it.
- Practice in a real-world scenario: Try to solve real-world problems using the data structures and algorithms you have learned.
- Participate in coding competitions: Participating in coding competitions like Google Code Jam, Top Coder, and CodeForces will help you to boost your problem-solving skills and increase your chances of getting hired at Google.
- Keep learning: Keep updated with the latest developments in the field and continue to learn new data structures and algorithms.
Are there any books that could help me?
There are many books available on data structures and algorithms that can help you improve your understanding and skills in the field. Here are some popular books that are widely considered to be some of the best resources for learning data structures and algorithms:
- “Introduction to Algorithms” by Thomas H. Cormen, Charles E. Leiserson, Ronald L. Rivest, and Clifford Stein: This comprehensive textbook covers a wide range of algorithms and data structures, and is considered to be a classic in the field. This is like the defacto standard on the subject and is taught at most universities. You can rent from Amazon as it’s a little expensive.
- “Algorithms, Part I” and “Algorithms, Part II” by Robert Sedgewick and Kevin Wayne: These online courses, which are available on the online learning platform Coursera, are based on the book “Algorithms” by Robert Sedgewick and Kevin Wayne. The courses cover the same material as the book but with more interactive and hands-on learning.
- “The Algorithm Design Manual” by Steven S. Skiena: This book provides an in-depth look at algorithm design and is considered to be a valuable resource for both students and practitioners.
- “Data Structures and Algorithms in Python” by Michael T. Goodrich, Roberto Tamassia, and Michael H. Goldwasser: This book covers the implementation and analysis of data structures and algorithms in the Python programming language. I own a copy and it’s amazing.
- “Cracking the Coding Interview” by Gayle Laakmann McDowell: This book provides a comprehensive guide to preparing for technical interviews, including many example questions and solutions for data structures and algorithms. I also own a copy of this one and love it.
- “Elements of Programming Interviews” by Adnan Aziz, Tsung-Hsien Lee, and Amit Prakash: This book is designed to help prepare for technical interviews and covers a wide range of topics including data structures, algorithms and problem-solving.
These are some of the best books to start with, but keep in mind that every person has their own learning style and preferences, so it’s good to explore and find what works best for you.