Data Structures and Algorithms Roadmap

A solid foundation for problem-solving and writing efficient code for every programmer.

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Phase Main Topic Content & Learning Activities Objectives & Deliverables
1. Fundamentals Programming & Math
  • Master a programming language (C++, Java, or Python).
  • Understand pointers and memory management (especially with C++).
  • Master the concept of recursion.
  • Learn about Time & Space Complexity (Big O Notation).
  • Analyze the complexity of a simple algorithm.
  • Solve basic recursive problems.
2. Linear DS Sequential Storage
  • Arrays and Strings.
  • Linked Lists: singly, doubly, circular.
  • Stacks.
  • Queues & Priority Queues.
  • Implement these data structures from scratch.
  • Solve application problems (e.g., validate parentheses using a Stack).
3. Basic Algorithms Searching & Sorting
  • Searching Algorithms: Linear, Binary.
  • Basic Sorting Algorithms: Bubble Sort, Selection Sort, Insertion Sort.
  • Efficient Sorting Algorithms: Merge Sort, Quick Sort, Heap Sort.
  • Understand the pros and cons of each algorithm.
  • Implement sorting algorithms and compare their performance.
4. Non-Linear DS Hierarchical & Network Storage
  • Hash Tables: collision handling, hash functions.
  • Trees: Binary Trees, Binary Search Trees (BST).
  • Balanced Trees: AVL Trees, Red-Black Trees.
  • Graphs: Representation (adjacency matrix, adjacency list), types.
  • Implement and operate on binary search trees.
  • Model real-world problems using graphs.
5. Advanced Algorithms Problem-Solving Techniques
  • Graph Traversal: Breadth-First Search (BFS), Depth-First Search (DFS).
  • Greedy Algorithms.
  • Dynamic Programming.
  • Shortest Path: Dijkstra, Bellman-Ford.
  • Minimum Spanning Tree: Prim, Kruskal.
  • Identify problem types and apply appropriate techniques.
  • Solve classic dynamic programming problems.
6. Practice & Application Hands-on Practice
  • Practice on platforms like LeetCode, HackerRank, Codeforces.
  • Focus on common interview question patterns.
  • Participate in programming contests (if possible).
  • Build a small project applying learned DS & Algos.
  • Increase speed and confidence in problem-solving.
  • Build a portfolio with solved problems.
  • Be ready for technical interviews.