If you are interested in software development, you will love data structures and algorithms. This field shows up in interviews at leading technology companies.
Want to learn more about data structures and algorithms to develop problem-solving skills and expand career opportunities? This article is for you!
I’ve spent quite a bit of time studying data structures and algorithms. And here are the 10 best books written on the subject that you shouldn’t miss. You are sure to learn valuable knowledge with these books written by experts.
1. Grokking Algorithms: An Illustrated Guide for Programmers
Specifications:
- Language: English.
- Paperback: 256 pages.
- Item Weight: 14.1 ounces.
- Dimensions: 7.38 x 0.4 x 9.25 inches.
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Reason To Buy
- Solve problems from basic to complex.
- Cover the most popular search algorithms.
- More than 400 images with detailed captions.
- Suitable for both programmers and beginners.
Review
As the name suggests, the primary audience that Grokking Algorithms targets are programmers. If you have a little background in the field of programming, you will likely apply the popular algorithms that this book introduces with ease.
Yet, even if you are a beginner, you can learn a bit from Grokking Algorithms. The author focused on helping me build my algorithmic thinking skills in the early chapters. With guidance from Aditya Bhargava, I solved data problems.
All examples the author gives come with complete diagrams and annotations. I was utterly captivated by the author’s creative presentation.
2. Introduction to Algorithms
Specifications:
- Language: English.
- Paperback: 1292 pages.
- Item Weight: 4.95 pounds.
- Dimensions: 9.08 x 8.18 x 2.06 inches.
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Reason To Buy
- Refer to many in-depth algorithms
- Cover modern algorithmic problems
- The approach is suitable for all audiences.
- Each chapter is designed as an independent learning unit.
- Simple explanation but without sacrificing mathematical accuracy.
Review
I have spent a lot of time learning about algorithms and data structures. In the beginning, most of the books I found needed to be more precise and complete.
The Introduction to Algorithms has wholly changed my prejudice about books on algorithms and data structures. This book covers the in-depth algorithms, and the author’s leading makes the confusing knowledge accessible to readers.
Its other distinctive feature is that each chapter is an independent learning unit. I usually research any item I’m interested in in the book.
3. Data Structures & Algorithms Made Easy
Specifications:
- Language: English.
- Paperback: 415 pages.
- Item Weight: 2.12 pounds.
- Dimensions: 8.5 x 0.94 x 11 inches.
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Reason To Buy
- Every solution is coded in C/C++.
- System of diverse learning topics.
- Solutions to problems about algorithms and data structures.
- Suitable for people working in the field of computer science.
- A reliable reference for preparing for exams and interviews.
Review
I have found valuable solutions to my problem by reading Data Structures & Algorithms Made. As the name suggests, this book provides solutions to all sorts of problems involving complex algorithms and data structures. All of its solutions are with C/C++. It is a big plus for people who work in computer science.
With diverse topics and impressive solutions, I recommend this book to people preparing for computer science-related interviews and exams.
4. Algorithms
Specifications:
- Language: English.
- Paperback: 256 pages.
- Item Weight: 13.1 ounces.
- Dimensions: 6 x 0.58 x 9 inches.
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Reason To Buy
- The leading monograph on algorithms.
- Suitable for many different audiences.
- Present the algorithm concisely and concisely.
- Include a system of exercises and detailed answers
- Mention 50+ algorithms that every programmer should know.
Review
Algorithms are one of my top algorithmic monographs. It only focuses on today’s most widely used computer algorithms.
With more than 50 algorithms, every programmer should know the book presented in a scientific, easy-to-understand way. The book taught me how to handle data structures fully, perform sorting, handle strings, and complete many other complex tasks.
In short, it is a must-read for programmers or people working in computer science. Or if you are interested in science or engineering, you should also refer to the essential algorithms in this book.
5. Algorithms Unlocked
Specifications:
- Language: English.
- Paperback: 240 pages.
- Item Weight: 12 ounces.
- Dimensions: 9.25 x 5.69 x 0.48 inches.
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Reason To Buy
- The presentation is attractive to the readers.
- A detailed guide to the basics of computer algorithms.
- It gives many ways for the practical applications of the algorithm
- Suitable for people who have no background in data structures.
- Instructions to find information on the computer are simple.
Review
I was skeptical about how computers solve problems and thought only experts needed to work with computer algorithms. Yet, Computer Science Professor Thomas H. Cormen with Algorithms Unlocked utterly changed my mind.
This book offers a series of highly detailed instructions on the very basics of computer algorithms. Even if I haven’t delved into this field, through the author’s guidance, I have understood the practical applications of the algorithm.
A few examples that I enjoyed reading the book were GPS control algorithms and protecting credit card numbers. The examples mentioned in Algorithms Unlocked are purely practical and explain quite well any question regarding how algorithms help computers solve problems.
6. Algorithms Illuminated: The Basics
Specifications:
- Language: English.
- Paperback: 226 pages.
- Item Weight: 12 ounces.
- Dimensions: 6 x 0.51 x 9 inches.
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Reason To Buy
- Simple, accessible algorithm introduction.
- Holistically solve problems.
- Regardless of the programming language.
- Acting reading comprehension and motivation.
- Change the reader’s mind about computer science.
Review
With just over two hundred pages, Tim Roughgarden with Algorithms Illuminated has changed how I see and think about computer science.
The author clearly explains the complex knowledge of computer science. In some book chapters, the author even motivated me to continue to learn and master the knowledge.
I was also impressed with Roughgarden’s style of implementing the book. He generalized the problem in the most general way.
Thanks to that, I can confidently solve a series of similar problems instead of depending only on specific algorithms or programming languages.
If you’re a student in computer science and want to get started with these basic concepts, Algorithms Illuminated is a book you should take advantage of.
7. The Algorithm Design Manual
Specifications:
- Language: English.
- Paperback: 748 pages.
- Item Weight: 2.86 pounds.
- Dimensions: 7.01 x 1.69 x 9.25 inches.
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Reason To Buy
- Rich practice exercises.
- Provide algorithmic resource catalogs
- Focus on design practices and algorithms.
- Include 75 algorithmic solving methods
- Algorithm design algorithm knowledge is brief.
Review
In the early chapters of The Algorithm Design Manual, the author explains algorithm designs and analyzes their performance. After some helpful chapters are practice exercises and 75 efficient algorithmic problem-solving methods.
More specifically, it is also one of the few books that provide a catalog of algorithmic resources, documentation, and links to algorithm implementations in the programming language.
8. Data Structures & Algorithms in Java
Specifications
- Language: English.
- Paperback: 800 pages.
- Item Weight: 3.09 pounds.
- Dimensions: 7.85 x 2 x 9.35 inches.
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Reason To Buy
- Update the latest knowledge about Java JDK.
- Present understanding of data structures & algorithms in a simple, understandable way.
- Give clear and easy-to-understand examples.
- The exercises at the end of the chapter are helpful for practice.
- The knowledge shared in the book is highly applicable in practice.
Review
Data structures & algorithms in Java are a rather complicated matter. Yet, with Robert Lafore’s explanations and tutorials, I got a deeper insight into this.
The author gives clear and easy-to-understand examples throughout the book. I also found a few tutorials for creating small programs in web browsers and creating data structure graphics.
Another highlight in Data Structures & Algorithms in Java is updating the latest knowledge about Java JDK. It also includes questions and exercises that help me effectively review what I’ve learned.
9. Hello World: Being Human in the Age of Algorithms
Specifications:
- Language: English.
- Paperback: 256 pages.
- Item Weight: 7.2 ounces.
- Dimensions: 5.5 x 0.7 x 8.3 inches.
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Reason To Buy
- Ask interesting questions
- Intelligent and funny leadership.
- Refers to a relatively broad field
- Dive into real-world scenarios for artificial intelligence.
- Addresses many ethical dilemmas with algorithms
Review
Unlike the books I introduced above, the content of Hello World: Being Human in the Age of Algorithms is not simply about data structures & algorithms. It deals with artificial intelligence – a broader and more complex field.
The author also spends a lot of time discussing practical situations when applying artificial intelligence. I had to spend a lot of time thinking about the author’s questions: should automated algorithms be applied to make decisions?
After completing Hello World, the author’s highly entertaining leadership and the moral dilemmas he presented left a deep impression on me.
10. Algorithm Design
Specifications:
- Language: English.
- Paperback: 864 pages.
- Item Weight: 3.46 pounds.
- Dimensions: 9 x 8 x 1.25 inches.
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Reason To Buy
- Captivating opening with real-world stories.
- Thoroughly solve the mentioned problems.
- Provide basic algorithmic concepts and knowledge
- Guide readers to solve problems arising in the algorithm.
- Arousing interest in learning about algorithms for readers.
Review
Algorithm Design is also a book related to data structures & algorithms that I immensely enjoyed. The author opens the book with real-world stories. Then, it solved these problems and gave deep concepts and knowledge about algorithms.
Algorithm Design also includes instructions so readers can solve problems that may arise when building and using computer applications.
Finally, the author concludes his book by offering incentives to keep readers interested in learning about the algorithm design process.
Buying Guide
Language
Most of the best books on algorithms and data structures are available in English. If English isn’t your native language, try to find books in your language.
Algorithms and data structures are a rather complex field. You will need help understanding this if there is a language barrier.
Experiences
I am always interested in the author’s experience sharing in the book. This knowledge is invaluable that you cannot find anywhere.
Author
Besides, you should also look for books written by authors who have spent many years working on data structures and algorithms.
The author should also have an innovative and scientific way of leading, helping readers easily absorb knowledge.
FAQs
Can I learn data structures and algorithms in 3 months?
You can learn the basic knowledge of data structures as well as algorithms in 2-3 months. Yet, to master the knowledge in this field and become an expert, you will have to spend time learning and practicing.
How can I study data structures and algorithms (DSA)?
To learn data structures and algorithms, you will need to learn a programming language and understand data structures and algorithms. Ultimately, you’ll need constant practice to become an expert.
How do I master DSA?
To become a DSA expert, the key is to practice problem-solving regularly and engage in crucial DSA-related work.
Where can I learn DSA for free?
You can learn DSA through online teaching platforms like Coursera and Udemy. There are many courses on these platforms that are entirely free.
How long does it take to learn DSA?
It will take about 4 – 8 months to master the essential skills of DSA. However, to fully master this field, you must put in more time and effort.
Final Thoughts
The Grokking Algorithms is the ideal book for programmers. Meanwhile, Data Structures & Algorithms Made Easy is a must-read for computer scientists.
Each book on the list above is ideal for a specific audience, so please consider carefully to make the most suitable choice.
Thank you for your interest in the article!