Project Name: Path Visualizer

Technologies Used: VS Code, HTML, CSS, ReactJS

Project Overview

The Path Visualizer is a web-based application designed to provide a clear, interactive

visualization of Dijkstra’s Algorithm, a popular algorithm in graph theory for finding the
shortest path between nodes in a graph. The primary goal of this project is to make it easier
for users to understand how Dijkstra’s Algorithm works by visualizing its execution step-by-
step.

Key Features

1. Graph Visualization
o Interactive Graph Interface: Users can create and manipulate a graph by
adding nodes and edges directly on the screen. The graph’s nodes are
represented as circles, and edges are lines connecting these nodes.
o Edge Weights: Users can assign weights to edges, which represent the cost or
distance between nodes. These weights are crucial for Dijkstra’s Algorithm to
determine the shortest path.
2. Dijkstra’s Algorithm Visualization
o Step-by-Step Execution: The application visually demonstrates the process of
Dijkstra’s Algorithm as it computes the shortest path from a selected source
node to all other nodes in the graph.
o Traversal Order: The algorithm's progress is shown through color-coded
nodes and edges, highlighting the order in which nodes are visited and the
paths considered.
3. User Interaction
o Dynamic Graph Customization: Users can interact with the graph by adding
new nodes, connecting nodes with edges, and modifying edge weights. This
allows users to experiment with different graph configurations and see how
Dijkstra’s Algorithm handles various scenarios.
o Algorithm Execution Controls: Users can select a source node and initiate
the algorithm. The interface provides controls to start, pause, and step through
the algorithm’s execution, making it easier to follow along.
4. Educational Tool
o Intuitive Learning: The Path Visualizer serves as an educational tool, helping
students and enthusiasts understand the inner workings of Dijkstra’s
Algorithm by providing a visual representation of its execution. This hands-on
approach makes abstract concepts more tangible.

Technical Implementation
 1. Frontend Development with ReactJS
o React Components: The user interface is built using ReactJS, with various
components handling different aspects of the application. Components include
the graph canvas, node and edge controls, and algorithm visualization
controls.
o State Management: React’s state management is used to keep track of the
graph’s structure, edge weights, and algorithm progress. This ensures that the
interface updates dynamically as users interact with the graph and as the
algorithm runs.
2. Graph Rendering
o SVG for Graphics: Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG) is used to render the
graph’s nodes and edges. SVG’s scalability ensures that the graph is displayed
clearly at any zoom level or screen size.
o Interactive Elements: Nodes and edges are rendered as interactive SVG
elements, allowing users to click and drag nodes, input edge weights, and
initiate algorithm execution.
3. Algorithm Visualization
o Animation and Highlighting: The visualization of Dijkstra’s Algorithm
includes animations that illustrate the algorithm’s steps. Nodes and edges are
highlighted to show the current state of the algorithm, such as the nodes being
processed and the shortest path found so far.
o Dynamic Updates: As the algorithm progresses, the graph is updated in real-
time to reflect the changes in node distances and pathfinding.
4. Styling with CSS
o Responsive Design: CSS is used to style the application, ensuring that it is
visually appealing and responsive. This includes styling for the graph, buttons,
and other UI elements to provide a user-friendly experience.
5. Development Environment
o VS Code: The development environment used is Visual Studio Code (VS
Code), which provides a robust set of tools for coding, debugging, and
managing the project. VS Code’s extensions for ReactJS and web
development enhance productivity and streamline the development process.

Project Benefits and Impact

1. Enhanced Understanding:
o Visual Learning: The Path Visualizer makes it easier to grasp complex
algorithmic concepts by providing a visual representation of how Dijkstra’s
Algorithm works. This approach caters to visual learners and helps in better
comprehension of the algorithm’s mechanics.
2. Interactive Experimentation:
o Customizable Graphs: Users can experiment with different graph
configurations and edge weights to see how the algorithm adapts to various
scenarios. This hands-on experimentation helps in reinforcing theoretical
knowledge.
3. Educational Value:
 o Teaching Tool: The application is a valuable tool for educators teaching
graph theory and algorithms. It provides a practical way to demonstrate
algorithmic concepts in a classroom or tutorial setting.

Conclusion

The Path Visualizer project demonstrates a practical application of web technologies to solve
an educational problem. By visualizing Dijkstra’s Algorithm, it provides a clear, interactive
way to understand shortest path computations in graphs. The use of ReactJS, HTML, CSS,
and SVG ensures a responsive and engaging user experience, making the abstract concept of
graph traversal more accessible and understandable.

GitHub Repository: Dijkstra-Visualizer

Why React js ?
 Easy to Build and Manage:

 Components: React allows you to break the application into smaller, reusable parts
called components. For example, one component can be for drawing the graph,
another for handling user interactions, and so on. This makes the code easier to
manage and update.

 Fast Updates:

 Virtual DOM: React uses something called a Virtual DOM, which helps update the
screen quickly and efficiently. So, when you interact with the graph or run the
algorithm, the changes appear smoothly and without delays.

 Interactive Features: