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Introduction to DSA in Python

The document introduces Data Structures and Algorithms (DSA) in Python, emphasizing their importance for efficient problem-solving and optimized solutions. It covers key concepts such as complexity analysis, Big O notation, and basic Python data types essential for DSA. Additionally, it discusses recursion, highlighting its advantages and disadvantages in coding practices.

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3 views

Introduction to DSA in Python

The document introduces Data Structures and Algorithms (DSA) in Python, emphasizing their importance for efficient problem-solving and optimized solutions. It covers key concepts such as complexity analysis, Big O notation, and basic Python data types essential for DSA. Additionally, it discusses recursion, highlighting its advantages and disadvantages in coding practices.

Uploaded by

22bph016
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Introduction to DSA in Python

What is DSA?
Data Structures and Algorithms (DSA) are fundamental concepts in computer science, essential
for efficient problem-solving. Data structures organize data efficiently, while algorithms are
step-by-step methods for performing tasks or solving problems.

Why Learn DSA?

●​ Efficient data management​

●​ Optimized solutions​

●​ Building scalable applications​

Complexity Analysis
Analyzing the efficiency of algorithms is crucial for writing optimized code. The primary metrics
are:

●​ Time Complexity: How runtime grows with input size.​

●​ Space Complexity: How memory usage grows with input size.​

Big O Notation

Big O notation is used to express the upper bound of an algorithm's complexity. It helps
measure the worst-case scenario. Some common complexities are:

●​ O(1) - Constant time​

●​ O(n) - Linear time​

●​ O(log n) - Logarithmic time​

●​ O(n^2) - Quadratic time​


Python Basics for DSA
Before diving into DSA, it’s important to understand Python’s data types and structures:

●​ Lists: Dynamic arrays that can store mixed data types.​

●​ Dictionaries: Key-value pairs for quick lookups.​

●​ Sets: Unordered collections with unique elements.​

●​ Tuples: Immutable sequences.​

Recursion
Recursion is a technique where a function calls itself. It’s used for tasks that can be broken
down into similar subproblems.

Example:
def factorial(n):
if n == 0:
return 1
return n * factorial(n - 1)

Pros of Recursion:

●​ Elegant and simple code​

●​ Naturally handles problems like tree traversal​

Cons of Recursion:

●​ Can lead to stack overflow​

●​ May be less efficient than iterative solutions​

Conclusion
Mastering DSA with Python enhances your problem-solving skills and makes your code
efficient. In the next document, we will dive into linear data structures like arrays and lists.

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