Data Structures-Introduction

Introduction to Data Structure

Data structure can be defined as a group of data elements that helps store and organize data in the computer so as to use it efficiently. 

Some examples of the data structure are:

1. Arrays
2. Stack
3. Queue
4. Linked List

It is the main part of computer algorithms as it helps programmers handle the data efficiently. 

Basic Terminology: 

• Data 

It is defined as an elementary value or a collection of values.

• Group items

Data items having subordinate data are known as group items.

• File

It is a collection of various records of the same type of entity.

• Record

It is a collection of various records.

• Field

It is a single elementary unit of information.

• Attribute

It represents a single property of the entity.

• Entity

It represents a class of certain objects.

Need of data structure:

1. It is needed for high-speed processing while handling huge amounts of data.
2. It is needed for data search.
3. It helps organize the data and hence handles multiple requests. 

Classification of data structures:

The data structures can be classified into:

1. Linear Data Structure
2. Non-Linear Data Structure
3. Arrays
4. Linked Lists
5. Stack
6. Queue

Operations on data structure:

1. Traversing
2. Sorting
3. Searching
4. Merging
5. Deletion
6. Insertion

Reference

Introduction to Data Structure