Data Structures - PROBLEM SOLVING

1.Explain top-down design in detail? 

• Definition
• Breaking a problem in to subproblems
• Choice of a suitable data structure
• Constructions of loops
• Establishing initial conditions for loops
• Finding the iterative construct
• Terminations of loops


2. What are the steps taken to improve the efficiency of an algorithm? 
• Definition
• Redundant computations
• Referencing array elements
• Inefficiency due to late termination
• Early detection of desired output conditions
• Trading storage for efficiency gains

3. Design an algorithm fro sine function computation. Explain it with an example? 
• Algorithm development
• Algorithm description
• Pascal implementation
• Application

4. Design an algorithm for reversing the digit of an integer. Explain it with an example? 
• Algorithm development
• Algorithm description
• Pascal implementation
• Application

5. Design an algorithm for base conversion. Explain it with an example? 
• Algorithm development
• Algorithm description
• Pascal implementation
• Application 

PROBLEM SOLVING - Data Structures

1. What are the features of an efficient algorithm? 
Free of ambiguity
Efficient in execution time
Concise and compact
Completeness
Definiteness
Finiteness

2. List down any four applications of data structures? 
Compiler design
Operating System
Database Management system
Network analysis

3. What is binary doubling strategy? 
The reverse of binary doubling strategy, i.e. combining small problems in to one is known as binary doubling strategy. This strategy is used to avoid the generation of intermediate results.

4. Where is dynamic programming used? 
Dynamic programming is used when the problem is to be solved in a sequence of intermediate steps. It is particularly relevant for many optimization problems, i.e. frequently encountered in Operations research.


5. Define top-down design? 
Top-down design is a strategy that can be applied to find a solution to a problem from a vague outline to precisely define the algorithm and program implementation by stepwise refinement.

Data Structures - Problem Solving

1.Write down the definition of data structures? 


A data structure is a mathematical or logical way of organizing data in the memory that consider not only the items stored but also the relationship to each other and also it is characterized by accessing functions.

2.What is meant by problem solving? 

Problem solving is a creative process, which needs systemization and mechanization.

3. Give few examples for data structures? 
Stacks, Queue, Linked list, Trees, graphs

4. What is problem definition phase? 
The first step in solving a problem is to understand problem clearly. Hence, the first phase is the problem definition phase. That is, to extract the task from the problem statement. If the problem is not understood, then the solution will not be correct and it may result in wastage of time and effort.

5. Define Algorithm? 
Algorithm is a solution to a problem independent of programming language. It consist of set of finite steps which, when carried out for a given set of inputs, produce the corresponding output and terminate in a finite time.

PROBLEM SOLVING

1. Explain the steps involved in developing a program with neat diagram? (FEB2009)
(or)
Brief about planning the computer program?

The Programming Process – Purpose
1. Understand the problem
v Read the problem statement
v Question users
v Inputs required
v Outputs required
v Special formulas
v Talk to users
2. Plan the logic
(a) Visual Design Tools
v Input record chart
v Printer spacing chart
v Hierarchy chart
v Flowchart

(b) Verbal Design Tools
v Narrative Description
v Pseudocode
3. Code the program
v Select an appropriate programming language
v Convert flowchart and/or Pseudocode instructions into programming language statements
4. Test the program
1. Syntax errors
2. Runtime errors
3. Logic errors
4. Test Data Set
5. Implement the program
Buy hardware Publish software Train users
6. Maintain the program
Maintenance programmers
Legacy systems
Up to 85% of IT department budget