Whether you’re a student, have an interview coming up, or you’re intellectually curious, data structures and algorithms books are a fantastic way to learn this useful area of computer science.
In general, data structures and algorithms allow software engineers to store and process data in a more efficient manner. This is essential when processing data at scale, as the right algorithm or data structure can generate significant memory and time savings (yes, we’re talking Big-O!).
Data structures and algorithms have also become a crucial part of the interviewing stages for most tech companies, especially FAANG. As a potential candidate for these coveted roles, the right books can help you prepare and excel in this process.
In this article, we’ll cover the 16 best data structures and algorithms books you must read in 2024 to learn these essential programming skills. So if you’re ready to find the best book for data structures and algorithms, let’s dive in!
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Featured Data Structures and Algorithms Books [Editor’s Picks] |
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Title: Data Structures and Algorithms Made Easy: Data Structure and Algorithms Puzzles
Author: Narasimha Karumanchi
Publisher: CareerMonk Publications
Pages: 426 |
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Title: Introduction to Algorithms
Authors: Thomas H. Cormen, Charles E. Leiserson, Ronald L. Rivest, Clifford Stein
Publisher: The MIT Press
Pages: 1292 |
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Title: Grokking Algorithms: An Illustrated Guide for Programmers and Other Curious People
Author: Aditya Bhargava
Publisher: Manning
Pages: 256 |
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Considering a career in data science? Check out:
16 Best Data Structures and Algorithms Books in 2024
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Book |
Summary |
Pages |
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Learn by solving common algorithm challenges. |
426 |
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Comprehensive guide to algorithms. |
1292 |
|
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Learn data structures and algorithms with illustrations. |
256 |
|
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Introductory textbook for CS students. |
478 |
|
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Learn the implementation of common algorithms. |
748 |
|
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Explains DSA with code in C, C++, Python, and Java. |
390 |
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Great choice for Java developers. |
800 |
|
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Suitable for advanced learners. |
474 |
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Problem-Solving with Algorithms and Data Structures using Python |
Great choice for Python developers. |
438 |
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Historical overview of algorithms. |
256 |
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Learn how computers use algorithms |
240 |
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Best DSA book for C++ developers. |
784 |
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Suitable for interview preparations. |
222 |
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DSA book with a companion website. |
976 |
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Learn principles and trade-offs of algorithm design. |
864 |
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Emphasis on the creative aspect of algorithm design. |
600 |
1. Data Structures and Algorithms Made Easy
Author: Narasimha Karumanchi
Publisher: CareerMonk Publications
Pages: 426
Why we chose this book
This algorithms and data structures book covers the fundamentals of data structures, and it also teaches readers how to write their own algorithmic solutions.
Some of the topics covered include algorithm design techniques, string algorithms, hashing, priority queues, heaps, and more. The code examples for this book are written in C language, which is fairly standard for algorithmic teaching.
Features
- Examples are written in C programming language
- Requires familiarity with basic Math
- Good material for interview prep
2. Introduction to Algorithms
Authors: Thomas H. Cormen, Charles E. Leiserson, Ronald L. Rivest, Clifford Stein
Publisher: The MIT Press
Pages: 1292
Why we chose this book
At more than 1,200 pages, this is one of the most comprehensive books about algorithms that covers the theory and practice of creating algorithms. Topics include heapsort, quicksort, graph algorithms, NP-completeness, and string matching.
To keep things easy to understand, examples are written in pseudocode, which is ideal as algorithms, by their nature, are instructions to be written in your language of choice.
Features
- Ideal textbook for Computer Science (CS) students
- Includes many exercises with solutions
- Not ideal for complete beginners
- Accompanied by online lectures from MIT
3. Grokking Algorithms
Author: Aditya Bhargava
Publisher: Manning
Pages: 256
Why we chose this book
As one of the best books for algorithms, this uses everyday life situations to explain common algorithm problems. You will learn Dijkstra’s algorithms, k-nearest neighbors, breadth-first search, and more.
with 400+ images, it’s a great choice for visual learners. It’s also really easy to read and relatively short compared to most books on Algorithms, meaning it’s arguably the best algorithm book for beginners.
Features
- Examples are accompanied by illustrations
- Great choice for beginners
- Python-based code samples
- Suitable for non-programmers
4. Introduction to Algorithms: A Creative Approach
Author: Udi Manber
Publisher: Addison-Wesley
Pages: 478
Why we chose this book
This comprehensive textbook covers a wide range of topics like search algorithms, sorting, and graph algorithms, making it one of the best algorithms books.
It also explains Big-O notation, algebraic and numeric algorithms, reductions, and parallel algorithms. You’ll also cover the creative aspect of algorithm design.
Features
- Exercises after each chapter
- Great resource for CS students
- Well-organized and easy-to-follow
5. The Algorithm Design Manual
Author: Steven S. Skiena
Publisher: Springer
Pages: 748
Why we chose this book
This is one of the best algorithm books out there. Made up of two parts, the first teaches you how to design and analyze algorithms, while the second contains an implementation of common algorithm problems.
With this book, you’ll cover binary search, weighted graph algorithms, transitive closure and reduction, range search, and more. This book also examines modern algorithms like computational geometry, multithreaded algorithms, and graph theory.
Features
- Great reference material for CS students
- Examples of real-life implementation
- Ideal for intermediate and advanced learners
- Code samples in C/C++
6. Algorithms in a Nutshell
Authors: George T. Heineman, Gary Pollice, Stanley Selkow
Publisher: O’Reilly Media
Pages: 390
Why we chose this book
This algorithms book takes readers on a journey through the development of algorithms like sequential search, binary search, and hashes. It also covers some advanced topics like the Jarvis March and RSA algorithm.
Uniquely, code samples in this book are provided in various programming languages, including Java, C, C++, and Python. You also get all of the implementation details for each of these languages.
Features
- Features many helpful diagrams
- Includes various languages, including pseudocode for examples
- Ideal for beginners and CS students
7. Data Structures and Algorithms in Java
Author: Robert Lafore
Publisher: Sams Publishing
Pages: 800
Why we chose this book
This book offers clear explanations and numerous code examples in Java, hence the name! If you’re already learning to program with Java and you’re looking for the best data structures book that also covers algorithms, this might be the one for you.
You’ll cover fundamental topics like arrays and strings and sorting algorithms like heap sort and merge sort. This book also examines useful data structures like hash tables, 2-3-4 trees, and more.
Features
- Assumes knowledge of Java
- Includes lots of diagrams
- Quizzes and experiments after each chapter
- Amazon Best Seller in “Data Structure and Algorithms”
8. Advanced Data Structures
Author: Peter Brass
Publisher: Columbia University Press
Pages: 474
Why we chose this book
This data structures book presents in-depth explanations of advanced data structures, including search trees, heaps, hash tables, union-find structures, and dynamization.
The author assumes familiarity with basic data structure concepts, so readers will find this book more helpful if they already have a basic understanding of data structures. If you feel this matches up with your skill level, this might be the best book on data structures.
Features
- Code samples in C
- 500+ references
- Suitable for advanced learners
9. Problem-Solving with Algorithms and Data Structures using Python
Authors: Bradley N. Miller, David L. Ranum
Publisher: Franklin, Beedle & Associates
Pages: 438
Why we chose this book
This Python book may be the best book on algorithms and data structures for Python users. It’s also a great way to learn the importance of these essential components of computer science, as it uses beginner-friendly explanations and exercises.
One of the best parts about this book is that the authors take the time to clearly explain some of the most important algorithms, like binary search, merge sort, and others.
You’ll also learn about essential data structures like stacks and queues, linked lists, and trees, including various associated methods' time and space complexity.
Features
- Great choice for beginners
- Algorithm implementations in Python
- Includes exercises to test your knowledge
10. Automate This: How Algorithms Came to Rule Our World
Author: Christopher Steiner
Publisher: Portfolio
Pages: 256
Why we chose this book
This unique book is less technical than the others in our list, as it aims to demystify algorithms. It also provides a historical overview of how algorithms have become part and parcel of modern society.
If you’re curious about technology and the history of how algorithms play a key role in our interaction with technology, this is a solid choice.
Features
- Ideal for beginners
- Suitable for non-programmers
- Commentary on the future of algorithms
11. Algorithms Unlocked
Author: Thomas H. Cormen
Publisher: The MIT Press
Pages: 240
Why we chose this book
This is a great book to learn the basics of algorithms, including how they work in the modern world.
As a relatively short read, this book strikes a balance between theory and technical details. It also covers the foundation of cryptography, data compression, and shortest path algorithms like Dijkstra’s algorithm and the Bellman-Ford algorithm.
Features
- Great for beginners and non-programmers
- Lessons on data compression
- Sections on cryptography
12. Data Structures and Algorithms in C++
Author: Adam Drozdek
Publisher: Cengage Learning
Pages: 784
Why we chose this book
This might be the best book for data structures and algorithms for beginner and intermediate C++ programmers who want to improve their understanding of these essential programming skills.
Expect to learn string-matching algorithms like the Boyer-Moore and Knuth-Morris-Pratt algorithms, along with popular sorting algorithms like shell sort, radix sort, and more. You’ll also learn about important data structures like trees, linked lists, stacks, and queues.
Features
- Lots of C++ code examples
- Variety of case studies
- Theoretical and practical quiz questions
13. Algorithms for Interviews
Author: Adnan Aziz, Amit Prakash
Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform
Pages: 222
Why we chose this book
This book is specially crafted to help software engineers prepare for interviews by helping you brush up on their algorithm knowledge.
It covers important topics like binary search, graph search, and more, alongside sorting algorithms like least distance sorting. You’ll also cover advanced topics like meta-algorithms, intractability, and parallel computing.
Features
- 174 algorithm design problems with solutions
- Interviewing techniques and tips
- Sections on system design
14. Algorithms
Authors: Robert Sedgewick, Kevin Wayne
Publisher: Addison-Wesley Professional
Pages: 976
Why we chose this book
If you’re looking for the best book for algorithms, this is one of the most popular for computer science students.
Like any good algorithms book, it covers mergesort, quicksort, and other sorting algorithms, alongside graph processing and searching algorithms. There are also sections on reductions, suffix arrays, intractability, and data compression
Features
- Has a companion website
- Code examples in Java
- Includes many exercises (with answers)
15. Algorithm Design
Authors: Jon Kleinberg, Éva Tardos
Publisher: Pearson
Pages: 864
Why we chose this book
This is often recommended as a textbook for college students as it provides a solid foundation on the principles and trade-offs of algorithm design and analysis.
Expect to learn the basics of algorithm analysis and advanced topics like greedy algorithms, dynamic programming, graph algorithms, randomized algorithms, and more.
Features
- Case studies to illustrate key concepts
- Exercises to test your knowledge
- Section on the theory of NP-completeness
16. Introduction to the Design and Analysis of Algorithms
Author: Anany Levitin
Publisher: Pearson
Pages: 600
Why we chose this book
This textbook takes a puzzle-solving approach to teaching algorithms, which is a fantastic way to conceptually understand how algorithms work.
It’s also relatively comprehensive, as it covers topics like algorithm efficiency, limitations of algorithm power, and the trade-offs between space and time complexity. You’ll also dive into decrease-and-conquer, divide-and-conquer, and transform-and-conquer techniques for solving algorithmic problems.
Features
- Puzzle-solving approach to teaching algorithms
- Clear explanations and examples
- Exercises with detailed solutions
Conclusion
Data structures and algorithms are the cornerstones of computer science, and as a programmer, it’s important to have a solid understanding of these concepts. Knowing which data structure or algorithm best suits common problems can help you create better code with more efficient solutions.
This article has covered the 16 best data structures and algorithms books you need to read in 2024 to learn about this essential discipline. We’ve also taken care to include books for beginners, advanced learners, and even non-programmers, so there’s definitely something for you on our list.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why Should I Study Data Structure and Algorithms?
Learning data structures and algorithms is essential if you want to pursue a career involving programming, as it will help you write code that is efficient and optimized. This area has also become a key component of technical interviews for most tech companies, so it’s a great way to be prepared for these scenarios.
2. How Do I Study Data Structure and Algorithms?
The best way is to start with a book for beginners, which will help you get up to speed with the basics. Most of the books we’ve listed in this article are beginner-friendly, so any of these will be a great start.
