Heaps & Priority Structures

Module Contents

  1. Introduction to Heaps

Understand the Binary Heap data structure. Learn how to map a Tree to an Array and master Sift Up/Down.

  1. Heapify & Heap Sort

Why build a Heap in O(N)? Learn the Sift Down optimization and Heap Sort algorithm.

  1. Priority Queues & Top K

Solve Top K Elements. Use Priority Queues for Task Scheduling. Learn the pattern.

  1. Median Maintenance

Solve the Median from Data Stream problem. Use the Two Heaps pattern to find the median in O(1).

  1. Dijkstra’s Algorithm

Master Dijkstra’s Shortest Path Algorithm. Understand how a Priority Queue makes graph traversal efficient.

  1. Memory Management

Staff Level: How malloc uses Heaps. Understanding the Free List, Fragmentation, and the Buddy System.

  1. Module Review: Heaps

Review Binary Heaps, Priority Queues, Heap Sort, and Dijkstra. Flashcards and Cheat Sheet.

Heaps & Priority Structures

[!NOTE] This module explores the core principles of Heaps & Priority Structures, deriving solutions from first principles and hardware constraints to build world-class, production-ready expertise.

1. Practice

[!NOTE] Looking for hands-on algorithmic exercises? We have migrated all coding challenges for this module into the Problem Vault to give you a centralized, focused practice environment.

Module Chapters