How to Think about Algorithms

Understand algorithms and their design with this revised student-friendly textbook. Unlike other algorithms books, this one is approachable, the methods it explains are straightforward, and the insights it provides are numerous and valuable. Without grinding through lots of formal proof, students will benefit from step-by-step methods for developing algorithms, expert guidance on common pitfalls, and an appreciation of the bigger picture. Revised and updated, this second edition includes a new chapter on machine learning algorithms, and concise key concept summaries at the end of each part for quick reference. Also new to this edition are more than 150 new exercises: selected solutions are included to let students check their progress, while a full solutions manual is available online for instructors. No other text explains complex topics such as loop invariants as clearly, helping students to think abstractly and preparing them for creating their own innovative ways to solve problems.

Jeff Edmonds is Professor in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at York University, Canada.