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Data Structures for Coding Interviews in C++

The ultimate guide to data structures for coding interviews. Developed by FAANG engineers. Get interview-ready in hours with C++ implementations and real-world interview questions. Prep faster.

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Overview

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Data structures are amongst the very fundamentals of Computer Science and are often a core decision in developing efficient programs. Consequently, they are also largely categorized as a vital benchmark of computer science knowledge when it comes to industry interviews. This course contains a detailed review of all the common data structures and provides implementation level details in C++ to allow readers to become well equipped with all the different data structures they can leverage to write better code!

Data structures are amongst the very fundamentals of Computer Science and are often a core decision in developing efficient prog...Show More

Content

228 Lessons23 Quizzes65 Challenges

Introduction to Complexity Measures

22 Lessons

Step through complexity measures, comparing algorithms, incorporating Big O notation, and analyzing nested loops.

Comparing Algorithms

Example: Measuring Time Complexity of a Single Loop Algorithm

Example: Time Complexity of an Algorithm With Nested Loops

Introduction to Asymptotic Analysis and Big O

Other Common Asymptotic Notations and Why Big O Trumps Them

Useful Formulae

Common Complexity Scenarios

Challenge: Big (O) of Nested Loop with Addition

Solution: Big (O) of Nested Loop with Addition

Challenge: Big (O) of Nested Loop with Subtraction

Solution: Big (O) of Nested Loop with Subtraction

Challenge: Big (O) of Nested Loop with Multiplication

Solution: Big (O) of Nested Loop with Multiplication

Challenge: Nested Loop with Multiplication (Basic)

Solution: Nested Loop with Multiplication (Basic)

Challenge: Nested Loop with Multiplication (Intermediate)

Solution: Nested Loop with Multiplication (Intermediate)

Challenge: Nested Loop with Multiplication (Advanced)

Solution: Nested Loop with Multiplication (Advanced)

Challenge: Nested Loop with Multiplication (Pro)

Solution: Nested Loop with Multiplication (Pro)

Complexity Quiz: Test Your Understanding of Complexity

Introduction to Arrays

26 Lessons

Look at arrays, vectors, and multidimensional arrays; solve coding challenges with essential solutions.

What is an Array?

Multidimensional Arrays

What Is a Vector?

Challenge: Remove Even Integers From Array

Solution: Remove Even Integers From Array

Challenge: Merge Two Sorted Arrays

Solution: Merge Two Sorted Arrays

Challenge: Find Two Numbers That Add Up to K

Solution: Find Two Numbers That Add Up to K

Challenge: Product of Array Except Self

Solution: Product of Array Except Self

Challenge: Find Minimum Value in Array

Solution: Find Minimum Value in Array

Challenge: First Non-Repeating Integer in an Array

Solution: First Non-Repeating Integer in an Array

Challenge: Find Second Maximum Value in an Array

Solution: Find Second Maximum Value in an Array

Challenge: Rotate Array

Solution: Rotate Array

Challenge: Rearrange Positive & Negative Values

Solution: Rearrange Positive & Negative Values

Challenge: Rearrange Sorted Array in Max/Min Form

Solution: Rearrange Sorted Array in Max/Min Form

Challenge: Maximum Subarray

Solution: Maximum Subarray

Arrays Quiz: Test Your Understanding of Arrays

Introduction to Linked Lists

30 Lessons

Work your way through Singly and Doubly Linked Lists structure, operations, and coding challenges.

Introduction to Stack/Queues

25 Lessons

Grasp the fundamentals of stacks and queues, along with their applications and challenges.

Introduction to Graphs

26 Lessons

Dig into graph concepts, types, representations, implementations, complexities, traversal, and problem-solving.

Introduction to Trees

38 Lessons

Explore tree structures, including their properties, types, and specific operations in C++.

Trie

14 Lessons

Build on trie structures for efficient string management and advanced word search applications.

Introduction to Heap

12 Lessons

Learn how to use heaps for efficient sorting, priority queues, and element retrieval.

Introduction to Hashing

33 Lessons

Discover the logic behind hash table fundamentals, applications, and comparisons with other structures.

10.

Summary of Data Structures

2 Lessons

Examine the key differences and performance metrics of linear and non-linear data structures.

Data Structures

Mock Interview

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Certificate of Completion

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Course Author:

Coderust

Developed by MAANG Engineers

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Personalized Interview Prep

Skip the LeetCode grind with a custom roadmap that adapts to your goals. Hands-on practice for Coding Interviews, System Design, and more.

Mock Interviews

Test your skills in a simulated interview setting. Receive personalized feedback based on your performance. Available for Coding Interviews, System Design, and more.

AI Prompt

Build prompt engineering skills. Practice implementing AI-informed solutions.

Code Feedback

Evaluate and debug your code with the click of a button. Get real-time feedback on test cases, including time and space complexity of your solutions.

Explain with AI

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AI Code Mentor

AI Code Mentor helps you quickly identify errors in your code, learn from your mistakes, and nudge you in the right direction — just like a 1:1 tutor!

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Free Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the data structures of C++ programming?

C++ provides several fundamental data structures, both built-in and through its Standard Template Library (STL). The built-in data structures include arrays and pointers for simple, contiguous memory storage. The STL offers more advanced structures like vector (dynamic array), list (doubly linked list), deque (double-ended queue), stack (LIFO stack), queue (FIFO queue), priority_queue (heap), set (ordered collection of unique elements), map (key-value pairs), unordered_set, and unordered_map (hash-based structures). These data structures are optimized for different types of operations, such as fast access, insertion, or deletion, making C++ versatile for various programming needs.

Can I use C++ for coding interviews?

Yes, C++ is an excellent choice for coding interviews. It offers powerful features like manual memory management, object-oriented programming, and access to a rich Standard Template Library (STL) that provides efficient data structures and algorithms. C++ allows fine-grained control over performance, making it suitable for solving complex problems efficiently. Its syntax is well-known to most interviewers, and using C++ demonstrates a strong understanding of low-level programming concepts, which is valuable in many technical interviews.

How to study for a C++ interview

To study for a C++ interview, master core C++ concepts like pointers, memory management, object-oriented programming, and the Standard Template Library (STL). Practice solving common coding problems using STL data structures (vector, list, map, etc.) and algorithms to understand their complexities and use cases. Review key C++ features such as operator overloading, inheritance, polymorphism, and templates. Additionally, get comfortable writing clean, efficient code and explaining your approach clearly. Regular practice on platforms like LeetCode or Codeforces will help reinforce these skills and improve problem-solving speed.

Are C++ coders in demand?

Yes, C++ coders are in high demand, especially in game development, finance, embedded systems, and high-performance computing. C++ is valued for its speed, efficiency, and control over system resources, making it ideal for applications where performance is critical. Many companies seek C++ developers for roles that require low-level programming, real-time processing, and software that interacts closely with hardware. Its versatility and efficiency ensure that C++ remains a popular language in various tech sectors.

How many hours a day should I study C++?

The number of hours you should study C++ daily depends on your goals, current proficiency, and schedule. Generally, dedicating 1 to 2 hours of focused study daily is effective for consistent progress, allowing time to grasp new concepts, practice coding problems, and reinforce learning. If you have more time, you can extend this to 3 to 4 hours, but balance study with breaks to avoid burnout. Consistency is key, so aim for regular, manageable sessions that fit your routine.

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