Algorithms, data structures, and problem solving with C++ Book review

Mark Allen Weiss is a Distinguished University Professor of Computer Science and Associate Dean for Undergraduate Education in the College of Engineering and Computing at Florida International University in Miami Florida. He also served as Founding Director of the School of Universal Computing, Construction, and Engineering EDucation (SUCCEED) having previously served for nine years as Associate Director of the School of Computing and Information Sciences.
He received his Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering from The Cooper Union in 1983, and his Ph.D. in Computer Science from Princeton University in 1987, working under Bob Sedgewick. He has been at FIU since 1987, and was promoted to Professor in 1996. His interests include data structures, algorithms, and education, and he is most well-known for his highly-acclaimed sole-authored Data Structures textbooks, which are among the most-widely used in computer science. From 1997-2004 he served as a member of the Advanced Placement Computer Science Development Committee, chairing the committee from 2000-2004.  Dr. Weiss is an IEEE Fellow, AAAS Fellow, and ACM Distinguished Educator. He is the recipient of the 2015 SIGCSE Award for Outstanding Contribution to Computer Science Education, the 2017 IEEE Computer Society Taylor Booth Education Award, the 2018 IEEE Education Society William Sayle Achievement in Education Award, and the 2021 ACM Karl V. Karlstrom Outstanding Educator Award.

Algorithms, data structures, and problem solving with C++ book review by Mark Allen Weiss

This book authored by Mark Allen Weiss, stands out as the first CS2 textbook to distinctly separate the interface and implementation of data structures. This innovative approach presents the interface and running time of data structures upfront, allowing students to apply these structures in various practical examples before delving into their implementations. This method significantly enhances students' ability to think abstractly.

Key Features:

• Emphasis on Data Structures and Algorithm Design: The book uses C++ as the implementation language while maintaining a strong focus on data structures and algorithm design.
• Abstraction Reinforcement: Interface and implementations of data structures are discussed separately, reinforcing abstract thinking.
• Incorporation of Case Studies: Practical examples, such as expression evaluation, cross-reference generation, and shortest path calculations, are used to illustrate concepts.
• Early Introduction to Time Complexity: A comprehensive discussion of time complexity and Big-Oh notation is provided early in the text.
• Instructor Flexibility: The book offers instructors flexibility in balancing practice, theory, and the level of C++ detail.
• Optional Advanced Material: Part V contains advanced material for those who wish to explore further.
• Coverage of Fundamental C++ Concepts: Classes, templates, and inheritance are covered as fundamental concepts in sophisticated C++ programs.
• Fully Functional and Tested Code: The book includes fully functional code tested on g++2.6.2, Sun 3.0.1, and Borland 4.5 compilers. This code is integrated into the book and also available via FTP.
• Supportive Learning Tools: End-of-chapter glossaries, summaries of common errors, and a variety of exercises help reinforce learning.

Weiss's textbook provides a comprehensive and structured approach to mastering algorithms, data structures, and problem-solving using C++, making it an invaluable resource for students and educators alike.