Lecture Data Structures and Algorithms - Chapter 3: Stack

In the realm of computer science, the effective organization and manipulation of data are paramount for developing efficient and robust software systems. This document delves into the fundamental concepts of Data Structures and Algorithms, specifically focusing on stacks. Understanding stacks is crucial as they serve as a building block for numerous advanced algorithms and computational processes. This material aims to provide a clear and comprehensive overview of stack principles, their basic operations, and practical C++ Implementation, laying a solid foundation for students and developers alike.

Sinh viên ngành Khoa học Máy tính và Kỹ thuật Phần mềm, lập trình viên, và các nhà nghiên cứu quan tâm đến cấu trúc dữ liệu và giải thuật.

This academic material offers a detailed examination of Stacks, an essential component within the curriculum of Data Structures and Algorithms. It initiates by delineating the fundamental differences between general linear lists, which allow unrestricted data access, and restricted lists, emphasizing the unique characteristics of stacks. A stack is rigorously defined as a Last-In First-Out (LIFO) data structure, a principle dictating that all data insertions and deletions are strictly confined to a single designated point, referred to as the 'top'. The document thoroughly illustrates the core functionalities through its discussion of Basic Stack Operations, which encompass 'Push' for adding new elements, 'Pop' for retrieving and removing the topmost element, and the crucial error handling mechanisms of 'Overflow' (when pushing to a full stack) and 'Underflow' (when popping from an empty stack). Additionally, it provides insights into how to efficiently determine the 'Stack Top' without removal. Crucially, the material extends beyond theoretical concepts to cover practical implementation methodologies, explicitly detailing both the Linked-list implementation and Array implementation approaches. The emphasis on C++ Implementation underscores the document's utility, equipping students and practitioners with the necessary tools to translate abstract data structure concepts into functional code. This comprehensive treatment of stacks is fundamental for developing robust software solutions, optimizing algorithmic performance, and fostering a deeper understanding of computational problem-solving.