Data Structures: Stacks and Queues in C++
Stacks and Queues are the foundational building blocks of algorithmic efficiency. They provide deterministic ways to manage data flow: Stacks follow the LIFO (Last In, First Out) principle, while Queues operate on FIFO (First In, First Out). Mastery of these structures in C++ is critical for memory management, task scheduling, and compiler design.
In this module, you will transition from basic array-based containers to advanced computational simulations, such as Reverse Polish Notation (RPN) and circular memory buffers.
Core Technical Domains
- LIFO logic: Push, Pop, and Peek.
- FIFO logic: Enqueue and Dequeue.
- Parsing: Infix to Postfix conversion.
- Circular Buffers: Memory optimization.
- Simulation: Scheduling & Spooling.
- Stack Recursion: Iterative factorials.
Data Structures Challenges
| Data Structure Challenge | Implementation Objective |
|---|---|
| Basic Stack (LIFO) | Build a stack from scratch using static or dynamic arrays to master Push/Pop mechanics. |
| Basic Queue (FIFO) | Implement a linear buffer to process data in strict arrival order. |
| Infix to Postfix | Utilize a stack to convert mathematical notations into machine-readable postfix strings. |
| Balanced Parentheses | Develop a syntax validator using stack-based character matching logic. |
| Print Queue Simulation | Model real-world spooling systems where print jobs are handled sequentially. |
| Evaluate Postfix | Calculate numerical results from RPN notation using an intermediate stack. |
| Circular Queue | Optimize memory usage by implementing a wrap-around buffer logic. |
| Logical Expressions | Process complex Boolean operations (AND, OR, NOT) via stack traversal. |
| Bank Queue System | Design a customer flow model with arrival timestamps and service logic. |
| Factorial via Stack | Simulate recursion using an explicit stack to manage memory and states. |
Linear Data Structures & Logic