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CST370: Preparing for the Final: Algorithms in Practice

This week, I learned how several algorithms solve optimization and graph problems, including dynamic programming for the coin-collecting and coin-row problems, Floyd and Warshall algorithms for shortest paths and transitive closure, and Prim’s algorithm for minimum spanning trees. I practiced tracing tables step by step and understanding how intermediate states evolve, which helped me better connect the concepts across topics like sorting and greedy methods. I also started reviewing for the final exam by going through the review materials and key topics such as algorithm analysis, sorting, graph algorithms, and problem-solving strategies to reinforce my understanding and identify areas that need more practice. Additionally, I watched a video review of Dijkstra’s algorithm (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gd92jSu_cZk), which helped reinforce how to trace the algorithm step by step and understand how shortest paths are computed in practice.

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