Before you mark this is a duplicate, let me explain why this is different. Most of the books on algorithms are more of a reference. You basically have a list of algorithms at your disposal. But what happens when you need to create a new algorithm for something? These books don't teach how to think in terms of algorithms. So I'm looking for books that will teach me the thinking-process of creating algorithms. Any good suggestions?
But to be frank. Its too boring to read. :(
claws
2010-02-15 11:53:08
Funny, I've never found a single page to be boring. Many pages are difficult and challenging, but never boring, not if you like learning about algorithms and how to write them. In fact, 30 years later, it is still the most interesting computer books I have ever read.
RBarryYoung
2010-04-10 20:09:05
+6
A:
My way favorite book along these lines is Udi Manber's Introduction to Algorithms: a creative approach. Of course I'm biased, since Udi's now a VP at Google, where I work, but I loved the book even when he was at competitors;-). Dated, but always in print and in fact in stock at Amazon, the book is exactly what you're looking for -- it teaches the way to think to create algorithms!
It uses a pseudo-language that's close to Pascal (the favorite teaching language at the time it was written) but in fact about as close to Python (which hadn't even been invented back then;-). And, mostly, it uses clear, sharp, concise, wonderfully written English -- just like any (English-language;-) book should.
Alex Martelli
2010-02-13 06:41:04
Excuse me for the offtopic post...but how can I found thw books that are sponsored by stackoverflow and have some discount.E.g the above link is http://rads.stackoverflow.com/amzn/click/0201120372 and redirects me to amazon.Is there any way to see the "list"?Thanks in advance.
DarkFire21
2010-02-14 12:04:10
@DarkFire, try asking on meta.stackoverflow.com -- looks like the right site for that.
Alex Martelli
2010-02-14 17:18:41
I'm also insearch of such book. Well, I'm starting reading it. I'll get back to this topic and comment my views on this book. :)
claws
2010-02-15 11:58:07
You misunderstood me Alex.I mean, how did you find the sponsored link of the book?:)
DarkFire21
2010-02-15 12:07:09
@DarkFire, I just pasted a normal link and SO's magic transformed it into a sponsored one -- I thought you wondered what technique SO uses to perform that magic and meta would be the right place to ask.
Alex Martelli
2010-02-15 16:26:47
A:
Elements of Programming by Alexander Stepanov is amazing, but not an easy read.
Mihaela
2010-02-15 11:18:10
+3
A:
Programming Pearls by Jon Bentley (2nd ed.) - this should be in every serious programmer's "top 10" books list.
Paul R
2010-02-15 11:25:08
Best second choice, IMHO. Though, I've always thought of Knuth's "Art" as the serious choice, and Bentley's "Pearls" as the more recreational choice.
RBarryYoung
2010-04-10 20:11:30
A:
I always recommend "Artificial Intelligence: A Modern Approach" by Russel and Norvig as a good way to learn programming and (non-traditional) algorithms.
Amit Kumar
2010-02-15 11:27:24
+2
A:
"The Algorithm Design Manual" by Steven Skiena. I couldn't stop thinking in algorithms about everything for a few months after reading it. I even invented a new algorithm myself, although later it occurred to be "quickselect"...
Headcrab
2010-02-15 11:36:13
I'm starting reading it. I'll get back to this topic and comment my views on this book. :)
claws
2010-02-23 05:58:54