Big O Notation
Master the universal language of algorithm efficiency. Learn Big O notation to communicate performance characteristics and make data-driven decisions about code optimization.
Overview
In this lesson, you'll master Big O notation, the mathematical language used to describe algorithm efficiency. We'll explore common complexity classes (O(1), O(n), O(log n), O(n²)), learn to analyze code for Big O complexity, and understand how to use this knowledge for optimization decisions.
Big O notation provides a standardized way to discuss algorithm performance that transcends specific implementations or hardware. It's the common language that allows developers worldwide to communicate about efficiency and make informed architectural decisions.
Key concepts you'll master:
- Understanding Big O notation and its mathematical foundation
- Recognizing common complexity classes and their characteristics
- Analyzing code to determine Big O complexity
- Comparing algorithms using Big O analysis
- Making optimization decisions based on complexity analysis
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