Types of Searching Algorithm

1. Linear Search:

Linear Search is defined as a sequential search algorithm that starts at one end and goes through each element of a list until the desired element is found otherwise, the search continues till the end of the data set.

Key Points:

• Linear search, also known as sequential search, is a simple searching algorithm.
• It sequentially checks each element of the list until a match is found or the entire list has been searched.
• The Time Complexity of Linear search is O(n), where ‘n’ is the number of elements in the list.
• In the worst case, a linear search may have to scan the entire list.
• Linear search is efficient for small lists, but its efficiency decreases for larger lists.
• Linear search can be applied to any collection of elements that can be traversed sequentially, such as arrays or linked lists.

2. Binary Search:

Binary Search is defined as a searching algorithm used in a sorted array by repeatedly dividing the search interval in half. The idea of binary search is to use the information that the array is sorted and reduce the time complexity to O(log N). 

Key Points:

• Binary search is a divide-and-conquer algorithm used for searching in sorted lists.
• It repeatedly divides the search interval in half until the target element is found or the interval is empty.
• The list must be sorted for binary search to work effectively.
• Time Complexity of Binary Search is O(log n), where ‘n’ is the number of elements in the list.
• Binary search is more efficient than linear search for large, sorted datasets.
• Binary search is highly efficient, especially for large datasets, as it reduces the search space exponentially with each step.

Linear Search vs Binary Search:

As you gear up for the GATE Exam 2024, it’s time to dive into the world of searching and sorting algorithms. Think of these algorithms as the super-smart tools that help computers find stuff quickly and organize data neatly. These notes are here to guide you through the ins and outs of these algorithms, breaking down how they work, when to use them, and why they’re essential for acing the GATE exam.