Explain data structure fundamentals
Overview
This question evaluates understanding of data structure fundamentals, specifically hash map internals (hashing, collision resolution strategies, load factor, and resizing), time complexity analysis for search/insert/delete, contrasts between arrays and linked lists for random access and insertion, and typical use cases and complexities for stacks versus queues. It is commonly asked in technical interviews to assess algorithmic thinking and the ability to reason about performance trade-offs and appropriate data structure selection; domain: Coding & Algorithms; level: tests both conceptual understanding and practical application.
Explain how a hash map works internally: hashing, collision resolution strategies (separate chaining vs. open addressing), load factor, and resizing. Provide average‑ and worst‑case time complexities for search, insert, and delete. Contrast arrays and linked lists for random access and insertion; give typical use cases for a stack versus a queue and their time complexities.