Elements of Programming (2009) by Alexander Stepanov and Paul McJones provides a foundational approach to programming by emphasizing abstract concepts and mathematical rigor. The book develops fundamental algorithms and data structures from first principles, focusing on clear reasoning and formal specifications. It uses abstract data types and generic programming techniques to achieve code that is both efficient and reusable across different programming languages and paradigms. The book aims to teach readers how to think about programming at a deeper level, enabling them to design and implement robust and adaptable software. While rooted in practical application, its focus is on the underlying theoretical framework that informs good programming practices.
The webpage for Elements of Programming Interviews (EPI), published in 2009, primarily serves as a landing page for the book of the same name, focusing on interview preparation for software engineering roles. It highlights the book's comprehensive approach to mastering fundamental data structures, algorithms, and problem-solving techniques essential for success in technical interviews.
The page emphasizes the rigorous nature of the content, describing the book as a collection of 250 problems spanning various domains within computer science, including arrays, strings, linked lists, trees, graphs, sorting, searching, dynamic programming, recursion, and concurrency. Each problem, according to the description, is accompanied by a detailed solution, offering not only the correct answer but also a thorough explanation of the underlying logic and reasoning. The solutions, it states, are meticulously crafted to demonstrate optimal coding practices and efficient implementations.
The book's target audience is explicitly identified as software engineers preparing for interviews at prominent technology companies. It promises to equip candidates with the necessary skills and knowledge to confidently tackle complex technical challenges commonly encountered in these interview settings. The authors claim to have drawn upon their extensive experience in conducting and participating in technical interviews to curate a relevant and practical set of problems.
The webpage also showcases testimonials from individuals who have purportedly benefited from using the book. These testimonials generally praise the book's depth of coverage, clarity of explanations, and effectiveness in improving interview performance.
Finally, the page provides information on how to acquire the book. It lists options for purchasing both physical copies and electronic versions from various online retailers. Overall, the webpage serves as a concise and informative introduction to the Elements of Programming Interviews, positioning it as a valuable resource for aspiring software engineers seeking to excel in the competitive landscape of technical interviews.
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https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43015975
Hacker News users discuss the density and difficulty of Elements of Programming, acknowledging its academic rigor and focus on foundational concepts. Several commenters point out that the book isn't for beginners and requires significant mathematical maturity. The book's use of abstract algebra and its emphasis on generic programming are highlighted, with some finding it insightful and others overwhelming. The discussion also touches on the impracticality of some of the examples for real-world coding and the lack of readily available implementations in popular languages. Some suggest alternative resources for learning practical programming, while others defend the book's value for building a deeper understanding of fundamental principles. A recurring theme is the contrast between the book's theoretical approach and the practical needs of most programmers.
The Hacker News post titled "Elements of Programming (2009)" has several comments discussing the book and its merits. A common theme is the acknowledgment of the book's challenging nature, with many users describing it as dense, rigorous, and requiring significant mathematical maturity.
Several commenters praise the book for its deep dive into fundamental programming concepts and its focus on abstract algebra and mathematical rigor. They appreciate its approach of building up programming concepts from foundational mathematical principles, finding it enlightening and intellectually stimulating. One user highlights how the book helped them understand the underlying mathematical reasons behind certain programming practices. Another commenter notes its value in teaching how to reason about programs formally, a skill they found lacking in other resources. The book is often compared to classics like "Structure and Interpretation of Computer Programs" (SICP), with some arguing it delves even deeper into the theoretical foundations.
However, the difficulty of the book is also a recurring point of discussion. Many acknowledge that it requires a strong background in mathematics, particularly abstract algebra, to fully grasp. Some users suggest that without sufficient preparation, the book can be overwhelming and difficult to follow. One commenter describes it as "extremely dense" and advises potential readers to be prepared for a serious undertaking. Another recommends working through the exercises diligently, highlighting their importance for understanding the material.
Some users offer advice on how to approach the book. One suggestion is to start with SICP as a gentler introduction to similar concepts. Others recommend supplementing the book with additional resources like online lectures or forums.
A few comments discuss the practical applicability of the book. While acknowledging its theoretical focus, some users argue that the principles learned can be applied to real-world programming problems, leading to a deeper understanding of data structures and algorithms. However, others question its direct relevance to day-to-day programming tasks.
There's also some discussion about the authors and their backgrounds. One commenter mentions Alexander Stepanov's contributions to the C++ Standard Template Library (STL), highlighting the influence of his mathematical approach on the design of the STL.
Overall, the comments paint a picture of "Elements of Programming" as a demanding but rewarding book for those seeking a deep understanding of the theoretical foundations of programming. It is generally recommended for readers with a strong mathematical background and a willingness to put in the effort to grasp its complex concepts. While not necessarily suitable for all programmers, it is seen as a valuable resource for those seeking a more rigorous and mathematically grounded approach to programming.