Data Structure Introduction

In computer science, a data structure is a particular way of organizing data in a computer so that it can be used efficiently. Different kinds of data structures are suited to different kinds of applications, and some are highly specialized to specific tasks. A data structure is not only the items stored, but also their relationship to each other. Advance knowledge about the relationship between data items allows designing of efficient algorithms for the manipulation of data.

Data Structures are applied extensively:

1. Compiler Design,
2. Operating System,
3. Database Management System,
4. Statistical analysis package,
5. Numerical Analysis,
6. Graphics,
7. Artificial Intelligence,
8. Simulation

 Major data structures used in the following areas :

1. RDBMS = Array (i.e. Array of structures)
2. Network data model = Graph
3. Hierarchical data model = Trees