Data structures are amongst the very fundamentals of Computer Science and are often a core decision in developing efficient programs. Consequently, they are also largely categorized as a vital benchmark of computer science knowledge when it comes to industry interviews. This course contains a detailed review of all the common data structures and provides implementation level details in C++ to allow readers to become well equipped with all the different data structures they can leverage to write better code!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Coderust

Coderust helps software developers like you ace your coding interviews. Our interactive interview-prep courses encourage you to get hands-on with the material and practice working through problems.

Learn more about Coderust

Trusted by 2.9 million developers working at companies

These are high-quality courses. Trust me the price is worth it for the content quality. Educative came at the right time in my career. I'm understanding topics better than with any book or online video tutorial I've done. Truly made for developers. Thanks

Anthony Walker

@_webarchitect_

Just finished my first full #ML course: Machine learning for Software Engineers from Educative, Inc. ... Highly recommend!

Evan Dunbar

ML Engineer

You guys are the gold standard of crash-courses... Narrow enough that it doesn't need years of study or a full blown book to get the gist, but broad enough that an afternoon of Googling doesn't cut it.

Software Developer

Carlos Matias La Borde

I spend my days and nights on Educative. It is indispensable. It is such a unique and reader-friendly site

Souvik Kundu

Front-end Developer

Your courses are simply awesome, the depth they go into and the breadth of coverage is so good that I don't have to refer to 10 different websites looking for interview topics and content.

Vinay Krishnaiah

Software Developer

Course

Competitive Programming in C++: The Keys to Success

Gain insights into competitive programming, explore C++ skills with theory, code samples, practice problems, and master faster implementation for contests like ACM ICPC, Google CodeJam, and HackerCup.

5 h

intermediate

Course

Data Structures for Coding Interviews in C#

The ultimate guide to data structures for coding interviews in C#. Developed by FAANG engineers, learn implementations and strategies to write efficient, interview-ready code.

35 h

beginner

Course

Data Structures for Coding Interviews in JavaScript

The ultimate guide to data structures for coding interviews in JavaScript. Developed by FAANG engineers to help you write better code and ace industry benchmarks.

35 h

beginner

Course

Initializing Data Members: From C++11 till C++20

3 h

beginner

Course

C++ Fundamentals for Professionals

Gain insights into professional C++ with essential C++17 standards. Learn about memory management, inheritance, templates, threads, and more to optimize performance and ensure high safety.

23 h

beginner

Course

Coderust: Hacking the Coding Interview

The ultimate guide to coding interviews. Developed by FAANG engineers, practice with real-world questions in top languages. Prep faster and get interview-ready in just a few hours.

40 h

beginner

Course

Learn C++ Fundamentals

Learn C++ with an adaptive roadmap that fits your level, taking you from core syntax and programming fundamentals to OOP, templates, and practical coding for a strong foundation in modern C++.

10 h

beginner

Course

Competitive Programming in C++: The Keys to Success

intermediate

5 hour

Course

Data Structures for Coding Interviews in C#

beginner

35 hour

Course

Data Structures for Coding Interviews in JavaScript

beginner

35 hour

Course

Initializing Data Members: From C++11 till C++20

beginner

3 hour

Course

C++ Fundamentals for Professionals

beginner

23 hour

Course

Coderust: Hacking the Coding Interview

beginner

40 hour

Course

Learn C++ Fundamentals

beginner

10 hour

Built for 10x Developers

No Passive Learning

Learn by building with project-based lessons and in-browser code editor

Personalized Roadmaps

The platform adapts to your strengths & skills gaps as you go

Future-proof Your Career

Get hands-on with in-demand skills

AI Code Mentor

Write better code with AI feedback, smart debugging, and "Ask AI"

MAANG+ Interview Prep

AI Mock Interviews simulate every technical loop at top companies

Free Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the data structures of C++ programming?

C++ provides several fundamental data structures, both built-in and through its Standard Template Library (STL). The built-in data structures include arrays and pointers for simple, contiguous memory storage. The STL offers more advanced structures like vector (dynamic array), list (doubly linked list), deque (double-ended queue), stack (LIFO stack), queue (FIFO queue), priority_queue (heap), set (ordered collection of unique elements), map (key-value pairs), unordered_set, and unordered_map (hash-based structures). These data structures are optimized for different types of operations, such as fast access, insertion, or deletion, making C++ versatile for various programming needs.

Can I use C++ for coding interviews?

Yes, C++ is an excellent choice for coding interviews. It offers powerful features like manual memory management, object-oriented programming, and access to a rich Standard Template Library (STL) that provides efficient data structures and algorithms. C++ allows fine-grained control over performance, making it suitable for solving complex problems efficiently. Its syntax is well-known to most interviewers, and using C++ demonstrates a strong understanding of low-level programming concepts, which is valuable in many technical interviews.

How to study for a C++ interview

To study for a C++ interview, master core C++ concepts like pointers, memory management, object-oriented programming, and the Standard Template Library (STL). Practice solving common coding problems using STL data structures (vector, list, map, etc.) and algorithms to understand their complexities and use cases. Review key C++ features such as operator overloading, inheritance, polymorphism, and templates. Additionally, get comfortable writing clean, efficient code and explaining your approach clearly. Regular practice on platforms like LeetCode or Codeforces will help reinforce these skills and improve problem-solving speed.

Are C++ coders in demand?

Yes, C++ coders are in high demand, especially in game development, finance, embedded systems, and high-performance computing. C++ is valued for its speed, efficiency, and control over system resources, making it ideal for applications where performance is critical. Many companies seek C++ developers for roles that require low-level programming, real-time processing, and software that interacts closely with hardware. Its versatility and efficiency ensure that C++ remains a popular language in various tech sectors.

How many hours a day should I study C++?

The number of hours you should study C++ daily depends on your goals, current proficiency, and schedule. Generally, dedicating 1 to 2 hours of focused study daily is effective for consistent progress, allowing time to grasp new concepts, practice coding problems, and reinforce learning. If you have more time, you can extend this to 3 to 4 hours, but balance study with breaks to avoid burnout. Consistency is key, so aim for regular, manageable sessions that fit your routine.

Learn in-demand tech skills in half the time