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Head First Algorithms and Data Structures
book

Head First Algorithms and Data Structures

by Eric Freeman, Elisabeth Robson
September 2026
Beginner to intermediate
518 pages
13h 53m
English
O'Reilly Media, Inc.
Content preview from Head First Algorithms and Data Structures

Praise for Head First Algorithms and Data Structures

“This book goes beyond “learning how to code”—it teaches the fundamentals of computation that apply to any programming language. Whether a systems programmer or a vibe coder, every reader will find the computational essentials here.”

— Char Stiles, MIT Media Lab

“Complex, ever-evolving concepts presented in a super approachable manner for learners as young as high school and early college.”

— Mk Haley, educator, former Disney Imagineer

“I read another well-regarded intro algorithms book covering the same topics, and the difference in clarity is astounding. The Head First examples feel natural, and the Big O explanation builds so smoothly you’re never left wondering how you got there.”

— Fehintoluwa Dahunsi, PMP, technical program manager and professional cloud architect

“More relevant than ever in the age of AI, this book makes classic data structures and algorithms accessible while teaching readers how to think critically, ask better questions, and meaningfully evaluate the answers AI provides.”

— Josh Sharfman, Shalhevet High School, Computer Science

“I wish I had this book when I started programming. It’s a fun and playful way to learn algorithms and data structures with real-world scenarios and concrete code examples.”

—Michael Baker, Chair of Arts and Entertainment Technologies at the University of Texas at Austin

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Publisher Resources

ISBN: 9781098174071Errata Page