Ask HN: What are some good books on graph theory in software dev?

7 points by clockwork_189 13y ago ↗ HN

Hi, I am a self taught programmer and I have as of late stumbled upon graph theory as a mathematical component for abstracting problems and finding easy solutions. Keen on applying what I learnt to my profession(programming), I set out on learning its applications in computer programming/software architecture. My CS friends have recommended a couple of their textbooks but they seem pretty bland. I was wondering if the HN community would be able to provide me with a good source for learning graph theory's application to programming.

6 comments

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undoware 13y ago ↗

I've mostly seen graph theory algos in 'algorithm encyclopedias' aimed at ~300-level undergrads. But the best, cheapest place to start is probably Wikipedia. As you probably know, the most important result in graph theory (for coders!) is <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dijkstra%27s_algorithm>. It takes a while to understand, but if you don't give up, you will get it. And learning it will give you all the exposure you need (reading list, etc) to comprehend graph theory more completely. Or at least, the parts that interest you.

I love graph theory too!

mindcrime 13y ago ↗

Algorithms in Java, Part 5:Graph Algorithms - Robert Sedgewick

clockwork_189 13y ago ↗

Aha, I have actually read parts 1-4 of this book. I will give part 5 a look. Thanks!

s3b 13y ago ↗

I recommend The Algorithm Design Manual by Steve S Skiena. It covers the important graph algorithms and it has catalog section of the important graph problems and how to go about solving them.

clockwork_189 13y ago ↗

Thank you, I will check this out.

explor3r 13y ago ↗

From a self-study perspective, the Coursera (online course) offerings around Algorithms may be worth a look as well: https://www.coursera.org/courses?orderby=upcoming&search=alg...

Robert Sedgewick (Princeton) and Tim Roughgarden (Stanford) run independent 2-part courses that are pretty comprehensive, and both have upcoming sessions. Robert in particular provides many thought exercises to clarity and reinforce understanding.