Binary Search

Implement the binary search algorithm, a fundamental divide-and-conquer technique that finds elements in sorted arrays with O(log n) time complexity. Learn both iterative and recursive approaches, plus practical variants like lower_bound and upper_bound.

~0.8 hours
3 steps (+1 bonus)

Data Structures & Algorithms Project

The difficulty level shown is relative to other DSA projects. This project assumes you're comfortable with C++ fundamentals including classes, pointers, and memory management. If you're new to C++, we recommend completing our core C++ lessons first.

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What You'll Build

A complete binary search implementation with iterative and recursive versions, plus lower_bound() and upper_bound() variants used extensively in competitive programming and real-world applications.

Learning Objectives

  • Understand the divide-and-conquer paradigm
  • Master O(log n) logarithmic time complexity
  • Implement iterative binary search safely
  • Convert iterative algorithms to recursive form
  • Use lower_bound and upper_bound for range queries

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Project Steps

Step 1

Understanding Binary Search

Learn the divide-and-conquer paradigm and why binary search achieves O(log n) time complexity on sorted data.

~15 min
Step 2

Implementing Iterative Binary Search

Complete the binary search algorithm by adding comparison logic to find elements and return their index.

~15 min
Step 3

Recursive Search and Bound Functions

Implement recursive binary search and practical variants like lower_bound() and upper_bound() for range queries.

~15 min
Step 4

Interview Prep

Practice common interview questions about binary search, time complexity, and algorithm variants.

~15 min

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