Graph Traversal
Learn how to visit all nodes in a graph using Breadth-First Search and Depth-First Search.
Learn how to visit all nodes in a graph using Breadth-First Search and Depth-First Search. This hands-on tutorial focuses on practical implementation of graph traversal concepts.
Graph Traversal
Unlike trees, graphs can have cycles, so we must keep track of visited nodes to avoid infinite loops.
1. Breadth-First Search (BFS)
BFS explores neighbors level-by-level using a Queue. It's ideal for finding the shortest path in an unweighted graph.
2. Depth-First Search (DFS)
DFS goes as deep as possible along each branch before backtracking using Recursion or a Stack.
Comparison: BFS vs DFS
| Feature | BFS | DFS |
|---|---|---|
| Data Structure | Queue (LIFO) | Stack / Recursion |
| Use Case | Shortest Path (Unweighted) | Connectivity, Cycle Detection |
| Space | O(Width) | O(Height) |
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Quiz
Quiz
Question 1 of 2Why is a 'visited' set necessary in graph traversal?