An Introduction to Searching Algorithms

In this tutorial, we will learn about searching algorithms, which are step-by-step methods used to find specific items—such as numbers or objects—within a collection like an array or a list. We’ll explore why searching algorithms are important in programming and how they help us locate data efficiently. We will also look at different types of searching methods, including linear search, binary search, hash search, and jump search, and understand when to use each based on how the data is organized. To make these concepts easier to understand, we’ll use real-life examples—such as finding a book in a library arranged in different ways—to show how the structure of data affects the search process. By the end of this tutorial, you’ll have a clear understanding of the purpose and practical use of searching algorithms, setting the stage for upcoming lessons where we will dive deeper into each type with detailed examples.