Advanced Topic 40 of 51 Algorithms
Prim's Algorithm
MST grown from one vertex by adding cheapest crossing edge.
How it works
Start from one vertex and repeatedly add the cheapest edge that connects the tree to a new vertex, using a priority queue: O(E log V).
Where it is used
Dense graphs, network design.
Common pitfall
Initializing keys and handling duplicates in the queue incorrectly.
Where it fits in the course
Prim's Algorithm is topic 40 of 51 in Algorithms, rated Advanced. It follows Kruskal's Algorithm. The next topic is Strongly Connected Components.
Practice and explore
- Open the interactive lesson, with a mini quiz.
- Take the Algorithms quiz.
How to study this topic
- Read the explanation above and restate the definition in your own words.
- Open the interactive lesson and answer its mini quiz.
- Read the common pitfall, then write a short example that avoids it.
- Check your understanding in the Algorithms quiz, and revisit the topic if you miss a question.
Frequently asked questions
What is Prim's Algorithm?
MST grown from one vertex by adding cheapest crossing edge. It belongs to Algorithms and is an advanced-level topic.
Where do people use Prim's Algorithm?
Dense graphs, network design.
What is the most common mistake with Prim's Algorithm?
Initializing keys and handling duplicates in the queue incorrectly.
What should I learn before this topic?
Start with Kruskal's Algorithm, the topic just before it in Algorithms.
How can I practice it?
Answer the mini quiz in the interactive lesson, then take the Algorithms quiz.
Is Prim's Algorithm hard to learn?
It is an Advanced topic. Expect to read the explanation more than once and to connect it with earlier topics. Working through a small example by hand helps most.
How long does it take to learn Prim's Algorithm?
Most learners can read the explanation and finish the interactive lesson in under an hour. Fluency comes from applying the idea, so plan a few short practice sessions with the quiz.
Which topics are related to Prim's Algorithm?
Kruskal's Algorithm, Strongly Connected Components, Minimum Spanning Tree are closely connected. The full list is in the related topics section of this page.
What should I study after Prim's Algorithm?
Continue with Strongly Connected Components, the next topic in Algorithms.
Related topics
- Kruskal's Algorithm (Algorithms)
- Strongly Connected Components (Algorithms)
- Minimum Spanning Tree (Algorithms)
- Maximum Flow (Algorithms)
- Shor's Algorithm (Emerging & Frontier Topics)
- Grover's Algorithm (Emerging & Frontier Topics)