Selection Sort: A Step-by-Step Guide

Selection sort is a fundamental sorting algorithm that provides a crucial stepping stone in the journey of understanding more complex sorting algorithms. While it is not the most efficient algorithm for sorting larger arrays, it serves as an invaluable educational tool for grasping the core principles of sorting algorithms.

We will delve into the inner workings of selection sort, exploring its basic mechanics and step-by-step implementation. By the end of this journey, you’ll not only have a solid grasp of how selection sort works.

When should I use Selection Sort?

1. Small Datasets: It has a time complexity of O(n²), which means it’s not efficient for large datasets. However, for small lists, the difference in performance may not be significant.
2. Simple Implementations: Selection sort is relatively easy to implement and understand. It’s a good choice when simplicity and code readability are prioritized over performance.
3. Memory Constraints: Selection sort is an in-place sorting algorithm, meaning it doesn’t require additional memory allocation, making it useful in situations where memory resources are limited.
4. Educational Purposes: It is often used as a teaching tool to help beginners understand the concept of sorting algorithms. It’s a…