What’s a good resource for learning data structures and algorithms in C?

It’s fine to learn the concepts from a course taught in another language, but C is still useful for understanding pointers, memory layout, and manual implementations. After learning each topic, write it yourself in C and solve practice problems. Platforms such as LeetCode and curated problem lists can help once you’re comfortable with the fundamentals.

Try not to spend too long searching for a resource that matches every requirement exactly. A video series can help introduce concepts, but you’ll learn much more by implementing the structures yourself and attempting problems before looking at solutions. Use videos when you’re stuck or need a new explanation, then practice until the patterns become familiar.

You might want to look at *Essential Algorithms* by Rod Stephens. It gives intuitive explanations without oversimplifying things and includes exercises with solutions, which makes it useful for learning rather than just watching.

You don’t necessarily need a course that uses C. Data structures and algorithms are mostly language-independent, so a good explanation in Python, Java, or even pseudocode can still teach you the important ideas. You can then implement the same concepts in C. For books, *Introduction to Algorithms* is comprehensive, while *A Common-Sense Guide to Data Structures and Algorithms* is a gentler starting point.

It’s understandable to look for outside explanations when a class moves too quickly or doesn’t explain things clearly. A video course can be a good supplement, but combine it with a textbook and hands-on exercises so the learning doesn’t become passive.