What is the Big O notation for insertion sort?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for the time complexity of the insertion sort algorithm, specifically expressed in Big O notation. This involves understanding how the algorithm performs in terms of efficiency relative to the size of the input data.
Answer
O(n²) worst-case, O(n) best-case
The worst-case and average-case time complexity of insertion sort is O(n²), while the best-case time complexity is O(n).
Answer for screen readers
The worst-case and average-case time complexity of insertion sort is O(n²), while the best-case time complexity is O(n).
More Information
Insertion sort is efficient for small or already mostly sorted datasets, hence the best-case time complexity of O(n). However, it becomes inefficient for large datasets due to its O(n²) complexity in the average and worst cases.
Tips
A common mistake is assuming insertion sort has the same time complexity for all cases. Remember it differs: O(n) for best, O(n²) for average and worst.
Sources
- The web page with info on - Example Source - developer.nvidia.com
- Insertion Sort Sorting Algorithm - Big-O - big-o.io
- Bubble Sort, Insertion Sort, Merge sort, Quicksort Sort and Big O ... - medium.com
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