A Catalog of Algorithmic Problems

Abstract

This is a catalog of algorithmic problems that arise commonly in practice.It describes what is known about them and gives suggestions about how best to proceed if the problem arises in your application.

What is the best way to use this catalog? First, think about your problem. If you recall the name, look up the catalog entry in the index or table of contents and start reading. Read through the entire entry, since it contains pointers to other relevant problems. Leaf through the catalog, looking at the pictures and problem names to see if something strikes a chord. Don’t be afraid to use the index, for every problem in the book is listed there under several possible keywords and applications. If you still don’t find something relevant, your problem is either not suitable for attack by combinatorial algorithms or else you don’t fully understand it. In either case, go back to step one.