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Everything about Prim's algorithm

Method for finding minimum spanning trees

In computer science, Prim's algorithm is a greedy algorithm that finds a minimum spanning tree for a weighted undirected graph. This means it finds a subset of the edges that forms a tree that includes every vertex, where the total weight of all the edges in the tree is minimized. The algorithm operates by building this tree one vertex at a time, from an arbitrary starting vertex, at each step adding the cheapest possible connection from the tree to another vertex. Wikipedia →

🧭 Start here: a 6-step reading path

  1. Read the overview: Prim's algorithmA 5-minute orientation
  2. Skim a recent paper: A tool-path planning method used in computer controlled optical surfacing based on improved prim algorithmInfluential work since 2022
  3. Pick up a classic book: Discrete and combinatorial mathematicsThe most-reprinted book on the subject
  4. Read the landmark paper: A Prim–Dijkstra Algorithm for Multihop Calibration of Networked Embedded SystemsCited 19 times
  5. Go sideways: Kruskal's algorithmA closely related topic
  6. Go sideways: Borůvka's algorithmA closely related topic

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🏆 Landmark papers (most cited)

🆕 Influential since 2022

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