What are the benefits of using a linked list over an array?

Linked lists offer dynamic size, efficient insertions/deletions and no wasted memory, unlike arrays.

A linked list is a dynamic data structure, meaning its size can change during the execution of a program. This is a significant advantage over arrays, which have a fixed size that must be specified at the time of their declaration. If you're unsure about the amount of data you'll be dealing with, or if the data volume can significantly fluctuate, a linked list is a more flexible option. For more details, refer to dynamics of linked lists.

Another key benefit of linked lists is the efficiency of insertions and deletions. In an array, inserting or deleting an element requires shifting all subsequent elements, which can be computationally expensive. However, in a linked list, these operations can be performed more efficiently. To insert a new element, you simply need to adjust the pointers of the adjacent nodes. To delete an element, you just need to reroute the pointers around the node to be deleted. This makes linked lists particularly useful for applications where insertions and deletions are frequent. Understanding static vs dynamic data structures will provide further insights.

Linked lists also avoid the issue of wasted memory. With an array, if you overestimate the size you need, the unused spaces are wasted. Conversely, if you underestimate, you'll need to create a new, larger array and copy the contents of the old array to it, which can be time-consuming. In contrast, a linked list uses exactly as much memory as it needs and can easily grow or shrink as required.

Finally, linked lists can easily be made into more complex data structures like stacks, queues, and hash tables. This is more difficult with arrays, as they lack the flexibility and dynamic nature of linked lists. For an in-depth look at data structures, see understanding data types.

IB Computer Science Tutor Summary: In simple terms, linked lists are great because they can grow or shrink as needed, making them very flexible. They let you add or remove items quickly without wasting time or space. Unlike arrays, which have a set size and can waste space or require copying to a larger array, linked lists adapt to your needs, saving both memory and effort.