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hash it out



                                                                          SOlUTion


                                You were asked to match the data structure names on the left with
                                their descriptions on the right. You were also to identify which one you
                                thought you might need to use for the surfer data.

                        Array                                    A variable that allows data to enter
                                                                 at one end of a collection and leave
                                                                 at the other end, supporting a first-in,
                                                                 first-out mechanism

                        Linked list                              A variable that contains data arranged
                                                                 as a matrix of multiple dimensions
                                                                 (but typically, only two)

           Here's the   Queue                                    A variable that has exactly two
            one you                                              columns and (potentially) many rows
            need.                                                of data

                        Hash                                     A variable with multiple indexed slots
                                                                 for holding data


                                                                 A variable that creates a chain of data
                                                                 where one data item points to another
                        Set
                                                                 data item, which itself points to
                                                                 another data item, and another, and
                                                                 so on and so forth


                        Multi-dimensional array                  A variable that contains a collection
                                                                 of unique data items

                          Known in the Python world
                          as a “dictionary.”
           Use a hash                                                         Geek Bits

          You need to use a data structure that maintains the
           association between the surfer score and the surfer name,
           which is exactly what a hash gives you. There are lots of   Hashes go by different names in
           surfers with lots of scores, and you need to maintain the   different programming languages:
           association between the two pieces of information.        mapping, dictionary, associative array, and
                                                                     key-value list, to name a few. In this book,
           Let’s take a look at how hashes work.                     we’ll stick to using the name hash.


           152    Chapter 5                           This cuts down on the amount of typing and saves our poor fingers!
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