Graph Algorithms for Coding Interviews: When to Use BFS, DFS, or Dijkstra

📰 Dev.to · Alex Mateo

Learn when to use BFS, DFS, or Dijkstra in coding interviews to tackle graph problems with confidence

intermediate Published 23 Apr 2026
Action Steps
  1. Build a graph using an adjacency list or matrix to represent nodes and edges
  2. Apply Breadth-First Search (BFS) to find the shortest path in an unweighted graph
  3. Use Depth-First Search (DFS) to detect cycles or find connected components in a graph
  4. Configure Dijkstra's algorithm to find the shortest path in a weighted graph
  5. Test your understanding by practicing graph problems on platforms like LeetCode or HackerRank
Who Needs to Know This

Software engineers and developers can benefit from understanding graph algorithms to improve their coding interview skills and tackle complex problems

Key Insight

💡 Choosing the right graph algorithm depends on the problem's constraints, such as weighted or unweighted graphs, and the desired outcome, like shortest path or cycle detection

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🚀 Master graph algorithms for coding interviews! Know when to use BFS, DFS, or Dijkstra 🤔

Full Article

Graphs are the most feared topic in coding interviews — not because they're impossible, but because...
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