Program Overview

Course Description

The course DD2458, Problem Solving and Programming under Pressure, is a 9.0 credit course that aims to develop students' ability to apply knowledge of algorithms, data structures, and complexity theory to given problems. The course focuses on problem-solving, from theory to practice, and requires students to solve a large number of assignments, implement algorithms, and present solutions orally.

Information per Course Offering

Spring 2026

• Course location: KTH Campus
• Duration: 13 Jan 2026 - 1 Jun 2026
• Periods: Spring 2026: P4 (4.5 hp), P3 (4.5 hp)
• Pace of study: 33%
• Application code: 61194
• Form of study: Normal Daytime
• Language of instruction: English
• Number of places: 12 - 25
• Target group: Open to students from year 3 and for students admitted to a master's programme as long as it can be included in their programme.

Course Syllabus

The course syllabus is available in an accessible format on the course page.

Content and Learning Outcomes

Course Contents

• Algorithms: computational geometry, graph algorithms, number theoretic algorithms, string matching.
• Design and analysis of algorithms: dynamic programming, amortised analysis, judging reasonableness.
• Programming skills, mainly in C++ and Java.

Intended Learning Outcomes

After passing the course, students shall be able to:

• Use algorithm design methods to solve given problems.
• Use basic algorithms in fields such as graph theory, number theory, and geometry.
• Analyse the efficiency of different algorithms.
• Compare different problems with respect to difficulty.
• Implement algorithms and data structures given abstract specifications.
• Identify bugs in others' solution attempts.
• Communicate with others during problem-solving in groups.
• Present algorithms, data structures, and problems orally.

Literature and Preparations

Specific Prerequisites

• Knowledge in algorithms and complexity, 7.5 higher education credits, equivalent to completed course DD1352/DD2350/DD2352.
• Documented experience in active participation in algorithmic programming competitions.

Recommended Prerequisites

• DD2440 Advanced Algorithms.

Literature

Information about course literature can be found in the course memo or in the course room in Canvas.

Examination and Completion

Grading Scale

• A, B, C, D, E, FX, F.

Examination

• 焀N1 - Exercises, 4.5 credits.
• LAB2 - Lab assignments and problem-solving sessions, 4.5 credits.

Examiner

Per Austrin.

Ethical Approach

• All members of a group are responsible for the group's work.
• In any assessment, every student shall honestly disclose any help received and sources used.
• In an oral assessment, every student shall be able to present and answer questions about the entire assignment and solution.

Further Information

Course Room in Canvas

Registered students can find further information about the implementation of the course in the course room in Canvas.

Offered by

EECS/Computer Science.

Main Field of Study

Computer Science and Engineering.

Education Cycle

Second cycle.

Supplementary Information

• The number of participants is limited to 25.
• The course is only given if there are sufficient teaching resources.
• The EECS code of honor applies.