juniorGreedy Algorithms
Huffman Coding: Prefix Property
Updated Apr 28, 2026
Short answer
A greedy approach to data compression where no code is a prefix of another.
Deep explanation
Greedy algorithms are defined by the 'Greedy Choice Property'. A greedy approach to data compression where no code is a prefix of another. Unlike backtracking, once a choice is made, it is never reconsidered.
Real-world example
Giving change with the fewest coins in a standard currency.
Common mistakes
- Assuming greedy works for all optimization problems without proof.
Follow-up questions
- Is Greedy always faster than DP?