When someone says data structure books, students usually imagine endless trees, confusing pointers, and stacks that feel taller than a hostel water tank. But don’t worry—data structures aren’t as scary as they look. With the right book, you can actually enjoy the subject (yes, really).
I’ve been through these books myself—sometimes just to pass exams, other times to prepare for GATE and NET, and once even to impress an interviewer (spoiler: it worked). So, let’s explore some good books on data structures that will help you survive and thrive.
1. Data Structure by Seymour Lipschutz – The Beginner’s Lifeline
- Title: Data Structures with C
- Why it’s popular: Simple grammar, simple algorithms, and clear concepts.
- Who should read: Perfect for second-semester graduation students.
Honest truth – This book will help you score around 60–70% in exams. Great for basics, but not for GATE.
2. Data Structure by Samiran Chattopadhyay – The Interview Impresser
- Title: Data Structures Through C Language
- Why it’s strong: Detailed explanations, practical approach, and thorough coverage.
- If you read this well, interviewers will nod in approval.
- Who should read: Ideal for students preparing for GATE and NET.
This book is like that friend who always gives you the right answer during viva.
3. Data Structure & Algorithm Made Easy by Narasimha Karumanchi – The Problem-Solver
- Why it’s great: Tons of solved problems, easy-to-understand language, and strong focus on competitive exams.
- Who should read: Anyone who wants extra practice beyond class notes.
It’s one of the best books for data structures and algorithms, especially if you want to test yourself with tricky problems.
4. Fundamentals of Data Structures in C by Sahni & Horowitz – The Classic Reference
- Why it matters: Covers concepts deeply and is widely used as a reference.
- Who should read: Students who want both depth and clarity.
This one stands tall in the list of data structures in C books, and it’s a favourite for building solid fundamentals.
Which Book to Choose?
- Graduation beginners – Start with Seymour Lipschutz.
- For GATE/NET prep – Go with Samiran Chattopadhyay.
- For problem-solving practice – Use Narasimha Karumanchi.
- For reference depth – Keep Sahni & Horowitz.
And yes—if you’re into exploring other languages, you can always find a Python data structures book or even data structures in C++ books to expand your learning journey.