Explain the difference between a stack and a queue in terms of their data structure and operations. Provide an example scenario where you would choose to use a stack over a queue, and vice versa.

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Answered by suresh

Interview Question: Difference Between Stack and Queue

Difference Between Stack and Queue

Stack: A stack is a data structure that follows the Last In, First Out (LIFO) principle. This means that the last element added to the stack is the first one to be removed.

Queue: In contrast, a queue follows the First In, First Out (FIFO) principle. The first element added to the queue is the first one to be removed.

Example Scenario:

When to use a stack over a queue:

  • Scenario: Implementing an undo feature in a text editor. When a user performs an action, it is added to the stack. To undo the action, the most recent action (last added) is popped from the stack.

When to use a queue over a stack:

  • Scenario: Processing data in the order of arrival. For example, in a print queue, documents are printed in the order they are added to the queue, following the FIFO principle.

Focus keyword: stack and queue

Answer for Question: Explain the difference between a stack and a queue in terms of their data structure and operations. Provide an example scenario where you would choose to use a stack over a queue, and vice versa.