Introduction

Abstract

This book started after teaching an intensive course on algorithms to working programmers in Kyiv, in spring 2016. It took more than 3 years to complete, and, meanwhile, I also did three iterations of the course. Its aim is to systematically explain how to write efficient programs and, also, the approaches and tools for determining why the program isn’t efficient enough. In the process, it will teach you some Lisp and show in action the technics of algorithmic development. And, even if you won’t program in Lisp afterward, you’ll still be able to utilize the same approaches and tools or be inclined to ask why they aren’t available in your language of choice from its authors. :)