Pathfinding
Pathfinding is a computational concept and algorithmic technique used to find the shortest or most efficient route between two points in a graph, grid, or network, often applied in fields like robotics, video games, and logistics. It involves solving problems where obstacles, costs, or constraints must be navigated to determine an optimal path. Common algorithms include Dijkstra's algorithm, A* (A-star), and breadth-first search, which balance factors like distance, time, or resource usage.
Developers should learn pathfinding when building applications that require navigation, such as video games for character movement, robotics for autonomous planning, or logistics software for route optimization. It is essential in scenarios where efficiency and obstacle avoidance are critical, like in GPS systems, AI simulations, or network routing protocols, to ensure reliable and performant solutions.