If you're learning Java and getting into data structures, one concept you'll definitely come across is the Linked List. At first, it might seem a bit tricky compared to arrays, but once you understand how it works, it becomes a super handy tool in your coding journey.
So, what exactly is a linked list?
Think of it like a chain — each part of the chain is called a node. Every node holds some data (like a number or a word) and also keeps track of the next node in line. This way, all the nodes are connected one after the other.
Unlike arrays, linked lists don’t store elements in a fixed or continuous memory space. That makes them flexible — you can easily add or remove items without having to shift other elements around.
There are a few different types of linked lists:
Singly Linked List – each node points to the next one.
Doubly Linked List – nodes point both to the next and previous ones.
Circular Linked List – the last node connects back to the first.
One of the biggest reasons to use a linked list over an array is because it’s dynamic. You don’t need to define a fixed size at the beginning. It’s great for situations where the number of elements can change often.
If you're curious about how to create a linked list in Java, or want to practice with some examples, I recommend checking out this page:
Linked List in Java
It explains the concept in a beginner-friendly way and includes simple Java code examples you can try out on your own.
Give it a go and start experimenting — it's a great step toward understanding how data structures work in real coding scenarios.