Appendix C. Collections
This appendix introduces the Java Collections Framework.™ You will learn what collections are and how they'll make your job easier and your programs better. You'll learn about the core elements that comprise the Collections Framework: interfaces, implementations, and algorithms.
This appendix also describes the core collection interfaces, which are the heart and soul of the Java Collections Framework. You'll learn general guidelines for effective use of these interfaces, including when to use which interface. You'll also learn idioms for each interface to help you get the most out of the interfaces.
Collections
Introduction
What Is a Collections Framework?
Benefits
Drawbacks of the Collections Framework
Interfaces
Collection Interface
Set Interface
List Interface
Map Interface
Object Ordering
SortedSet Interface
SortedMap Interface
Implementations
General-Purpose Implementations
Wrapper Implementations
Convenience Implementations
Algorithms
Sorting
Shuffling
Routine Data Manipulation
Searching
Finding Extreme Values
Custom Implementations
Reasons to Write Your Own Implementation
How to Write a Custom Implementation
Interoperability
Compatibility
API Design