Level 4 · Graph AlgorithmsBUILD YOUR INTUITION
Topological Sort
Resolve a directed dependency graph by repeatedly removing vertices with no remaining incoming edges.
THE MENTAL MODELWhen should this come to mind?
Resolve a directed dependency graph by repeatedly removing vertices with no remaining incoming edges.
Prerequisite feasibilityBuild orderDirected cycle detection What makes it work
Clarify edge direction. Each removed edge decrements its destination's indegree exactly once, including repeated edges if the input retains them.
When to choose something else
Undirected connectivity is a different problem. A cyclic dependency graph has no topological ordering.
See the pattern in action
Change the input. Follow the state. Make it yours.