MatrixPro – A Tool for On-The-Fly Demonstration of Data Structures and Algorithms

In this paper, we introduce a new tool, MatrixPro, intended for illustrating algorithms in action. One can produce algorithm animations in terms of direct manipulation of the library data structures, the process we call visual algorithm simulation. The user does not need to code anything to build animations. Instead, he or she can graphically invoke ready-made operations available in the library data structures to simulate the working of real algorithms. Since the system understands the semantics of the operations, teachers can demonstrate the execution of algorithms on-the-fly with different input sets, or work with ”what-if ” questions students ask in lectures. Such an approach lowers considerably the step to adopt algorithm visualization for regular lecture practice.