Module 3: Graph Algorithms & Network Analysis: Capstone Thread
Graph thinking will return in build systems, service dependencies, routing, workflow engines, recommendation systems, scheduling, and authorization.
Semester Carry-Forward Artifact
This module contributes to the semester-level artifact: algorithms repo and benchmark notes.
Use the table below to record the specific notes, code, diagrams, traces, reviews, or decisions from this module that should be preserved. Keep entries concrete enough that they can be cited later in the Semester 10 final defense packet.
Save This For The Capstone
| Artifact | Why it may matter later | Where it lives |
|---|---|---|
| graph modeling sheet | turns vague system relationships into vertices and edges | algorithms repo or notebook |
| shortest-path decision table | prevents wrong algorithm choices under changing weights | module evidence folder |
| dependency DAG example | useful for CI/CD, job orchestration, or module dependency analysis | project docs |
| flow/matching model | useful for assignment, scheduling, capacity, or allocation features | design notes |
| mistake log | provides interview-ready examples of corrected reasoning | portfolio artifact |
Future Capstone Uses
Use graph algorithms when your capstone has:
- tasks with prerequisites
- services with dependencies
- users/items/relationships
- routing or cost-minimization decisions
- assignment under capacity constraints
- workflow state transitions
- permission inheritance
The capstone does not need a visible "graph feature" for graph thinking to matter.
Rehearsal Explanation
Practice this:
In a real system, graph algorithms matter because many engineering problems are relationship problems. If I model dependencies as a DAG, I can detect cycles and produce a safe build order. If I model assignments as bipartite matching, I can avoid greedy choices that block scarce options. The failure mode is naming an algorithm before stating the graph.
Carry-Forward Prompt
At the end of the module, write one paragraph:
The graph I expect to see again in my capstone is...
Name the vertices, edges, constraints, likely algorithm family, and one failure mode.