Program Optimization: Four Approaches Before Rewriting

Slow program execution is a common pain point for programmers. The author, drawing on years of optimization experience, presents four approaches: 1. Use a better algorithm; 2. Use a better data structure; 3. Use a lower-level system; 4. Accept a less precise solution. The article uses bubble sort and selection sort as examples to illustrate the importance of algorithm selection, emphasizing the need to consider practical factors when choosing data structures and programming languages. The author cautions against premature optimization and stresses the importance of rigorous profiling before attempting optimization.