Sorting Algorithm Visualizer

This project is a C++ application that brings sorting algorithms to life using the SDL2 library. Built for our CSE-150 course, it transforms abstract code into colorful, dynamic visuals, making it easier to see and understand how different sorting algorithms work step-by-step. Whether you’re learning the basics or just curious about algorithm behavior, this tool turns theory into an interactive experience.

Features

• Visualizes sorting algorithms step-by-step
• Interactive and educational
• Built with SDL2 for cross-platform graphics

Prerequisites

• Windows OS (other platforms may require adjustments)
• g++ (MinGW recommended)
• SDL2 development libraries
  • The project includes SDL2 headers and libraries in src/include and src/lib.
• Make (optional, for using the provided Makefile)

Project Structure

main.cpp                # Main application source code
Makefile                # Build script for compiling the project
SDL2.dll                # SDL2 runtime DLL (required for execution)
src/
  include/SDL2/         # SDL2 header files
  lib/                  # SDL2 library files

Build Instructions

1. Open a terminal in the project directory.

2. Run the following command:

   mingw32-make

   This will compile main.cpp and link against the SDL2 libraries, producing an executable named main.exe.

   The Makefile uses:

   g++ -I src/include -L src/lib -o main main.cpp -lmingw32 -lSDL2main -lSDL2

   • -I src/include specifies the location of SDL2 header files.
   • -L src/lib specifies the location of SDL2 library files.
   • -lmingw32 -lSDL2main -lSDL2 links the required libraries.

3. Ensure SDL2.dll is present in the project directory.

   • This DLL is required for the application to run.

Running the Application

1. After building, run the executable:

   ./main.exe

   Or double-click main.exe in the file explorer.
2. The application window will open, displaying the sorting visualization.

How to Use

When you start the program, you will see a welcome message:

******************************WELCOME TO SORTING ALGORITHM VISUALIZER******************************
Press Enter to continue or -1 to exit the program:

• Press Enter to proceed to the sorting visualization.
• Enter -1 and press Enter to exit the program.

Once inside the visualizer:

• Follow any on-screen instructions to select or observe sorting algorithms.
• Pressing Enter will open the visualizer window
• Choose any instructions per the User Guide to start that particular sorting algorithm. The Green bar and Lavendar bar indicates the number that is being compared in that particular render.
• After sorting process completes, all the borders turn Dark Green
• The terminal outputs the unsorted array, the algorithm used, total time taken by the algorithm(with a delay of 150ms between each render), total comparisons, and the sorted array.
• Press Exit to exit the visualizer or you can carry on visualizing different algorithms following the User Guide

How It Works

• The application uses SDL2 to create a graphical window.
• Sorting algorithms are implemented in C++ and visualized by updating the display as the algorithm progresses.
• Each step of the sorting process is rendered, allowing users to observe how elements are moved and sorted.
• The visualization helps users understand the inner workings and efficiency of different sorting algorithms.

Troubleshooting

• If you encounter errors related to missing SDL2 libraries, ensure that the src/include and src/lib directories contain the necessary files.
• Make sure SDL2.dll is in the same directory as main.exe.

License

This project is licensed under the MIT License. See the LICENSE file for details.

Note: The project uses SDL2, which is licensed separately. Please refer to the SDL2 license for details regarding the use of SDL2 libraries.

Credits

• SDL2: https://www.libsdl.org/
• Developed by Muntasir Mamun, Naila Nausheen Rahman and Yarus Hossain Rafi