When NOT to Use

Avoid forcing this pattern

Avoid forcing this pattern when:

  • First-In-First-Out needed: Use queue when processing order matters and oldest items should be handled first.
  • Random access required: Stack only provides access to top element. Use array or deque for index-based access.
  • Need to process from both ends: Stack is single-ended.

Use deque for double-ended operations. Remember: forcing a pattern where it doesn't fit leads to overcomplicated solutions. If you find yourself fighting the approach, step back and reconsider whether another technique works better.