Procedure

Getting Started

1. Choose a Learning Mode
   • Visualization Mode: Watch the algorithm animate step-by-step on a graph
   • Code Walkthrough Mode: Follow the algorithm with synchronized code highlighting

Using the Simulation

Step 1: Configure the Graph

• Set the number of vertices (3–7) using the input field
• Set the source vertex (starting node for shortest paths)
• Click Random Graph to generate a new graph, or
• Click Build Manually to create your own custom graph

Step 2: Run the Algorithm

• Click Play to watch the Bellman-Ford algorithm run automatically
• Use Next Step / Prev Step to navigate one step at a time
• Adjust the Speed dropdown to control animation pace
• Click Reset to restart the simulation

Step 3: Observe and Learn

• Watch the Distance Table update as edges are relaxed
• Notice the active edge (highlighted in orange) being processed
• Track the predecessor (Prev) column to trace shortest paths
• Monitor the Relaxation Count and Complexity in the Analysis section

Building a Custom Graph

1. Click Build Manually to open the graph editor
2. Click on a node to select it (turns yellow)
3. Click on another node to create an edge
4. Enter the edge weight (can be negative) and click Add
5. Repeat to add more edges
6. Click Apply to use your custom graph

Understanding the Visualization

Tips

• Start with a small graph (3–4 vertices) to understand the basics
• Try adding a negative weight edge to see how the algorithm handles it
• Use Step-by-Step mode for detailed understanding
• In Code Walkthrough mode, watch which line of code highlights as each step executes