Data structures and algorithms are key concepts in computer science. Data structures are a way of organizing and storing data in a program, and can greatly impact how quickly and easily that data can be accessed and manipulated. Algorithms are sets of instructions that dictate how data is processed, and can be used in conjunction with data structures to create more efficient, effective programs. Through the use of data structures and algorithms, computer scientists are able to develop programs that are faster, more reliable, and able to handle ever-increasing amounts of data.