ABSTRACT
In Chapter 1 we presented an overview of approximation algorithms and metaheuristics. This serves as an overview of Parts I, II, and III of this handbook. In this chapter we discuss in more detail the basic methodologies and apply them to simple problems. These methodologies are restriction, greedy methods, LP rounding (deterministic and randomized), α vector, local ratio and primal dual. We also discuss in more detail inapproximability and show that the “classical” version of the traveling salesperson problem (TSP) is constant ratio inapproximable. In the last three sections we present an overview of the application chapters in Parts IV, V, and VI of the handbook.
