How do I optimize code for faster execution?
Optimizing code for faster execution—especially in embedded systems like with STM32 —means improving how efficiently the CPU runs your program. This involves algorithmic improvements , compiler settings , hardware-aware coding , and memory access optimization . Here’s a breakdown of strategies you can apply: 1. Algorithmic Optimization (Most Important) Use efficient algorithms and data structures: Replace O(n²) loops with O(n log n) when possible (e.g., sorting). Minimize nested loops and redundant computations. Cache reused calculations. Bad: c for ( int i = 0 ; i < N; i++) for ( int j = 0 ; j < N; j++) result += array [i] * array [j]; Better: c int sum = 0 ; for ( int i = 0 ; i < N; i++) { sum += array [i]; } result = sum * sum; 2. Use Compiler Optimization Flags If you're using GCC (like in STM32CubeIDE) : -O0 – No optimization (default for debugging). -O1 , -O2 , -O3 – Increasing levels of o...