1. The document discusses data structures, defining them as a particular way of storing and organizing data in a computer so that it can be used efficiently.
2. A data structure consists of a set of data values, relationships between the data values, and functions that operate on the data. It provides an organized way to store and manipulate data.
3. Data structures are needed to facilitate efficient storage, retrieval, and manipulation of data. They help speed up processes by organizing data in a way that allows fast searching and access.