LeetCode 101 - A LeetCode Grinding Guide

LeetCode is a popular online platform for practicing algorithm and data structure problems. It has become a must-have for those preparing for technical interviews and is often used as a measure of programming skills. In this article, we’ll explore LeetCode problem solving strategies and provide a C++-focused guide to help you grind through the platform’s problems effectively.

1. Understanding the Problem: The first step in solving any LeetCode problem is to understand the problem statement. Make sure you read the problem carefully and identify the key elements of the problem statement. This helps in breaking down the problem into smaller sub-problems and choosing the right data structures and algorithms to solve it.
2. Thinking Outside the Box: It’s important to approach LeetCode problems creatively. Try to think of different ways to solve the problem, even if they’re not the most conventional ones. This helps in developing a unique problem-solving approach and improving your thinking skills.
3. Identifying Patterns: Many LeetCode problems share similar patterns or themes. Once you identify these patterns, it becomes easier to apply similar solutions to different problems. Practice identifying patterns in problems and categorizing them based on their similarity.
4. Using Resources: There are numerous resources available online that provide detailed solutions to LeetCode problems. Use these resources to understand different approaches to solving problems and learn from others’ experiences. However, make sure you don’t just copy-paste solutions; try to understand them and apply them to your own problems.
5. Practice Makes Perfect: The only way to improve your problem-solving skills is through practice. Solve as many LeetCode problems as possible, focusing on different areas like arrays, linked lists, trees, sorting, dynamic programming, and more. Track your progress and identify areas where you need improvement.
6. Coding Standards and Best Practices: When writing code for LeetCode problems, it’s important to follow good coding standards and best practices. This helps in writing clean, efficient, and readable code that’s less prone to errors. Use meaningful variable names, follow consistent indentation styles, and take advantage of C++ language features like STL containers and algorithms.
7. Debugging and Testing: Debugging is an essential skill that every programmer should have. Learn how to use debugging tools effectively and test your code thoroughly before submitting it. This helps in identifying and fixing errors early in the development process, saving time and improving code quality.
   In conclusion, LeetCode is a great platform for honing your problem-solving skills. By following the strategies outlined in this article and putting in the necessary practice, you can improve your chances of success in technical interviews and become a better programmer overall.