problem solving and coding

How to Solve Coding Problems: Step-by-Step Guide (2024)

May 20, 2024 · 13 min read

Coding challenges are a common obstacle for many programmers, whether they are just starting or have years of experience.

In this complete guide, we will provide expert tips and strategies for effectively solving coding problems.

By following these valuable tips, you can confidently enhance your problem-solving skills and conquer even the most challenging coding tasks.

Let's get started.

Read the Problem Statement Carefully

Identify key constraints

One imperative step in solving coding problems is identifying the key constraints in the problem statement. These constraints define the boundaries within which your solution must operate and can greatly influence your approach.

Note important variables

Carefully note down important variables mentioned in the problem statement as they often hold crucial information for solving the problem efficiently.

Understanding the significance of these variables can guide you toward the right solution approach.

Remember to consider any implicit variables that might affect your solution but are not explicitly mentioned in the problem statement.

Attention to all variables will ensure a more comprehensive understanding of the problem.

Tip:  Here, you can learn about key  programming definitions and terms

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Break Down Complexity

Divide into smaller Tasks

You'll find that breaking down a complex coding problem into smaller tasks makes it more manageable.

Start by identifying the different components of the problem and breaking them down into smaller subproblems. This approach will help you tackle each subproblem individually and eventually solve the larger problem.

Focus on one task

The key to successfully breaking down a complex coding problem is to focus on one task at a time.

Concentrating all your efforts on solving one specific subproblem can help you avoid feeling overwhelmed by the complexity of the overall task.

This focused approach will improve your problem-solving skills and allow you to make steady progress toward the final solution.

When focusing on one task, setting clear goals and objectives for that specific subproblem is vital. It will help you stay on track and prevent distractions derailing your problem-solving process.

By dedicating your full attention and energy to each task, you can efficiently work through the complexities of the coding problem and find an effective solution.

Tip:  The  Feynman learning technique  is the best solution for learning how to break down complex concepts.

Research and Learn

Study similar problems

Research shows that one of the best strategies to solve coding problems easily is to study similar problems.

By analyzing how others have approached and solved comparable issues, you can gain valuable insights and techniques to apply to your challenges.

Learn new concepts

Learning new concepts is imperative for continuous improvement in coding.

By staying updated with the latest technologies, algorithms, and best practices, you can enhance your problem-solving skills and broaden your understanding of different coding techniques.

Any aspiring coder should regularly explore new concepts through online courses, tutorials, and coding challenges.

This proactive approach helps solve current problems more effectively and prepares you for future challenges in the ever-evolving tech industry.

Tip:  The fastest way to learn any new concept is to share what you learn. For example, you can learn a piece of code and then use  code sharing tools  to share your knowledge with the audience.

Write Pseudocode First

Plan out Algorithm Steps

For effective problem-solving, it is crucial to plan out the steps of your algorithm before writing actual code.

Pseudocode helps break down the problem into smaller, manageable steps, making it easier to implement the solution in the chosen programming language.

Visualize solution flow

While writing pseudocode, visualize how the solution will flow from one step to another.

This visualization helps in understanding the logic of the algorithm and can highlight any potential issues or optimizations that can be made before writing actual code.

For instance, if you are working on a sorting algorithm, visualizing the flow can help you determine the most efficient way to arrange the elements and identify any redundant steps that you can eliminate to improve performance.

Start with Simple

Implement basic solution

Unlike complex problems, coding problems are best tackled with a straightforward approach.

Begin by implementing a basic solution that may not be the most efficient but solves the problem correctly.

This helps in understanding the problem better and getting a working solution.

Refine as needed

Implementing a basic solution is just the beginning.

As you progress, refine your code by optimizing it for performance, readability, and scalability.

Refactoring code to improve efficiency and incorporating best practices will boost your solution to the next level.

A key strategy for refining your code is to analyze its complexity and identify areas for optimization. This may involve revisiting your algorithm choices and data structures or breaking down the problem into smaller, manageable parts.

By continuously refining your solution, you improve your coding skills and enhance the quality of your code.

Use Online Resources

Leverage coding communities

Despite the various challenges of coding problems, the process becomes easier when you tap into the wealth of knowledge available in coding communities.

These online platforms, such as Stack Overflow and GitHub, offer a supportive environment where you can seek solutions, ask questions, and learn from experienced programmers.

Consult online tutorials

These resources provide step-by-step guidance on various programming concepts and problem-solving techniques, making grasping complex algorithms and data structures easier.

The abundance of online tutorials ranges from beginner to advanced, and they are fit for programmers of all proficiency levels.

By consulting these tutorials, you can enhance your understanding of coding principles and develop effective strategies for solving various coding problems.

Any aspiring coder should take advantage of the vast array of online resources that can facilitate the process of solving coding problems.

By leveraging coding communities, consulting online tutorials, and exploring other online platforms, you can quickly sharpen your problem-solving skills and become a more proficient programmer.

Tip:  Resources like YouTube and Udemy are great ways. But you can also read the  best development books  to enhance your coding skills further.

Debug Thoroughly

Identify common mistakes

Unlike overlooking small errors, identifying common mistakes is crucial in debugging code efficiently.

Any coder should be aware of recurring issues like:

• Syntax Errors
• Logical mistakes
• Incorrect variable usage

By recognizing these patterns, programmers can initiate debugging and write cleaner code.

Test edge cases

Any comprehensive debugging strategy should include testing edge cases to ensure code reliability and robustness.

By intentionally pushing the boundaries of input values or conditions, developers can uncover potential mistakes that might go unnoticed during regular testing.

This practice helps programmers anticipate and address unexpected scenarios, leading to more resilient code.

Testing edge cases involves evaluating the extremes of input data or conditions to verify the code's behavior under challenging circumstances.

By examining how the program handles unusual or extreme values, developers can identify vulnerabilities or inefficiencies that may occur in real-world usage.

Practice Regularly

Build problem-solving muscle

Your coding skills are like a muscle that needs regular exercise to strengthen. Make a habit of solving coding problems daily to enhance your problem-solving abilities.

Develop coding instincts

Build a strong intuition for coding by practicing regularly.

As you solve more problems, you'll notice patterns and common strategies that can help you tackle new problems more efficiently.

Developing coding instincts involves understanding different approaches to problem-solving and knowing when to apply them. This initiative will guide you in choosing the most effective solutions and optimizing your code for better performance.

Review and Refine

Analyze solution efficiency

Unlike simply finding a solution, it is imperative to analyze its efficiency.

Evaluate the time complexity, space complexity, and overall performance of the code.

This step will help you understand how the code will perform with larger inputs and whether there are any bottlenecks that need to be addressed.

Optimize code quality

Coding problems are not just about finding a solution but also about writing clean and efficient code.

Pay attention to coding standards, readability, and best practices.

Refactor the code to make it more concise, understandable, and maintainable. This step is crucial in ensuring that your code is not only functional but also of high quality.

You can use tools like linters and code formatters to check and improve your code's quality automatically.

These tools can help you catch potential errors, enforce coding standards, and enhance the overall readability of your codebase.

By optimizing your code quality, you can make it easier for yourself and others to understand and work with the code in the future.

Tip:  You can use a  code review checklist  to optimize code efficiency quickly.

Learn from Others

Study open-source code

Study open-source code to truly enhance your coding skills.

By studying the work of experienced developers, you can gain insight into different perspectives, problem-solving techniques, and coding styles.

This exposure can broaden your knowledge and inspire innovative solutions to coding problems.

Learn from mentors

Some of the most effective learning experiences come from mentors who can provide guidance, feedback, and real-world insights.

Connecting with experienced professionals in the field can offer valuable advice, help you navigate challenges, and accelerate your learning process.

Learn from mentors who have expertise in your specific area of interest.

Their guidance can help you grasp complex concepts, avoid common pitfalls, and stay updated on industry trends.

Building a strong mentorship relationship can significantly impact your coding journey and foster professional growth.

Stay Calm and Patient

Manage problem-solving stress

After encountering a challenging coding problem, managing the stress that comes with it is imperative.

Take deep breaths, step back, and remind yourself that feeling stuck is okay.

Keeping a clear mind will help you approach the problem more effectively.

Take breaks when needed

If you find yourself hitting a wall and getting frustrated, it's time to take a break.

Stepping away from the problem for a few minutes or even an hour can improve your mental clarity.

Some fresh air or a quick walk can help reset your mind and improve focus when you return to the task.

When stress builds up, it can blur your thinking and make problem-solving even more challenging.

Taking breaks gives you a chance to relax and allows your brain to subconsciously work on the problem in the background, often leading to new insights and solutions.

Identify Patterns

Recognize common patterns

One vital skill in solving coding problems is recognizing common patterns.

By identifying recurring themes or structures in the problem you're trying to solve, you can apply similar solutions that have worked in the past. It can help simplify your problem-solving process and lead to more efficient coding.

Apply pattern-based solutions

To effectively apply pattern-based solutions, you need to understand different types of patterns commonly found in coding problems.

These patterns can include algorithms like sliding windows, two-pointers, or depth-first search.

By leveraging these patterns, you can quickly develop solutions that have been proven to work for similar problems.

Tip:  You can explore different  development frameworks  to identify common patterns.

Draw Diagrams

Visualize problem structure

When faced with a complex coding problem, start by visualizing its structure.

Use diagrams to represent different components, their relationships, and data flow. This visual representation can clarify the problem and help you identify key areas to focus on.

Illustrate solution flow

While solving coding problems, illustrating the solution flow through diagrams can facilitate the problem-solving process.

Create a step-by-step flowchart or sequence diagram to map the logic and algorithm.

This visual aid can guide you through the implementation phase and help you identify potential errors or optimizations in the solution.

Diagrams can also serve as documentation for your code, making it easier for others to understand your thought process and approach.

By incorporating visual elements into your problem-solving strategies, you can enhance your efficiency and accuracy in coding.

Collaborate with Peers

Work with coding partners

For an effective problem-solving strategy, consider working with coding partners.

Collaborating with peers can help you bounce ideas off each other, share different approaches, and collectively develop innovative solutions.

By leveraging your peers diverse skills and perspectives, you can tackle coding problems more efficiently and effectively.

Learn from peer feedback

Even the most experienced coders can benefit from constructive feedback from their peers.

Peer feedback can provide valuable insights into alternative solutions, code optimization techniques, and potential pitfalls to avoid.

You can continuously improve your problem-solving skills and expand your coding knowledge by actively seeking and incorporating feedback from your coding peers.

Work with your coding partners to brainstorm ideas, discuss different approaches, and troubleshoot any challenges you encounter.

Creating a collaborative environment with your peers can enhance your problem-solving abilities and accelerate your learning process.

Final Words

Mastering the key skills mentioned above will help you solve coding problems more easily and efficiently.

Buffing your problem-solving skills, staying organized, and utilizing various techniques such as pseudocoding and debugging can help you tackle coding challenges with confidence and precision.

Keep practicing and implementing these strategies to enhance your problem-solving abilities and become a more skilled coder.

Why is code optimization important in the problem-solving process?

Code optimization is important in the problem-solving process because it improves the code's performance and efficiency. Optimized code runs faster, requires less memory, and performs better with large input sizes. Optimization reduces the code's time and space complexity and ensures that it meets performance requirements.

Why is testing your code with different test cases important in coding problem-solving?

Testing your code with different test cases helps ensure your solution works correctly for various scenarios. It also helps identify edge cases, errors, and potential bugs in the code. Thorough testing enhances the reliability and accuracy of your code.

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Posted on Aug 12, 2021 • Updated on Sep 12, 2021

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Problem Solving

Foundations course, introduction.

Before we start digging into some pretty nifty JavaScript, we need to begin talking about problem solving : the most important skill a developer needs.

Problem solving is the core thing software developers do. The programming languages and tools they use are secondary to this fundamental skill.

From his book, “Think Like a Programmer” , V. Anton Spraul defines problem solving in programming as:

Problem solving is writing an original program that performs a particular set of tasks and meets all stated constraints.

The set of tasks can range from solving small coding exercises all the way up to building a social network site like Facebook or a search engine like Google. Each problem has its own set of constraints, for example, high performance and scalability may not matter too much in a coding exercise but it will be vital in apps like Google that need to service billions of search queries each day.

New programmers often find problem solving the hardest skill to build. It’s not uncommon for budding programmers to breeze through learning syntax and programming concepts, yet when trying to code something on their own, they find themselves staring blankly at their text editor not knowing where to start.

The best way to improve your problem solving ability is by building experience by making lots and lots of programs. The more practice you have the better you’ll be prepared to solve real world problems.

In this lesson we will walk through a few techniques that can be used to help with the problem solving process.

Lesson overview

This section contains a general overview of topics that you will learn in this lesson.

• Explain the three steps in the problem solving process.
• Explain what pseudocode is and be able to use it to solve problems.
• Be able to break a problem down into subproblems.

Understand the problem

The first step to solving a problem is understanding exactly what the problem is. If you don’t understand the problem, you won’t know when you’ve successfully solved it and may waste a lot of time on a wrong solution .

To gain clarity and understanding of the problem, write it down on paper, reword it in plain English until it makes sense to you, and draw diagrams if that helps. When you can explain the problem to someone else in plain English, you understand it.

Now that you know what you’re aiming to solve, don’t jump into coding just yet. It’s time to plan out how you’re going to solve it first. Some of the questions you should answer at this stage of the process:

• Does your program have a user interface? What will it look like? What functionality will the interface have? Sketch this out on paper.
• What inputs will your program have? Will the user enter data or will you get input from somewhere else?
• What’s the desired output?
• Given your inputs, what are the steps necessary to return the desired output?

The last question is where you will write out an algorithm to solve the problem. You can think of an algorithm as a recipe for solving a particular problem. It defines the steps that need to be taken by the computer to solve a problem in pseudocode.

Pseudocode is writing out the logic for your program in natural language instead of code. It helps you slow down and think through the steps your program will have to go through to solve the problem.

Here’s an example of what the pseudocode for a program that prints all numbers up to an inputted number might look like:

This is a basic program to demonstrate how pseudocode looks. There will be more examples of pseudocode included in the assignments.

Divide and conquer

From your planning, you should have identified some subproblems of the big problem you’re solving. Each of the steps in the algorithm we wrote out in the last section are subproblems. Pick the smallest or simplest one and start there with coding.

It’s important to remember that you might not know all the steps that you might need up front, so your algorithm may be incomplete -— this is fine. Getting started with and solving one of the subproblems you have identified in the planning stage often reveals the next subproblem you can work on. Or, if you already know the next subproblem, it’s often simpler with the first subproblem solved.

Many beginners try to solve the big problem in one go. Don’t do this . If the problem is sufficiently complex, you’ll get yourself tied in knots and make life a lot harder for yourself. Decomposing problems into smaller and easier to solve subproblems is a much better approach. Decomposition is the main way to deal with complexity, making problems easier and more approachable to solve and understand.

In short, break the big problem down and solve each of the smaller problems until you’ve solved the big problem.

Solving Fizz Buzz

To demonstrate this workflow in action, let’s solve Fizz Buzz

Understanding the problem

Write a program that takes a user’s input and prints the numbers from one to the number the user entered. However, for multiples of three print Fizz instead of the number and for the multiples of five print Buzz . For numbers which are multiples of both three and five print FizzBuzz .

This is the big picture problem we will be solving. But we can always make it clearer by rewording it.

Write a program that allows the user to enter a number, print each number between one and the number the user entered, but for numbers that divide by 3 without a remainder print Fizz instead. For numbers that divide by 5 without a remainder print Buzz and finally for numbers that divide by both 3 and 5 without a remainder print FizzBuzz .

Does your program have an interface? What will it look like? Our FizzBuzz solution will be a browser console program, so we don’t need an interface. The only user interaction will be allowing users to enter a number.

What inputs will your program have? Will the user enter data or will you get input from somewhere else? The user will enter a number from a prompt (popup box).

What’s the desired output? The desired output is a list of numbers from 1 to the number the user entered. But each number that is divisible by 3 will output Fizz , each number that is divisible by 5 will output Buzz and each number that is divisible by both 3 and 5 will output FizzBuzz .

Writing the pseudocode

What are the steps necessary to return the desired output? Here is an algorithm in pseudocode for this problem:

Dividing and conquering

As we can see from the algorithm we developed, the first subproblem we can solve is getting input from the user. So let’s start there and verify it works by printing the entered number.

With JavaScript, we’ll use the “prompt” method.

The above code should create a little popup box that asks the user for a number. The input we get back will be stored in our variable answer .

We wrapped the prompt call in a parseInt function so that a number is returned from the user’s input.

With that done, let’s move on to the next subproblem: “Loop from 1 to the entered number”. There are many ways to do this in JavaScript. One of the common ways - that you actually see in many other languages like Java, C++, and Ruby - is with the for loop :

If you haven’t seen this before and it looks strange, it’s actually straightforward. We declare a variable i and assign it 1: the initial value of the variable i in our loop. The second clause, i <= answer is our condition. We want to loop until i is greater than answer . The third clause, i++ , tells our loop to increment i by 1 every iteration. As a result, if the user inputs 10, this loop would print numbers 1 - 10 to the console.

Most of the time, programmers find themselves looping from 0. Due to the needs of our program, we’re starting from 1

With that working, let’s move on to the next problem: If the current number is divisible by 3, then print Fizz .

We are using the modulus operator ( % ) here to divide the current number by three. If you recall from a previous lesson, the modulus operator returns the remainder of a division. So if a remainder of 0 is returned from the division, it means the current number is divisible by 3.

After this change the program will now output this when you run it and the user inputs 10:

The program is starting to take shape. The final few subproblems should be easy to solve as the basic structure is in place and they are just different variations of the condition we’ve already got in place. Let’s tackle the next one: If the current number is divisible by 5 then print Buzz .

When you run the program now, you should see this output if the user inputs 10:

We have one more subproblem to solve to complete the program: If the current number is divisible by 3 and 5 then print FizzBuzz .

We’ve had to move the conditionals around a little to get it to work. The first condition now checks if i is divisible by 3 and 5 instead of checking if i is just divisible by 3. We’ve had to do this because if we kept it the way it was, it would run the first condition if (i % 3 === 0) , so that if i was divisible by 3, it would print Fizz and then move on to the next number in the iteration, even if i was divisible by 5 as well.

With the condition if (i % 3 === 0 && i % 5 === 0) coming first, we check that i is divisible by both 3 and 5 before moving on to check if it is divisible by 3 or 5 individually in the else if conditions.

The program is now complete! If you run it now you should get this output when the user inputs 20:

• Read How to Think Like a Programmer - Lessons in Problem Solving by Richard Reis.
• Watch How to Begin Thinking Like a Programmer by Coding Tech. It’s an hour long but packed full of information and definitely worth your time watching.
• Read this Pseudocode: What It Is and How to Write It article from Built In.

Knowledge check

The following questions are an opportunity to reflect on key topics in this lesson. If you can’t answer a question, click on it to review the material, but keep in mind you are not expected to memorize or master this knowledge.

• What are the three stages in the problem solving process?
• Why is it important to clearly understand the problem first?
• What can you do to help get a clearer understanding of the problem?
• What are some of the things you should do in the planning stage of the problem solving process?
• What is an algorithm?
• What is pseudocode?
• What are the advantages of breaking a problem down and solving the smaller problems?

Additional resources

This section contains helpful links to related content. It isn’t required, so consider it supplemental.

• Read the first chapter in Think Like a Programmer: An Introduction to Creative Problem Solving ( not free ). This book’s examples are in C++, but you will understand everything since the main idea of the book is to teach programmers to better solve problems. It’s an amazing book and worth every penny. It will make you a better programmer.
• Watch this video on repetitive programming techniques .
• Watch Jonathan Blow on solving hard problems where he gives sage advice on how to approach problem solving in software projects.

Support us!

The odin project is funded by the community. join us in empowering learners around the globe by supporting the odin project.

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20 Code Challenges To Put What You’re Learning to the Test

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Code challenges help you build problem-solving skills, better understand the programming language you use, and get to know algorithms you may not be familiar with. If you want to improve your skills in programming, there’s no better way than by writing code. In addition, coding challenges are convenient because they allow you to exercise your skills on a bite-sized problem and rarely require you to build a complete application, so you can usually complete them rather quickly.

Code challenges are also part of most coding interviews. Hiring managers may see the skills listed on your resume, and you may be able to talk like a programmer, but they also want to know that you can write code. By having you solve a coding challenge, they can assess your skills and be sure you can do the job. So working on coding challenges will also help you prepare for job interviews. We’ve collected 20 popular code challenges to get you started.

Learn something new for free

Intro to chatgpt, general programming challenges.

While most code challenges are small in scope, that doesn’t mean they won’t involve a complex solution, so it is best to choose a challenge that stretches your skills but isn’t completely out of your league. Below, we’ve ranked a few coding challenges by their complexity so you can find the best challenge for your skill level.

Basic code challenges

These are good beginner challenges. They may not actually show up in a coding interview, but everyone has to start somewhere. These challenges are good for practicing your skills at using a programming language.

• Build a binary search tree .
• Write a program that prints the numbers from 1 to 100. But for multiples of three, print Fizz instead of the number, and multiples of five, print Buzz. For numbers that are multiples of both three and five, print FizzBuzz .
• Print Hello World in several different ways in a programming language .
• Code in a new language .
• Write a function that will take a given string and reverse the order of the words .
• Write a function that will find the 50th number in the Fibonacci Sequence .
• Write a function that tests if a number, n, is a prime number .

Intermediate code challenges

These code challenges are examples of what might be asked in interviews. There may be a big difference in difficulty compared to the basic challenges. If you get stuck on these, go back to the basics, practice more, and you will get there.

• Write a function to check that a binary search tree is balanced .
• Write a function to reverse the order of words that have punctuation and keep the punctuation in place .
• Given two words (beginWord and endWord) and a dictionary’s word list, find the length of the shortest transformation sequence from beginWord to endWord .
• Write a function that will find the nth number in the Fibonacci Sequence .
• Write a function that will print out all prime numbers in a given string .

Hard code challenges

The point of these challenges is to challenge you, which will help you learn more. These will be similar to the type of work you’ll do on the job. Most of these challenges will be hard but use Big O notation and expect a certain type of performance. If you are struggling with these, search StackOverflow or Google for direction. Many developers have run into these types of problems and will help you find the solution. Just don’t cheat and copy the answer. What good would that do?

• Write a function that inserts a list of n numbers into a binary search tree that runs at O(n log n) time .
• Write a function to reverse the order of words with punctuation and keep the punctuation in place that runs at 0(n) time .
• Write a function that will find the nth number in the Fibonacci Sequence and runs at O(n) time .
• Write a function that tests if a number, n, is a prime number and a function that will print out all prime numbers in a given string as efficiently as possible .

Technology specific challenges

If you want to try some coding challenges that will test your skills on specific technologies, we have a few of those challenges.

Web development code challenges

• Build a web page for your favorite band . A fun challenge can be creating a webpage for your favorite musical artist. Start by using only static HTML , and if you want to challenge yourself, even more, add CSS and JavaScript . Then, for extra credit, build it in a front-end framework like React and make it an interactive experience.
• Recreate a magazine layout using Semantic HTML and CSS Flexbox . It is not always that easy to recreate a design. This code challenge will really test your skills with HTML and CSS by having you recreate a design from scratch on your own. Once you are a working web developer, you will be doing this daily.
• Build a static portfolio site . Once you finish the first two web development challenges listed here, you will have demonstrated your skills in web development. So why not take it a step further and show off those skills to the world or a potential employer by building a portfolio site? With this challenge, you will do just that. You can use HTML and CSS and, if you want, JavaScript. If you need help creating a portfolio, watch the video below for a step-by-step tutorial. And if you want to learn how to use JavaScript to make it interactive, check out Part 2 .

Financial data analysis code challenges

Maximize stock trading profit . This is reportedly a question asked in a Google interview and will test your skills in analyzing financial data . There are three levels to this challenge:

• Basic: Given the daily values of a stock, write a program that will find how you can gain the most with a single buy-sell-trade.
• Intermediate: Given the daily values of a stock over several days n , write a program that will find how you can gain the most with a combination of buy-sell trades.
• Hard: Complete both the basic and intermediate algorithms in the most efficient way possible.

Code challenges are a great way to practice your coding skills or keep yourself from getting rusty. Building complete applications will also teach you a lot, but they can take time to finish. On the other hand, a coding challenge can be completed in an evening and will expose you to new algorithms and programming concepts. They are also part of many coding interviews, so completing a few can help you prepare for a job interview. For more details on the code challenges we have, check out Essential Information on Code Challenges .

Whether you’re looking to break into a new career, build your technical skills, or just code for fun, we’re here to help every step of the way. Check out our blog post about how to choose the best Codecademy plan for you to learn about our structured courses, professional certifications, interview prep resources, career services, and more.

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How to Solve Programming Problems

Written By John Sonmez

Right before the holidays, I said that you had better learn how to solve programming problems .

This time I am going to try and give you some good tools to enable you to get good at solving programming problems.  (Really algorithm type problems specifically.)

Common mistakes

When most programmers are given a programming problem in an interview, they make several key mistakes.  The most severe of those is the improper allocation of time.

If you have heard the saying “measure twice and cut once,” then you are probably familiar with the idea of spending upfront time to make sure something is done right, rather than diving right in.

The most common mistake I see when conducting interviews or watching someone try to solve a programming problem is they try to start writing code as soon as possible.

You must resist this urge.

You really want to make sure you take enough time to understand the problem completely before attempting to solve it.

Another big mistake is trying to over solve the solution on the first iteration.  Keep it simple, don’t try to get fancy.

A simple set of steps

I am going to give you a simple set of steps to follow which you can use for any algorithm type programming problem.

• Read the problem completely twice.
• Solve the problem manually with 3 sets of sample data.
• Optimize the manual steps.
• Write the manual steps as comments or pseudo-code.
• Replace the comments or pseudo-code with real code.
• Optimize the real code.

As much as 70% of our time should be spent in steps 1-3.

Let’s look at each step.

Read the problem completely twice

This is the single most important step.  You may even want to read the problem 3 or 4 times.

You want to make sure you completely understand the problem.  A good test of this is whether or not you can explain the problem to someone else.

I cannot over-emphasize how important this step is!

If you don’t understand the problem, you cannot solve it.  Do not worry about wasting time here, because the better you understand the problem, the easier it will be to solve it.

If you are given any examples along with the problem, make sure you have worked through the examples and understand why the answers are correct for each one.

Solve the problem manually

I am going to tell you perhaps the biggest secret in programming.

“Nothing can be automated that cannot be done manually!”

Programming is automation plain and simple.  You may have the ability to skip the manual steps and jump directly to code, but there is a manual process which is the foundation of any code you write.

It is very important to solve the problem manually first, so that you know what you are going to automate, otherwise you are just slinging code around.  Which while can be fun, will make you look like an idiot in a programming interview and will probably cause you to sweat profusely.

I recommend that you solve the problem with at least three different inputs to make sure you really understand your solution and that it will work for more than one case.

I often use a Mathematical Induction approach if possible.  Using this approach I might try and solve for 1 first, then for 2, then for n.

Also don’t forget to look for corner cases and edge cases and do any examples for those kind of cases you can think of.

It’s very important that when you solve a problem manually, you recognize what your brain is actually doing to solve the problem.  You may need to write out all the things you are normally storing in your head.  You want to be aware of each step, it is easy to gloss over them.

Let’s look at a very basic example, reversing a string.

If I give you a string “Zebra”, and ask you to reverse it, most people will do the following manual steps.

• Write “Zebra” down.
• Start a new word, and put “a” as the first letter.  (Why –> because it is the last letter, we want to start here)
• Put “r” down as the 2nd letter.  (Why –> because it is the next letter backwards from the last letter we copied)
• Put “b” down as the 3rd letter.  (Why –> same as above)

Notice how I write down each little step and why.

Optimize the manual solution

People often don’t realize how valuable this step is.  It is much easier to rearrange and reconstruct and idea or algorithm in your head than it is in code.

It’s well worth the effort to try and optimize the actual solution or simplify it when it is still in the most easily malleable state.

What you want to do here is figure out if there is another way you can solve the problem easier, or if there are some steps you can cut our or simplify.

Let’s look at our string reversal example and see if we can simplify the steps.

We should be able to immediately recognize that we can use a loop here to reduce the manual steps.  Our duplicate why’s for most of our steps tell us that we are doing the same thing over and over for each step, just with different data.

• Start at the last letter in the word and create a new empty word.
• Append the current letter to the new word
• If there is a previous letter, make the previous letter the current letter and start back at 3.

Look how close we are getting to code at this point.  You should be tempted to actually write the code for this.  That is good, it tells you that you have solved and simplified the problem well.  Writing code should now become very easy.

Write pseudo-code or comments

Many times you can skip this step if you have a really good handle on the problem or your previous steps already created a detailed enough description of the solution that coding it is already a 1 to 1 translation.

If you are a beginner or struggle with these kinds of problems, I would go ahead and take the time to do this step anyway though.

What we want to do here is capture all the steps we created and now either put them into our editor as comments or write them as psuedo-code that we can translate to real code.

By doing this, we can know exactly what the structure of the code we are going to write is going to look like which makes the job of filling in the actual code later trivial.

Let’s look at some psudeo-code for reversing a string.

// NewWord = “” // Loop backwards through word to reverse //   NewWord += CurrentLetter // Return NewWord

Pretty simple, but the key thing we have done here is outlined the structure of the code we will write to solve the problem.

Replace comments with real code

This step should be extremely easy at this point.  If you have done all the other steps, this step involves no problem solving at all.

All we do here is take each comment and convert it into a real line of code.

Taking the string reversal, we might end up with something like this.

1 for 1 translation of the comments we created above for real code.

If you struggle here, there are usually two possible reasons:

• You didn’t break down the problem into small enough steps
• You don’t know your programming language well enough to do the conversion

If you didn’t break the problem down enough, try going back to the second step and being as meticulous as possible.  Write out each and every single step.  I know it is a pain, but do it, believe me it will be worth the effort.

If you don’t know your programming language well enough to do the translation, you may need to brush up here on some basic constructs.  Any language you expect to be able to solve algorithm type problems in, you should know how to do the following things:

• Create a list
• Sort a list or array
• Create a map or dictionary
• Loop through a list, or dictionary
• Parse strings
• Convert from string to int, int to string, etc

If you don’t know how to do all of these things.  Stop what you are doing now and learn them. It’s not a very long list, and the benefits will be profound.

Optimize the real code

Sometimes this step isn’t necessary, but it’s worth taking a look at your code and figuring out if you can cut out a few lines or do something simpler.

This is also a good place to make sure all your variables are named with long meaningful names.  I cannot stress enough how important having good names for your variables and methods is for helping the person evaluating your code to understand what you were trying to do.  This is especially important when you make a mistake!

I won’t give an optimization for our trivial example of a string reversal, but a word of advice here is not to get too tricky.  Just try to mainly simplify your code and get rid of duplication.

A few final tips

If you follow this template for solving algorithm type problem, you should do very well in programming interviews, but the key to doing so is having confidence in this process.

The only way you are going to have confidence in this process is to practice it.  It takes a good amount of faith to believe that spending 70% of your 30 minutes to solve a problem just thinking about the problem and not writing any code is the right approach, so make sure you have that faith when you need it.

I’ve talked about using TopCoder to become a better programmer before, and I still recommend it.  Codility.com is another great site I have recently been introduced to.

There is one important step I did not include in the outline above, because I didn’t want to make the process any more complicated than it needed to be.

Many times you will find that a problem itself involves multiple large steps or is very complicated.  In those instances, you will want to try and find a way to cut the problem directly in half and then following the process above for each half.

This method of tackling a problem is called “divide and conquer” and is quite effective.  A good way to know where to break a problem in half is to think about what part of the problem if already given to you would make solving the rest easy.

The programming interview is merely one battle in a larger war: marketing yourself. For the full lowdown, take a look at my course: How to Market Yourself as a Software Developer .

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Lesson 27 of 34 By Hemant Deshpande

Table of Contents

Coding and Programming skills hold a significant and critical role in implementing and developing various technologies and software. They add more value to the future and development. These programming and coding skills are essential for every person to improve problem solving skills. So, we brought you this article to help you learn and know the importance of these skills in the future. 

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Topics covered in this problem solving in programming article are:

• What is Problem Solving in Programming? 
• Problem Solving skills in Programming
• How does it impact your career ?
• Steps involved in Problem Solving
• Steps to improve Problem Solving in programming

What is Problem Solving in Programming?

Computers are used to solve various problems in day-to-day life. Problem Solving is an essential skill that helps to solve problems in programming. There are specific steps to be carried out to solve problems in computer programming, and the success depends on how correctly and precisely we define a problem. This involves designing, identifying and implementing problems using certain steps to develop a computer.

When we know what exactly problem solving in programming is, let us learn how it impacts your career growth.

How Does It Impact Your Career?

Many companies look for candidates with excellent problem solving skills. These skills help people manage the work and make candidates put more effort into the work, which results in finding solutions for complex problems in unexpected situations. These skills also help to identify quick solutions when they arise and are identified. 

People with great problem solving skills also possess more thinking and analytical skills, which makes them much more successful and confident in their career and able to work in any kind of environment. 

The above section gives you an idea of how problem solving in programming impacts your career and growth. Now, let's understand what problem solving skills mean.

Problem Solving Skills in Programming

Solving a question that is related to computers is more complicated than finding the solutions for other questions. It requires excellent knowledge and much thinking power. Problem solving in programming skills is much needed for a person and holds a major advantage. For every question, there are specific steps to be followed to get a perfect solution. By using those steps, it is possible to find a solution quickly.

The above section is covered with an explanation of problem solving in programming skills. Now let's learn some steps involved in problem solving.

Steps Involved in Problem Solving

Before being ready to solve a problem, there are some steps and procedures to be followed to find the solution. Let's have a look at them in this problem solving in programming article.

Basically, they are divided into four categories:

• Analysing the problem
• Developing the algorithm
• Testing and debugging

Analysing the Problem

Every problem has a perfect solution; before we are ready to solve a problem, we must look over the question and understand it. When we know the question, it is easy to find the solution for it. If we are not ready with what we have to solve, then we end up with the question and cannot find the answer as expected. By analysing it, we can figure out the outputs and inputs to be carried out. Thus, when we analyse and are ready with the list, it is easy and helps us find the solution easily. 

Developing the Algorithm

It is required to decide a solution before writing a program. The procedure of representing the solution  in a natural language called an algorithm. We must design, develop and decide the final approach after a number of trials and errors, before actually writing the final code on an algorithm before we write the code. It captures and refines all the aspects of the desired solution.

Once we finalise the algorithm, we must convert the decided algorithm into a code or program using a dedicated programming language that is understandable by the computer to find a desired solution. In this stage, a wide variety of programming languages are used to convert the algorithm into code. 

Testing and Debugging

The designed and developed program undergoes several rigorous tests based on various real-time parameters and the program undergoes various levels of simulations. It must meet the user's requirements, which have to respond with the required time. It should generate all expected outputs to all the possible inputs. The program should also undergo bug fixing and all possible exception handling. If it fails to show the possible results, it should be checked for logical errors.

Industries follow some testing methods like system testing, component testing and acceptance testing while developing complex applications. The errors identified while testing are debugged or rectified and tested again until all errors are removed from the program.

The steps mentioned above are involved in problem solving in programming. Now let's see some more detailed information about the steps to improve problem solving in programming.

Steps to Improve Problem Solving in Programming

Right mindset.

The way to approach problems is the key to improving the skills. To find a solution, a positive mindset helps to solve problems quickly. If you think something is impossible, then it is hard to achieve. When you feel free and focus with a positive attitude, even complex problems will have a perfect solution.

Making Right Decisions

When we need to solve a problem, we must be clear with the solution. The perfect solution helps to get success in a shorter period. Making the right decisions in the right situation helps to find the perfect solution quickly and efficiently. These skills also help to get more command over the subject.

Keeping Ideas on Track

Ideas always help much in improving the skills; they also help to gain more knowledge and more command over things. In problem solving situations, these ideas help much and help to develop more skills. Give opportunities for the mind and keep on noting the ideas.

Learning from Feedbacks

A crucial part of learning is from the feedback. Mistakes help you to gain more knowledge and have much growth. When you have a solution for a problem, go for the feedback from the experienced or the professionals. It helps you get success within a shorter period and enables you to find other solutions easily.

Asking Questions

Questions are an incredible part of life. While searching for solutions, there are a lot of questions that arise in our minds. Once you know the question correctly, then you are able to find answers quickly. In coding or programming, we must have a clear idea about the problem. Then, you can find the perfect solution for it. Raising questions can help to understand the problem.

These are a few reasons and tips to improve problem solving in programming skills. Now let's see some major benefits in this article.

• Problem solving in programming skills helps to gain more knowledge over coding and programming, which is a major benefit.
• These problem solving skills also help to develop more skills in a person and build a promising career.
• These skills also help to find the solutions for critical and complex problems in a perfect way.
• Learning and developing problem solving in programming helps in building a good foundation.
• Most of the companies are looking for people with good problem solving skills, and these play an important role when it comes to job opportunities 

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Problem solving in programming skills is important in this modern world; these skills build a great career and hold a great advantage. This article on problem solving in programming provides you with an idea of how it plays a massive role in the present world. In this problem solving in programming article, the skills and the ways to improve more command on problem solving in programming are mentioned and explained in a proper way.

If you are looking to advance in your career. Simplilearn provides training and certification courses on various programming languages - Python , Java , Javascript , and many more. Check out our Full Stack Developer - MERN Stack course that will help you excel in your career.

If you have any questions for us on the problem solving in programming article. Do let us know in the comments section below; we have our experts answer it right away.

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About the Author

Hemant Deshpande, PMP has more than 17 years of experience working for various global MNC's. He has more than 10 years of experience in managing large transformation programs for Fortune 500 clients across verticals such as Banking, Finance, Insurance, Healthcare, Telecom and others. During his career he has worked across the geographies - North America, Europe, Middle East, and Asia Pacific. Hemant is an internationally Certified Executive Coach (CCA/ICF Approved) working with corporate leaders. He also provides Management Consulting and Training services. He is passionate about writing and regularly blogs and writes content for top websites. His motto in life - Making a positive difference.

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Fun Coding Problems: From Easy to Hard

Explore a range of fun coding problems that cater to all levels, from beginners to pros. Enhance your problem-solving abilities and sharpen your logical thinking in programming.

Looking to boost your coding skills or prepare for job interviews? Dive into these fun coding problems that cater to all levels, from beginners to pros. You'll find a mix of challenges that will test and enhance your problem-solving abilities in programming. Whether you're new to coding or honing your skills, these problems will provide a comprehensive workout for your brain.

Key Highlights:

Basics for Beginners : Start with simple tasks like 'Hello World' variations, basic math problems, and converting minutes to seconds.

Intermediate Challenges : Tackle array rotation, the Two Sum problem, and exercises that enhance your string manipulation abilities.

Advanced Adventures : Dive into complex challenges like balanced binary tree checks, in-order successor in BSTs, and alien dictionary ordering.

Expert-Level Enigmas : Push your limits with tasks involving distributed key-value stores, file compression with Huffman coding, and solving mazes with backtracking.

Technology-Specific Challenges : Sharpen your skills in web development, data science, and DevOps with targeted exercises.

Dive into these coding problems to sharpen your logical thinking and problem-solving skills in a fun and challenging way.

Getting Started: What You Need to Know

Before you jump into coding challenges , it's smart to get a good grip on the basics of programming. Here are a few things you should know first:

Learn Programming Basics

Start with the fundamentals such as:

What variables are and the different types (like text, numbers, true or false values)

How to use basic math and compare things

How to make decisions in your code with if statements

How to repeat actions with loops

How to group code into functions

Understanding simple lists and collections

Pick a Language

Start with one programming language. Some easy ones for beginners include:

Python - really friendly for beginners and easy to read

JavaScript - great for making websites interactive

Java - used in a lot of back-end development

C++ - a bit more complex but great for understanding how computers work

Learn the basics like how to show messages, use variables, types of data, and how to make functions.

Understand the Problem

When you see a coding problem:

Read it well to know what it's asking

Think about special cases and limits

Plan what inputs go in and what should come out

Figure out the steps before coding

Use Online Resources

If you're stuck, look up help like:

The official guides for the programming language

Stack Overflow for specific questions

Online tutorials for more practice

Start Simple

Try easy problems first, then slowly move to harder ones:

Work with variables, join texts

Do basic math, comparisons

Go through lists

Make functions that give back results

Understanding the basics well will make tackling harder problems easier.

Beginner-Friendly Challenges

1. hello world variations.

The first program most people learn in a new programming language is the "Hello World" program. It's a simple code that shows the message "Hello World" on your screen.

Here are some easy and fun ways to change up the Hello World program:

Try It in a Different Language

You can write "Hello World" in another language, like:

Spanish - "Hola Mundo"

French - "Bonjour le monde"

Japanese - "Kon'nichiwa sekai"

Make It About You

• Change "Hello World" to "Hello [Your Name]". Just replace [Your Name] with your actual name.

Say More Than Hello

• Add a new line with to say "Hello World" and then "Have a nice day!" right after.

Create a Picture

You can also use letters and symbols to draw something like:

Do It Over and Over

• Write a loop in your code to print "Hello World" 10 times.

These ideas are just the start. You can try out different things and see what fun you can have with printing messages!

2. Sum of Two Numbers

Let's tackle a basic math problem that's perfect for beginners. Here's what you need to do:

The Problem

Your task is to write a simple program. This program should ask for two numbers, then show you the total of these numbers.

Ask the user for two numbers.

Save these numbers in two spots, let's call them num1 and num2.

Add num1 and num2 together, and save this in a new spot called sum.

Show the user the sum.

Here's a way to do this in Python:

And if you're using JavaScript, it looks like this:

Make sure to change the user's input into numbers before adding them up.

Show the result in a way that's easy for the user to understand.

You can also check if the user actually entered numbers.

This simple problem helps you practice getting information from the user, doing something with it, and then showing the result. It's a good step to get comfortable with before you dive into more complicated programming challenges!

3. Convert Minutes into Seconds

Your job is to write a simple program that changes minutes into seconds. This means if someone tells you a number in minutes, your program will tell them what that number is in seconds.

First, ask the person using your program for a number in minutes. Let's put this number in a spot called minutes .

Since 1 minute is the same as 60 seconds, you just need to multiply the minutes by 60 to get the seconds.

Keep this answer in a new spot called seconds .

Finally, tell the person how many seconds that is.

Here's how you can do it in Python:

It's important to check if the minutes entered are a real number. This helps make sure your program works right.

When you share the result, make it clear, like saying "X minutes is Y seconds".

Learning to change one type of measurement to another is a useful skill in coding. It's a good way to get comfortable with basic math in programming and sets you up for more challenging tasks later on.

4. FizzBuzz

FizzBuzz is a well-known problem often found in coding interviews. It's a simple way to check your understanding of loops and conditions. Let's break it down:

You need to write a program that counts from 1 to 100. But, there's a twist:

For numbers that are multiples of 3, you should print "Fizz" instead.

For multiples of 5, print "Buzz".

And for numbers that are multiples of both 3 and 5, print "FizzBuzz".

Example Output

This pattern continues all the way to 100.

Create a loop that goes through numbers 1 to 100

Use the modulo operator (%) to check if a number is a multiple of 3, 5, or both

Depending on the result, print "Fizz", "Buzz", or "FizzBuzz"

If a number isn't a multiple of 3 or 5, just print the number itself

Code Example

Here's a simple way to do it in JavaScript:

And in Python, it looks like this:

Remember to check for multiples of 15 first because it means the number is both a multiple of 3 and 5.

The modulo operator (%) helps you find out if there's any remainder. It's key for checking multiples.

Make sure to print the right word or number based on the check.

FizzBuzz is a fun and straightforward challenge that helps you get better at controlling the flow of your program and using basic math operations. It's perfect for beginners!

5. Palindrome Checker

A palindrome is a word or phrase that reads the same backward as forward. Examples include "racecar", "madam", and even phrases like "nurses run" when you ignore the spaces.

Checking if something is a palindrome is a cool coding task. It involves flipping a sequence around and comparing it to the original. This challenge is a good way to practice handling text (strings), using loops, and making decisions in your code.

Let's dive into making a tool that can tell us if a word is a palindrome!

Your job is to write a program that can figure out if a given word is a palindrome. This means it should look the same whether you read it from the start or the end.

First, get the word from the user.

Next, create a version of the word that's spelled backward.

Then, see if the backward word is the same as the original.

If they match, it means the word is a palindrome, so show "true".

If they don't match, show "false".

Here's how you can check for palindromes in JavaScript:

And in Python:

Remember, the key here is to flip the word around and then compare. It's a simple yet effective way to practice coding basics.

This task lets you work with strings and understand how to manipulate them, which is a valuable skill in programming.

6. Find the Longest Word

This coding challenge is all about working with words in a sentence. It's a good exercise to get better at handling text.

Your task is to write a function that looks at a sentence and figures out which word is the longest. Then, it tells you how many letters that word has.

Example Input

"The quick brown fox jumped over the lazy dog"

6 (because "jumped" is the longest word)

Steps to Solve

Break the sentence into words

Go through each word, keeping track of the longest one you find

Share the number of letters in the longest word

Solution in JavaScript

Remember to think about special cases, like if there are no words or just one

You can use a loop or other methods like .reduce() to find the answer

This challenge is a good chance to practice basic programming skills and learn how to work with strings

Finding the longest word is a straightforward task that helps you get used to manipulating text and understanding simple algorithms. It's a great stepping stone to more complex challenges.

7. Sudoku Solver

Let's talk about how to make a program that can solve Sudoku puzzles. This is a cool way to get better at problem-solving and understanding how to use algorithms.

You have a Sudoku board that's partly filled in. Your goal is to complete the puzzle by filling in the empty spots.

Understanding Sudoku Rules

The board is 9x9 and split into 9 smaller 3x3 squares

Each row, column, and 3x3 square must have the numbers 1-9, with no repeats

Start with a Sudoku board that has some numbers already in place

Create a function to make sure a number fits in a spot without breaking the rules

Use a method called backtracking to fill in numbers. This means you try options until you find the right one

Keep going until all spots are filled

Backtracking Algorithm

This method involves trying different numbers in empty spots:

Pick an empty spot

Put in a number from 1-9 that fits

Move to the next spot and repeat

If you get stuck, go back and try a different number

Here's a simple way to solve Sudoku in Python using backtracking:

This code tries all the numbers that could fit until the puzzle is solved!

Picture the board to make solving easier

Use helper functions for rule checking

Keep your code clean and easy to read

Be ready for puzzles that can't be solved or have weird inputs

Solving Sudoku is a great way to work on your coding skills, especially with logic and algorithms!

8. Binary Search Trees

Binary search trees are a cool way to sort and find stuff quickly. Let's dive into some coding challenges that will help you get the hang of using binary search trees!

Your mission is to create functions that let you add, look for, and go through binary search trees. These tasks will help you understand how these trees work.

Key Things to Know

Each spot in the tree holds a value, and these spots are linked from top to bottom

The numbers on the left side are always smaller than their parent

The numbers on the right are always bigger

Searching is super fast, taking less time as the tree grows

Fun Challenges

1. Adding Values

Make a function that adds new numbers to the tree, keeping everything in order

Think about what to do if you add the same number twice or if the tree is empty

2. Looking for Values

Write a function to check if a certain number is in the tree

It should say 'true' if the number is there, and 'false' if not

Try to make the search as quick as possible

3. Walking Through the Tree

Show the numbers in the tree using different methods like pre-order, in-order, and post-order

Get to know the differences between these methods

4. How Tall is the Tree?

Figure out the tree's height (the longest path from top to bottom)

Find out the deepest part of the tree

5. Is the Tree Balanced?

See if the tree is balanced, meaning the heights of the left and right sides aren't too different

Say 'true' if it's balanced and 'false' if not

Tips for Solving

Picture the tree in your mind to see how the numbers link up

Break down the problems into smaller parts

Try your solutions with different numbers to see what happens

Learn the usual ways to go through a tree

Working with binary trees is a great way to boost your coding skills. These challenges are a fun way to learn about an important part of coding!

9. Efficient Prime Number Functions

Prime numbers are special numbers that can only be divided evenly by 1 and themselves. Some examples are 2, 3, 5, 7, 11, and so on. Knowing how to work with prime numbers is really useful, especially in fields like computer security and coding.

Here are some cool coding challenges to help you practice working with prime numbers in a smart way:

Basic Prime Checker

Write a function that checks if a number is prime. It should say 'true' if the number is prime and 'false' if it's not.

Make it faster by not checking every even number after 2.

Prime Number Generator

Create a function that gives you prime numbers one at a time, each time you ask for one.

Try to see how many primes you can get before it starts taking too long!

Sieve of Eratosthenes

Use the Sieve of Eratosthenes method to quickly find prime numbers. This method filters out non-prime numbers from a list, leaving only the primes.

It's a neat way to find a lot of primes fast.

Largest Prime Factor Finder

• Make a function that finds the biggest prime factor of a number. This means breaking the number into smaller parts until you find the biggest prime number among them.

Next Prime Number Finder

• Create a function that finds the next prime number that's bigger than a number you give it. This is handy for things like creating secure keys.

Remember to think about unusual cases, like when the number is negative or is 0 or 1.

Use division and factor checking to see if a number is prime.

Try using memoization, which is a way to remember previous results, to make your code run faster.

Test how fast your functions are to find the quickest method!

Playing around with prime numbers is a great way to get better at coding. These challenges help you think about how to solve problems efficiently.

10. Writing a Program to Play a Perfect Game of Tic-Tac-Toe

Tic-tac-toe is a simple game we all know. The idea of making a computer program that can play tic-tac-toe without ever losing is an interesting challenge!

Your task is to create a program that always plays tic-tac-toe to at least a draw. The program needs to be smart enough to make its moves, see where the human player has gone, and decide the best move to make next.

Understanding the Rules

The game is played on a 3x3 grid.

Players take turns putting their mark (X or O) in an empty space.

The first player to line up three of their marks in a row, column, or diagonal wins.

Create a 3x3 grid to represent the game board.

Notice when the human player makes a move.

Program how the computer decides its move:

Try to win on the next move.

If it can't win, block the other player from winning.

Otherwise, choose the best available spot.

Keep an eye on the board to help make decisions.

Figure out when someone wins or if it's a tie.

Here's a basic Python example for a tic-tac-toe game:

This code shows the basics of making decisions and playing smartly. With the right steps, the computer can always play well!

Think about all the possible ways the game can go.

Break the problem down into smaller parts to make it easier.

Try playing against your program to see how well it does.

Making a computer play tic-tac-toe perfectly is a great way to practice coding. It's fun and challenging, so why not give it a shot?

11. Topological Sort Implementation

Topological sort is a way to organize the steps or tasks in a project when some steps depend on others. Imagine you're trying to make breakfast. You can't eat your toast until you've toasted your bread, and you can't toast your bread until you've got the bread out of the pantry. Topological sort helps you list out these steps in the right order.

You have a list of tasks and the order they need to be done in. Your job is to arrange these tasks so that each task is done before the ones that depend on it.

Understanding Topological Sort

It's like making a to-do list for a project.

Important points:

You have tasks (nodes) and dependencies (edges).

Start with tasks that don't depend on anything else.

Keep going until all tasks are on your list.

You'll end up with a list that makes sure you do everything in the right order.

Use a list to show what tasks depend on each other.

Make an empty list for your final order of tasks.

Create a helper function to visit each task:

Mark it as in process.

Visit all the tasks that need to be done before this one.

Add this task to your final list.

Mark it as done.

Start with tasks that don't have any prerequisites.

Here's a simple way to do it in Python:

This code goes through each task, making sure all its prerequisites are done first, before adding it to the final list. It's a neat way to organize tasks to make sure everything gets done in the right order.

12. Randomize Line Sequence in a File

Let's dive into a coding task that's all about mixing up the lines in a text file. This can be handy when you need to shuffle data around for tests or just want to change the order of things for fun.

Imagine you have a text file filled with lines of text. Your challenge is to write a program that scrambles these lines into a random order.

Example File

Open the file to get all the lines inside it

Put these lines into a list

Mix up the list so the order of the lines is random

Save these mixed-up lines into a new file

Code Solution

Here's how you can do this in Python:

And if you're using JavaScript:

Make sure to check for any errors when opening or saving files

It's important to truly shuffle the lines for a random result

Try this with files of various sizes to see how it works

Shuffling the order of lines in a file is a simple yet effective way to work with data differently. It's a great exercise for practicing basic coding skills.

Intermediate Challenges

Here are some coding challenges that are a bit more advanced. These will make you think harder and help you become better at solving problems. If you're ready to step up from the basics, these are for you.

1. Array Rotation

This challenge is about moving numbers around in a list. It's useful for rearranging data.

You have a list of numbers. You need to move the numbers to the right by a certain amount. The user will tell you how many times.

Get the list and the number of shifts.

Copy the original list.

Use a loop to move values from the start to the end, as many times as needed.

Return the new list.

In JavaScript:

2. Two Sum Problem

The Two Sum problem is a classic. It's great for working on your problem-solving skills.

You have a list of numbers and a target sum. Find two numbers that add up to the target and return their positions.

Go through the list.

For each number, figure out what you need to add to it to get the target.

See if that number is also in the list.

If yes, return their positions.

Code Examples

JavaScript:

3. Integer to Roman Numeral Converter

Changing numbers into Roman numerals is a fun string challenge.

Turn a whole number into a Roman numeral.

Understanding Roman Numerals

Split the number into thousands, hundreds, tens, and ones.

Change each part into Roman symbols.

Follow subtraction rules (like 4 is IV, not IIII).

4. Validating Email Addresses

Checking if an email address is valid is a useful skill.

Make sure an email address follows these rules:

Has one @ symbol

The part before @ doesn't start or end with . or -

The part after @ ends in .com, .net, or .org

If it does, say 'Valid'. If not, say 'Invalid'.

Split the email by @.

Check the first part for . or - at the start or end.

Make sure the second part ends in .com, .net, or .org.

If all good, return "Valid".

5. Pyramid Pattern Printing

Printing pyramid patterns is a fun way to practice loops.

Create a half pyramid of stars based on the number of rows.

Get the number of rows.

Use loops to add stars for each row.

Print each row.

6. Find Missing Number in Array

Finding a missing number in a list is a good brain teaser.

You have an unsorted list from 1 to 100, but one number is missing. Find it.

Sort the list.

Go through it and look for a gap in the sequence.

If you find a gap, the missing number is the one that should be there.

Sorting the list helps you see where the sequence breaks.

I hope these challenges give you a fun way to practice your coding. Try them out and see how you do.

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Advanced challenges.

Here are some harder coding problems for those looking to push their skills further:

Balanced Binary Tree Checker

We need to write a function that checks if a binary tree is balanced.

A tree is balanced if the heights of the left and right sides don't differ by more than one for all nodes.

In-Order Successor in a Binary Search Tree

Your job is to write a function that finds the next node in order for a given node in a binary search tree.

Think of it as finding the next number in line that comes after the given one.

Lowest Common Ancestor in a Binary Tree

Find the lowest common ancestor of two nodes in a binary tree.

This is the furthest back node where both nodes are still part of its "family".

Alien Dictionary Ordering

Imagine you have a dictionary from an alien language, but the words are sorted like in English.

Your task is to figure out the order of letters in the alien language and write it down as a string.

Regular Expression Matcher

Write a function that checks if a string matches a given pattern.

The pattern can include '.' and '*' which are special symbols with their own rules.

Serialize and Deserialize Binary Trees

You need to create functions that can turn a binary tree into a string and then turn that string back into a tree.

This process is about converting the tree into a format that can be saved or shared.

Tackling these advanced challenges is a fantastic way to get better at coding. Break them into smaller parts and test your work. Remember, practice makes perfect, so keep at it!

Expert-Level Enigmas

These advanced coding challenges are tough but exciting. They'll really make you think and push your coding abilities to the limit. Let's dive into some puzzles that involve tricky algorithms and creative thinking.

Finding the Kth Largest Element

Imagine you have a list of numbers that's all mixed up, and you need to find the kth biggest number in it.

Here are some ways to tackle this:

You could sort the list and then pick the kth number from the end.

Use a special list called a min-heap that keeps track of the biggest numbers you've seen so far.

Try the Quickselect method, which is a bit like sorting but you only focus on one part of the list.

Try this on big lists of numbers and think about how fast your solution is and how much space it uses.

Shortest Remaining Time First Scheduling

This is about making a plan for tasks that need computer time. You get information like when each task arrives and how long it needs.

Your job is to:

Keep tasks in order based on how much time they need to finish.

Pick the task with the least time left when the computer is free.

If a more important task comes in, switch to it.

Try to make the wait time and the total time tasks take as short as possible.

Solving a Maze with Backtracking

Create a program that can find its way out of a maze using a method called backtracking. Think of the maze as a big grid with walls and open paths.

The key ideas are:

Mark places you've been to avoid going in circles.

Have a clear stopping point for the program.

Remember paths you've tried so you don't repeat them.

You can also try to show the path, make the maze harder or easier, or find faster ways to solve it.

Compressing Files with Huffman Coding

This is about making files smaller using a method called Huffman coding. It looks at how often characters appear and creates a special tree to represent them in a shorter way.

Here's how:

Count how often each character appears.

Merge the least common characters using a priority queue.

Walk through the tree to assign short codes to each character.

Use these codes to write a smaller version of the file.

Think about how you could use this for different types of files, not just text.

Simulating a Distributed Key-Value Store

Try building a system that stores data across many computers. It should handle dividing data, copying it for safety, and keeping everything up to date.

How to split data and move it around when needed.

Choosing leaders and agreeing on data values.

Finding and fixing failures.

Speeding things up with caching and fixing mistakes.

Adjusting how strict you are with making sure data is the same everywhere.

This challenge covers a lot of ideas about how computers work together, like CAP theorem and gossip protocols.

These tough challenges are great for learning. Break them into smaller parts, test everything carefully, and keep trying. Solving these will help you get really good at solving complex problems and designing systems.

Technology-Specific Challenges

In this part, we're going to talk about coding exercises that focus on certain areas of technology. These tasks are all about practicing and getting better at specific tech skills like making websites, working with data, or managing servers.

Web Development

Try making a webpage that looks good on any device using Flexbox or CSS Grid

Build a sign-up form that checks the info right on the page

Create a photo gallery where you can smoothly scroll through images

Make a basic calculator with buttons you can click

Set up a timer that counts down to a specific event

Develop an app that shows the weather for your location

Build a task list app where you can add, edit, and delete items

Create a quiz game that gets questions from an online source

Make a messaging app where you can chat in real time

Set up a simple web server that says "Hello World"

Make an API that can handle creating, reading, updating, and deleting data

Develop an app that stores form submissions in a database

Data Science & Analysis

Use charts to show data with Matplotlib

Try to guess house prices with machine learning

Use a neural network to tell if a picture is of a cat or a dog

Analyze survey data with graphs and dashboards

Predict future sales from past data

Understand what customers feel by analyzing text

Use queries to sort, summarize, and organize data

Make views and stored procedures to make tasks easier

Find and fix slow database queries

Use Bash scripts to check on disk space and memory

Manage users, groups, and permissions

Set up a web server with Linux, Nginx, MySQL, and PHP

Put an app into a container and run it on your computer

Upload your custom app images to Docker Hub

Start a complex app with many parts using Docker Compose

Run containers on a bunch of machines

Manage settings, secrets, and storage

Keep an eye on your apps and servers

Starting with simple tasks and gradually taking on more challenging ones is a good way to learn. The main thing is to keep practicing.

Working on coding problems is a great way to get better at solving tricky questions, learn about different ways to solve problems, and even get ready for job interviews. Starting with simple puzzles and then trying harder ones can help you feel more confident and understand programming better.

Here are some important points:

Try solving different coding problems often to keep your skills sharp. Try a mix of easy and hard problems.

Break big problems into smaller pieces. Go through examples step by step.

Practice more on websites that offer coding challenges. Many of these sites have discussion boards where you can learn from others.

Focus on getting really good at basic stuff like loops, how to use lists, and learning common problem-solving steps. These basics are super important.

If you find some problems tough, don't give up. Keep trying and learn from what went wrong.

After you solve a problem, look at other solutions. See how they compare to yours.

Use what you learn in coding challenges on your own projects. This is a good way to make sure you really understand it.

Make a regular schedule for practicing coding. Sticking to it is key.

Getting really good at coding problems takes time and a lot of practice. Be patient with yourself, think hard about both what went well and what didn't, and keep going. Happy coding!

Related Questions

What is the hardest code to learn.

Malbolge is known for being super hard to learn because it's made to be confusing on purpose. It uses a unique kind of notation and its rules are really complex. Getting good at Malbolge takes a lot of patience and hard work.

What is the most complex code ever written?

The systems used by the Social Security Administration to figure out retirement benefits and track earnings over a lifetime are super complex. They're written in Cobol and have more than 60 million lines of code that have been added over many years. Updating or fixing these systems is a big challenge because of how complicated they are.

What are some of the difficulties with codes?

When learning or teaching coding, some common challenges include:

Keeping students interested and motivated

Teaching both the coding language and how to solve problems

Helping students deal with failure and frustration

Balancing how much time is spent staring at screens

Good coding education helps students learn the technical stuff while also applying it to real life and building other important skills.

What are the best code challenge sites?

Here are some great websites for coding challenges:

HackerRank - Offers challenges of different levels and some sponsored by companies

LeetCode - Great for preparing for technical job interviews with a community to discuss solutions

Codewars - A fun, game-like site that's good for beginners to learn various programming languages

HackerEarth - Hosts competitions and challenges for hiring

Codility - Used by companies to test candidates with coding tasks

The best website for you depends on what you're looking to achieve, your skill level, and what kind of programming you're interested in.

Related posts

• Navigating Competitive Programming Challenges
• Choosing Competitive Programming Websites for Beginners
• Best Programming Challenge Websites for Remote Developers
• 5 Fun Coding Problems

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15 Common Problem-Solving Interview Questions

In an interview for a big tech company, I was asked if I’d ever resolved a fight — and the exact way I went about handling it. I felt blindsided, and I stammered my way through an excuse of an answer.

It’s a familiar scenario to fellow technical job seekers — and one that risks leaving a sour taste in our mouths. As candidate experience becomes an increasingly critical component of the hiring process, recruiters need to ensure the problem-solving interview questions they prepare don’t dissuade talent in the first place. 

Interview questions designed to gauge a candidate’s problem-solving skills are more often than not challenging and vague. Assessing a multifaceted skill like problem solving is tricky — a good problem solver owns the full solution and result, researches well, solves creatively and takes action proactively. 

It’s hard to establish an effective way to measure such a skill. But it’s not impossible.

We recommend taking an informed and prepared approach to testing candidates’ problem-solving skills . With that in mind, here’s a list of a few common problem-solving interview questions, the science behind them — and how you can go about administering your own problem-solving questions with the unique challenges of your organization in mind.

Key Takeaways for Effective Problem-Solving Interview Questions

• Problem solving lies at the heart of programming. 
• Testing a candidate’s problem-solving skills goes beyond the IDE. Problem-solving interview questions should test both technical skills and soft skills.
• STAR, SOAR and PREP are methods a candidate can use to answer some non-technical problem-solving interview questions.
• Generic problem-solving interview questions go a long way in gauging a candidate’s fit. But you can go one step further by customizing them according to your company’s service, product, vision, and culture. 

Technical Problem-Solving Interview Question Examples

Evaluating a candidates’ problem-solving skills while using coding challenges might seem intimidating. The secret is that coding challenges test many things at the same time — like the candidate’s knowledge of data structures and algorithms, clean code practices, and proficiency in specific programming languages, to name a few examples.

Problem solving itself might at first seem like it’s taking a back seat. But technical problem solving lies at the heart of programming, and most coding questions are designed to test a candidate’s problem-solving abilities.

Here are a few examples of technical problem-solving questions:

1. Mini-Max Sum  

This well-known challenge, which asks the interviewee to find the maximum and minimum sum among an array of given numbers, is based on a basic but important programming concept called sorting, as well as integer overflow. It tests the candidate’s observational skills, and the answer should elicit a logical, ad-hoc solution.

2. Organizing Containers of Balls  

This problem tests the candidate’s knowledge of a variety of programming concepts, like 2D arrays, sorting and iteration. Organizing colored balls in containers based on various conditions is a common question asked in competitive examinations and job interviews, because it’s an effective way to test multiple facets of a candidate’s problem-solving skills.

3. Build a Palindrome

This is a tough problem to crack, and the candidate’s knowledge of concepts like strings and dynamic programming plays a significant role in solving this challenge. This problem-solving example tests the candidate’s ability to think on their feet as well as their ability to write clean, optimized code.

4. Subarray Division

Based on a technique used for searching pairs in a sorted array ( called the “two pointers” technique ), this problem can be solved in just a few lines and judges the candidate’s ability to optimize (as well as basic mathematical skills).

5. The Grid Search 

This is a problem of moderate difficulty and tests the candidate’s knowledge of strings and searching algorithms, the latter of which is regularly tested in developer interviews across all levels.

Common Non-Technical Problem-Solving Interview Questions 

Testing a candidate’s problem-solving skills goes beyond the IDE . Everyday situations can help illustrate competency, so here are a few questions that focus on past experiences and hypothetical situations to help interviewers gauge problem-solving skills.

1. Given the problem of selecting a new tool to invest in, where and how would you begin this task? 

Key Insight : This question offers insight into the candidate’s research skills. Ideally, they would begin by identifying the problem, interviewing stakeholders, gathering insights from the team, and researching what tools exist to best solve for the team’s challenges and goals. 

2. Have you ever recognized a potential problem and addressed it before it occurred? 

Key Insight: Prevention is often better than cure. The ability to recognize a problem before it occurs takes intuition and an understanding of business needs. 

3. A teammate on a time-sensitive project confesses that he’s made a mistake, and it’s putting your team at risk of missing key deadlines. How would you respond?

Key Insight: Sometimes, all the preparation in the world still won’t stop a mishap. Thinking on your feet and managing stress are skills that this question attempts to unearth. Like any other skill, they can be cultivated through practice.

4. Tell me about a time you used a unique problem-solving approach. 

Key Insight: Creativity can manifest in many ways, including original or novel ways to tackle a problem. Methods like the 10X approach and reverse brainstorming are a couple of unique approaches to problem solving. 

5. Have you ever broken rules for the “greater good?” If yes, can you walk me through the situation?

Key Insight: “Ask for forgiveness, not for permission.” It’s unconventional, but in some situations, it may be the mindset needed to drive a solution to a problem.

6. Tell me about a weakness you overcame at work, and the approach you took. 

Key Insight: According to Compass Partnership , “self-awareness allows us to understand how and why we respond in certain situations, giving us the opportunity to take charge of these responses.” It’s easy to get overwhelmed when faced with a problem. Candidates showing high levels of self-awareness are positioned to handle it well.

7. Have you ever owned up to a mistake at work? Can you tell me about it?

Key Insight: Everybody makes mistakes. But owning up to them can be tough, especially at a workplace. Not only does it take courage, but it also requires honesty and a willingness to improve, all signs of 1) a reliable employee and 2) an effective problem solver.

8. How would you approach working with an upset customer?

Key Insight: With the rise of empathy-driven development and more companies choosing to bridge the gap between users and engineers, today’s tech teams speak directly with customers more frequently than ever before. This question brings to light the candidate’s interpersonal skills in a client-facing environment.

9. Have you ever had to solve a problem on your own, but needed to ask for additional help? How did you go about it? 

Key Insight: Knowing when you need assistance to complete a task or address a situation is an important quality to have while problem solving. This questions helps the interviewer get a sense of the candidate’s ability to navigate those waters. 

10. Let’s say you disagree with your colleague on how to move forward with a project. How would you go about resolving the disagreement?

Key Insight: Conflict resolution is an extremely handy skill for any employee to have; an ideal answer to this question might contain a brief explanation of the conflict or situation, the role played by the candidate and the steps taken by them to arrive at a positive resolution or outcome. 

Strategies for Answering Problem-Solving Questions

If you’re a job seeker, chances are you’ll encounter this style of question in your various interview experiences. While problem-solving interview questions may appear simple, they can be easy to fumble — leaving the interviewer without a clear solution or outcome. 

It’s important to approach such questions in a structured manner. Here are a few tried-and-true methods to employ in your next problem-solving interview.

1. Shine in Interviews With the STAR Method

S ituation, T ask, A ction, and R esult is a great method that can be employed to answer a problem-solving or behavioral interview question. Here’s a breakdown of these steps:

• Situation : A good way to address almost any interview question is to lay out and define the situation and circumstances. 
• Task : Define the problem or goal that needs to be addressed. Coding questions are often multifaceted, so this step is particularly important when answering technical problem-solving questions.
• Action : How did you go about solving the problem? Try to be as specific as possible, and state your plan in steps if you can.
• Result : Wrap it up by stating the outcome achieved. 

2. Rise above difficult questions using the SOAR method

A very similar approach to the STAR method, SOAR stands for S ituation, O bstacle, A ction, and R esults .

• Situation: Explain the state of affairs. It’s important to steer clear of stating any personal opinions in this step; focus on the facts.
• Obstacle: State the challenge or problem you faced.
• Action: Detail carefully how you went about overcoming this obstacle.
• Result: What was the end result? Apart from overcoming the obstacle, did you achieve anything else? What did you learn in the process? 

3. Do It the PREP Way

Traditionally used as a method to make effective presentations, the P oint, R eason, E xample, P oint method can also be used to answer problem-solving interview questions.  

• Point : State the solution in plain terms. 
• Reasons: Follow up the solution by detailing your case — and include any data or insights that support your solution. 
• Example: In addition to objective data and insights, drive your answer home by contextualizing the solution in a real-world example.
• Point : Reiterate the solution to make it come full circle.

How to Customize Problem-Solving Interview Questions 

Generic problem-solving interview questions go a long way in gauging a candidate’s skill level, but recruiters can go one step further by customizing these problem-solving questions according to their company’s service, product, vision, or culture. 

Here are some tips to do so:

• Break down the job’s responsibilities into smaller tasks. Job descriptions may contain ambiguous responsibilities like “manage team projects effectively.” To formulate an effective problem-solving question, envision what this task might look like in a real-world context and develop a question around it.  
• Tailor questions to the role at hand. Apart from making for an effective problem-solving question, it gives the candidate the impression you’re an informed technical recruiter. For example, an engineer will likely have attended many scrums. So, a good question to ask is: “Suppose you notice your scrums are turning unproductive. How would you go about addressing this?” 
• Consider the tools and technologies the candidate will use on the job. For example, if Jira is the primary project management tool, a good problem-solving interview question might be: “Can you tell me about a time you simplified a complex workflow — and the tools you used to do so?”
• If you don’t know where to start, your company’s core values can often provide direction. If one of the core values is “ownership,” for example, consider asking a question like: “Can you walk us through a project you owned from start to finish?” 
• Sometimes, developing custom content can be difficult even with all these tips considered. Our platform has a vast selection of problem-solving examples that are designed to help recruiters ask the right questions to help nail their next technical interview.

Get started with HackerRank

Over 2,500 companies and 40% of developers worldwide use HackerRank to hire tech talent and sharpen their skills.

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Solving Basic Programming Problems is the key to achieve success in coding challenges. Students must practice these basic programming problems!

Basic Programming Problems: Engaging in code challenges offers many benefits, serving as a dynamic tool to enhance problem-solving proficiency, deepen your comprehension of the programming language you work with, and acquaint yourself with diverse algorithms. If you aspire to elevate your programming skills, immersing yourself in coding is the most effective avenue.

The beauty of basic programming problems lies in their convenience—they provide a platform to hone your abilities through bite-sized problems, often eliminating the need to construct entire applications. This characteristic allows you to conquer these challenges swiftly, fostering a sense of accomplishment.

Moreover, code challenges are integral components of many coding interviews.

While your resume may showcase your skills and ability to articulate programming concepts, employers want to validate your practical coding capabilities. Tackling coding challenges during interviews becomes a testament to your proficiency and showcases your competence for the role.

Therefore, incorporating coding challenges into your routine sharpens your skills and is an invaluable preparation strategy for job interviews. To kickstart your coding journey, we have curated a collection of popular basic programming problems to pave the way for your continued growth.

Table of Contents

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• DSA Java Course

Basic Programming Problems Overview

Basic programming problems provide an essential foundation for individuals learning to code, offering a practical and hands-on approach to mastering fundamental concepts in programming.

These problems are designed to introduce beginners to the core coding principles, gradually building their problem-solving skills and comprehension of programming logic.

Whether you are a novice looking to embark on your coding journey or an experienced programmer aiming to reinforce your foundational knowledge, engaging with basic programming problems is a valuable practice.

These problems typically cover essential topics such as data types, loops, conditionals, functions, and basic algorithms, providing a well-rounded introduction to the key building blocks of programming.

The significance of basic programming problems extends beyond mere skill development; it serves as a stepping stone for individuals aspiring to pursue more advanced coding challenges and projects.

By grappling with these foundational problems, learners can cultivate a solid understanding of programming fundamentals, laying the groundwork for future exploration and mastery of more complex coding concepts. Basic programming problems are the cornerstone of a programmer’s educational journey, fostering a strong and resilient coding skill set.

Basic Programming Problems for Beginners

Starting your career in the programming field is  exciting and challenging. For beginners, mastering the basics is crucial, and what better way to do so than by solving basic programming problems ?

Basic Programming Problems Java

Here are some of the basic programming problems JAVA :

1) Hello World:

public class HelloWorld {

    public static void main(String[] args) {

        System.out.println(“Hello, World!”);

2) The sum of Two Numbers:

Add two numbers and print the result.

public class Sum {

        int num1 = 5, num2 = 10, sum;

        sum = num1 + num2;

        System.out.println(“Sum: ” + sum);

3) Factorial of a Number:

Calculate the factorial of a number.

public class Factorial {

        int num = 5;

        long factorial = 1;

        for (int i = 1; i <= num; ++i) {

            factorial *= i;

        System.out.println(“Factorial: ” + factorial);

4) Check Even or Odd:

Determine if a number is even or odd.

public class EvenOdd {

        int num = 8;

        if (num % 2 == 0) {

            System.out.println(num + ” is even.”);

        } else {

            System.out.println(num + ” is odd.”);

5) Reverse a String:

Reverse the characters in a given string.

public class ReverseString {

        String str = “Hello”;

        StringBuilder reversed = new StringBuilder(str).reverse();

        System.out.println(“Reversed String: ” + reversed);

Here are some theory-based basic programming problems Java:

1) Differences Between C++ and Java

• C++: Not platform-independent, follows “write once, compile anywhere.”
• Java: Platform-independent byte code allows programs to run on any machine.

Languages Compatibility:

• C++: Compatible with most high-level languages.
• Java: Incompatible with most languages, comparable to C and C++.

Interaction with the Library:

• C++: Direct access to native system libraries, suitable for system-level programming.
• Java: Requires Java Native Interface or library access, not direct call support.

Characteristics:

• C++: Combines features of procedural and object-oriented languages.
• Java: Known for automatic garbage collection, lacks support for destructors.

Semantics of the Type:

• C++: Consistent semantics for primitive and object types.
• Java: Inconsistent semantics between primitive and object types and classes.

Compiler and Interpreter:

• Java: Compiled and interpreted language, source code compiles into platform-independent bytecode.
• C++: Purely compiled language, source program compiles into object code, further executed.

2) Features of the Java Programming Language:

• Easy: Java is considered easy to learn, with fundamental Object-Oriented Programming (OOP) concepts.
• Secured Feature: Java provides a secured feature, ensuring the development of virus-free and tamper-free systems.
• OOP: Java follows Object-Oriented Programming, treating everything as an object.
• Independent Platform: Java compiles into platform-independent bytecode, interpreted by the Virtual Machine.

3) ClassLoader in Java:

• A ClassLoader in Java is a subsystem of the Java Virtual Machine responsible for loading class files during program execution.
• It is the first to load the executable file and includes Bootstrap, Extension, and Application classloaders.

4) Differences Between Heap and Stack Memory in Java:

• Stack Memory: Allocated to each individual program. Fixed memory space.
• Heap Memory: Not assigned to Java code initially but available during runtime. Used as needed by the Java code.

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• Hands-On Learning: Immerse yourself in practical, hands-on exercises that reinforce theoretical concepts. Through coding exercises and projects, you’ll apply your knowledge, fostering a deeper understanding of both Java and DSA.
• Expert Guidance: Benefit from expert guidance provided by seasoned instructors with extensive industry experience. Learn industry best practices and gain insights into the practical applications of Java and DSA.

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Basic Programming Problems in C

The table below shows the basic programming problems in C :

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Basic Programming Problems in Python

In addition to introducing you to Python’s syntax and structure, tackling basic programming problems in Python helps you improve your problem-solving skills. With tasks ranging from basic logic puzzles to intricate algorithmic difficulties, these issues offer an interactive method of learning Python and put you on the route to becoming a skilled programmer.

Basic Programming Problems in Javascript

Whether you aim to enhance your web development skills or explore the vast world of JavaScript applications, these problems cater to beginners, guiding them through the foundational aspects of programming in this versatile language. Below table showcases the basic programming problems in Javascript :

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Basic Programming Problems and Solutions

Here are 10 basic programming problems along with their solutions:

• Hello World:

Problem: Write a program that prints “Hello, World!” to the console.

Solution (Python):

print(“Hello, World!”)

• Sum of Two Numbers:

Problem: Write a program that inputs two numbers and prints their sum.

Solution (Java):

import java.util.Scanner;

public class SumOfTwoNumbers {

        Scanner scanner = new Scanner(System.in);

        System.out.print(“Enter first number: “);

        int num1 = scanner.nextInt();

        System.out.print(“Enter second number: “);

        int num2 = scanner.nextInt();

        int sum = num1 + num2;

• Factorial of a Number:

Problem: Write a program to calculate the factorial of a given number.

Solution (C++):

#include <iostream>

using namespace std;

int factorial(int n) {

    if (n == 0 || n == 1)

        return 1;

        return n * factorial(n – 1);

int main() {

    int num;

    cout << “Enter a number: “;

    cin >> num;

    cout << “Factorial: ” << factorial(num) << endl;

    return 0;

• Check Even or Odd:

Problem: Write a program that checks if a given number is even or odd.

Solution (JavaScript):

let number = 7;

if (number % 2 === 0) {

    console.log(number + ” is even”);

    console.log(number + ” is odd”);

• Reverse a String:

Problem: Write a program to reverse a given string.

original_string = “Hello, World!”

reversed_string = original_string[::-1]

print(“Reversed String:”, reversed_string)

• Fibonacci Series:

Problem: Generate the Fibonacci series up to a specific limit.

public class FibonacciSeries {

        int limit = 10;

        int firstTerm = 0, secondTerm = 1;

        System.out.println(“Fibonacci Series up to ” + limit + ” terms:”);

        for (int i = 1; i <= limit; ++i) {

            System.out.print(firstTerm + “, “);

            int nextTerm = firstTerm + secondTerm;

            firstTerm = secondTerm;

            secondTerm = nextTerm;

• Check Prime Number:

Problem: Write a program to check if a given number is prime.

def is_prime(number):

    if number > 1:

        for i in range(2, int(number / 2) + 1):

            if (number % i) == 0:

                return False

        else:

            return True

        return False

if is_prime(num):

    print(num, “is a prime number.”)

    print(num, “is not a prime number.”)

• Find Maximum Element:

Problem: Write a program to find the maximum element in an array.

int findMax(int arr[], int size) {

    int max = arr[0];

    for (int i = 1; i < size; ++i) {

        if (arr[i] > max) {

            max = arr[i];

    return max;

    int numbers[] = {5, 8, 2, 10, 3};

    int size = sizeof(numbers) / sizeof(numbers[0]);

    cout << “Maximum Element: ” << findMax(numbers, size) << endl;

• Palindrome Check:

Problem: Write a program to check if a given string is a palindrome.

public class PalindromeCheck {

        String str = “level”;

        String reversedStr = new StringBuilder(str).reverse().toString();

        if (str.equals(reversedStr)) {

            System.out.println(str + ” is a palindrome.”);

            System.out.println(str + ” is not a palindrome.”);

• Count Vowels and Consonants:

Problem: Write a program to count the number of vowels and consonants in a given string.

text = “Hello, World!”

vowels = “AEIOU

Benefits of Solving Basic Programming Problems

Solving basic programming problems offers numerous benefits for individuals looking to enhance their programming skills. Here are some key advantages:

Skill Development:

• Coding Proficiency: Regular problem-solving helps improve your coding skills and fluency in programming languages.
• Algorithmic Thinking: It fosters the development of algorithmic thinking, enabling you to devise efficient solutions to various problems.

Logical Thinking:

• Problem Decomposition: Breaking down problems into smaller components and solving them enhances logical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Pattern Recognition: Regular problem-solving helps in recognizing patterns and similarities between different problems, leading to more efficient solutions.

Learning New Concepts:

• Exposure to Diverse Topics: Programming problems often cover a wide range of concepts, exposing you to different areas of computer science and software development.
• New Algorithms and Data Structures: Exploring various problems introduces you to new algorithms and data structures, expanding your knowledge base.

Preparation for Interviews:

• Technical Interviews: Many technical interviews for programming roles involve solving algorithmic and coding problems. Regular practice prepares you for such interviews and boosts your confidence.
• Coding Challenges: Familiarity with common coding challenges often encountered in interviews is an asset.

Building a Portfolio:

• Showcasing Skills: Solving problems allows you to build a portfolio of solutions that you can showcase to potential employers or on coding platforms.
• GitHub Contributions: Uploading your solutions to platforms like GitHub demonstrates your coding proficiency and problem-solving ability.

Enhanced Efficiency:

• Code Optimization: Regular practice encourages optimization, leading to more efficient and cleaner code.
• Time Complexity Awareness: Problem-solving helps in understanding and considering time complexity, contributing to the creation of scalable solutions.

Community Engagement:

• Online Communities: Engaging in online coding communities allows you to discuss problems, learn from others, and gain insights into alternative solutions.
• Peer Learning: Collaborating with peers on coding challenges can provide different perspectives and foster a collaborative learning environment.

Career Advancement:

• Competitive Edge: Building strong problem-solving skills sets you apart in a competitive job market, enhancing your employability.
• Adaptability: A wide range of problem-solving experiences makes you more adaptable to different tasks and projects.

Personal Satisfaction:

• Sense of Achievement: Successfully solving programming problems brings a sense of accomplishment, boosting confidence and motivation.
• Continuous Learning: It fosters a mindset of continuous learning, crucial in a rapidly evolving field like programming.

In summary, regular practice of solving basic programming problems contributes significantly to skill development, logical thinking, and overall proficiency in the field of programming.

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The 10 Most Popular Coding Challenge Websites [Updated for 2021]

A great way to improve your skills when learning to code is by solving coding challenges. Solving different types of challenges and puzzles can help you become a better problem solver, learn the intricacies of a programming language, prepare for job interviews, learn new algorithms, and more.

Below is a list of some popular coding challenge websites with a short description of what each one offers.

1. TopCoder

TopCoder is one of the original platforms for competitive programming online. It provides a list of algorithmic challenges from the past that you can complete on your own directly online using their code editor. Their popular Single Round Matches are offered a few times per month at a specific time where you compete against others to solve challenges the fastest with the best score.

The top ranked users on TopCoder are very good competitive programmers and regularly compete in programming competitions. The top ranked user maintains his own blog titled Algorithms weekly by Petr Mitrichev where he writes about coding competitions, algorithms, math, and more.

2. Coderbyte

Coderbyte provides 200+ coding challenges you can solve directly online in one of 10 programming languages (check out this example ). The challenges range from easy (finding the largest word in a string) to hard (print the maximum cardinality matching of a graph).

They also provide a collection of algorithm tutorials , introductory videos, and interview preparation courses . Unlike HackerRank and other similar websites, you are able to view the solutions other users provide for any challenge aside from the official solutions posted by Coderbyte.

3. Project Euler

Project Euler provides a large collection of challenges in the domain of computer science and mathematics. The challenges typically involve writing a small program to figure out the solution to a clever mathematical formula or equation, such as finding the sum of digits of all numbers preceding each number in a series.

You cannot directly code on the website in an editor, so you would need to write a solution on your own computer and then provide the solution on their website.

4. HackerRank

HackerRank provides challenges for several different domains such as Algorithms, Mathematics, SQL, Functional Programming, AI, and more. You can solve all the challenge directly online (check out this example ).

They provide a discussion and leaderboard for every challenge, and most challenges come with an editorial that explains more about the challenge and how to approach it to come up with a solution.

Currently, if you don't solve the problem, then you can't see the solution of others. If you also try to check the editorial before solving the problem, then you won't get the point for solving the problem at all.

As an example, here I haven't solved the problem, and I am trying to check others' submissions:

And here, I haven't solved the problem, and I am trying to check the editorial:

HackerRank also provides the ability for users to submit applications and apply to jobs by solving company-sponsored coding challenges.

5. CodeChef

CodeChef is an Indian-based competitive programming website that provides hundreds of challenges. You are able to write code in their online editor and view a collections of challenges that are separated into different categories depending on your skill level (check out this example ). They have a large community of coders that contribute to the forums, write tutorials , and take part in CodeChef’s coding competitions .

6. Exercism.io

Exercism is a coding challenge website that offers 3100+ challenges spanning 52 different programming languages. After picking a language that you'd like to master, you tackle the coding challenges right on your machine (Exercism has their own command line interface that you can download from GitHub).

It is a bit different from other challenge websites, however, because you work with a mentor after completing each challenge. The mentor reviews your answers online and helps you improve them if needed. Once your answers have been approved and submitted, you unlock more challenges.

7. Codewars

Codewars provides a large collection of coding challenges submitted and edited by their own community. You can solve the challenges directly online in their editor in one of several languages. You can view a discussion for each challenges as well as user solutions.

8. LeetCode

LeetCode is a popular Online Judge that provides a list of 190+ challenges that can help you prepare for technical job interviews. You can solve the challenges directly online in one of 9 programming languages. You are not able to view other users' solutions, but you are provided statistics for your own solutions such as how fast your code ran when compared to other users' code.

They also have a Mock Interview section that is specifically for job interview preparation, they host their own coding contests , and they have a section for articles to help you better understand certain problems.

Sphere Online Judge (SPOJ) is an online judge that provides over 20k coding challenges. You are able to submit your code in an online editor . SPOJ also hosts their own contests and has an area for users to discuss coding challenges. They do not currently provide any official solutions or editorials like some other websites do, though.

10. CodinGame

CodinGame is a bit different from the other websites, because instead of simply solving coding challenges in an editor, you actually take part in writing the code for games that you play directly online. You can see a list of games currently offered here and an example of one here . The game comes with a problem description, test cases, and an editor where you can write your code in one of 20+ programming languages.

Although this website is different than typical competitive programming websites such as the ones mentioned above, it is still popular amongst programmers who enjoy solving challenges and taking part in contests.

This list was based on a few things: my own experiences using the websites, some Google searches , Quora posts , and articles such as this one and this one . I also frequented some forums and subreddits such as r/learnprogramming to see what websites were usually recommended by the users there. Disclaimer: I work at Coderbyte which is one of the websites mentioned above.

CEO & Founder at Coderbyte.

If this article was helpful, share it .

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This article is part of our exclusive IEEE Journal Watch series in partnership with IEEE Xplore.

Programmers have spent decades writing code for AI models , and now, in a full circle moment, AI is being used to write code. But how does an AI code generator compare to a human programmer?

A study published in the June issue of IEEE Transactions on Software Engineering evaluated the code produced by OpenAI’s ChatGPT in terms of functionality, complexity and security. The results show that ChatGPT has an extremely broad range of success when it comes to producing functional code—with a success rate ranging from anywhere as poor as 0.66 percent and as good as 89 percent—depending on the difficulty of the task, the programming language, and a number of other factors.

While in some cases the AI generator could produce better code than humans, the analysis also reveals some security concerns with AI-generated code.

Yutian Tang is a lecturer at the University of Glasgow who was involved in the study. He notes that AI-based code generation could provide some advantages in terms of enhancing productivity and automating software development tasks—but it’s important to understand the strengths and limitations of these models.

“By conducting a comprehensive analysis, we can uncover potential issues and limitations that arise in the ChatGPT-based code generation... [and] improve generation techniques,” Tang explains.

To explore these limitations in more detail, his team sought to test GPT-3.5’s ability to address 728 coding problems from the LeetCode testing platform in five programming languages: C, C++, Java, JavaScript, and Python .

“A reasonable hypothesis for why ChatGPT can do better with algorithm problems before 2021 is that these problems are frequently seen in the training dataset.” —Yutian Tang, University of Glasgow

Overall, ChatGPT was fairly good at solving problems in the different coding languages—but especially when attempting to solve coding problems that existed on LeetCode before 2021. For instance, it was able to produce functional code for easy, medium, and hard problems with success rates of about 89, 71, and 40 percent, respectively.

“However, when it comes to the algorithm problems after 2021, ChatGPT’s ability to generate functionally correct code is affected. It sometimes fails to understand the meaning of questions, even for easy level problems,” Tang notes.

For example, ChatGPT’s ability to produce functional code for “easy” coding problems dropped from 89 percent to 52 percent after 2021. And its ability to generate functional code for “hard” problems dropped from 40 percent to 0.66 percent after this time as well.

“A reasonable hypothesis for why ChatGPT can do better with algorithm problems before 2021 is that these problems are frequently seen in the training dataset,” Tang says.

Essentially, as coding evolves, ChatGPT has not been exposed yet to new problems and solutions. It lacks the critical thinking skills of a human and can only address problems it has previously encountered. This could explain why it is so much better at addressing older coding problems than newer ones.

“ChatGPT may generate incorrect code because it does not understand the meaning of algorithm problems.” —Yutian Tang, University of Glasgow

Interestingly, ChatGPT is able to generate code with smaller runtime and memory overheads than at least 50 percent of human solutions to the same LeetCode problems.

The researchers also explored the ability of ChatGPT to fix its own coding errors after receiving feedback from LeetCode. They randomly selected 50 coding scenarios where ChatGPT initially generated incorrect coding, either because it didn’t understand the content or problem at hand.

While ChatGPT was good at fixing compiling errors, it generally was not good at correcting its own mistakes.

“ChatGPT may generate incorrect code because it does not understand the meaning of algorithm problems, thus, this simple error feedback information is not enough,” Tang explains.

The researchers also found that ChatGPT-generated code did have a fair amount of vulnerabilities, such as a missing null test, but many of these were easily fixable. Their results also show that generated code in C was the most complex, followed by C++ and Python, which has a similar complexity to the human-written code.

Tangs says, based on these results, it’s important that developers using ChatGPT provide additional information to help ChatGPT better understand problems or avoid vulnerabilities.

“For example, when encountering more complex programming problems, developers can provide relevant knowledge as much as possible, and tell ChatGPT in the prompt which potential vulnerabilities to be aware of,” Tang says.

• What to Do When the Ghost in the Machine Is You ›
• How Coders Can Survive—and Thrive—in a ChatGPT World ›
• Coding Assistant - ChatGPT ›

Michelle Hampson is a freelance writer based in Halifax. She frequently contributes to Spectrum's Journal Watch coverage, which highlights newsworthy studies published in IEEE journals.

That's yesterday's news, try it with version 4o, it's free.

"struggles due to training limitations" isn't that EVERYONE's problem with EVERYTHING.

"I could be an awesome guitar playing, but I struggle due to training limitations."

"I could be a great Opera singer, but I struggle due to training limitations."

"I could be a great jockey, but I am 6'4"...." Ok, well maybe not everything.

ChatGPT sucks at coding because it's not an AI - it's a big ass word predictor.

I actually think the key here is writing good test suits to ensure AI does the right thing...

Here is the full argument: https://medium.com/@samuel.sperling/software-2-1-ai-is-coding-now-why-test-mastery-is-your-new-job-security-31a65e792f7f

Food Service Robots Just Need the Right Ingredients

Edith clarke: architect of modern power distribution, sea drones in the russia-ukraine war inspire new tactics, related stories, what to do when the ghost in the machine is you, chatgpt’s new upgrade teases ai’s multimodal future, chatgpt may be a better improviser than you.

• DSA Tutorial
• Data Structures
• Linked List
• Dynamic Programming
• Binary Tree
• Binary Search Tree
• Divide & Conquer
• Mathematical
• Backtracking
• Branch and Bound
• Pattern Searching

How To Approach A Coding Problem ?

Solving a DSA (Data Structures and Algorithms) Problem is quite tough. In This article, we help you not only solve the problem but actually understand it, It’s not about just solving a problem it’s about understanding the problem. we will help to solve DSA problems on websites like Leetcode, CodeChef, Codeforces, and Geeksforgeeks. the importance of solving a problem is not just limited to job interviews or solve problems on online platform, its about develop a problem solving abilities which is make your prefrontal cortex strong, sharp and prepared it to solve complex problem in future, not only DSA problems also in life.

These steps you need to follow while solving a problem:

– Understand the question, read it 2-3 times. – Take an estimate of the required complexity. – find, edge cases based on the constraints. – find a brute-force solution. ensure it will pass. – Optimize code, ensure, and repeat this step. – Dry-run your solution(pen& paper) on the test cases and edge cases. – Code it and test it with the test cases and edge cases. – Submit solution. Debug it and fix it, if the solution does not work.

Understand The Question

firstly read it 2-3 times, It doesn’t matter if you have seen the question in the past or not, read the question several times and understand it completely. Now, think about the question and analyze it carefully. Sometimes we read a few lines and assume the rest of the things on our own but a slight change in your question can change a lot of things in your code so be careful about that. Now take a paper and write down everything. What is given (input) and what you need to find out (output)? While going through the problem you need to ask a few questions yourself…

• Did you understand the problem fully?
• Would you be able to explain this question to someone else?
• What and how many inputs are required?
• What would be the output for those inputs
• Do you need to separate out some modules or parts from the problem?
• Do you have enough information to solve that question? If not then read the question again or clear it to the interviewer.

                Estimate of the required complexity

Look at the constraints and time limit. This should give you a rough idea of the expected time and space complexity. Use this step to reject the solutions that will not pass the limits. With some practice, you will be able to get an estimate within seconds of glancing at the constraints and limits.

              Find, edge cases 

In most problems, you would be provided with sample input and output with which you can test your solution. These tests would most likely not contain the edge cases. Edge cases are the boundary cases that might need additional handling. Before jumping on to any solution, write down the edge cases that your solution should work on. When you try to understand the problem take some sample inputs and try to analyze the output. Taking some sample inputs will help you to understand the problem in a better way. You will also get clarity that how many cases your code can handle and what all can be the possible output or output range.

Constraints 

0 <= T <= 100

1 <= N <= 1000

-1000 <= value of element <= 1000

Find a brute-force Solution

A brute-force solution for a DSA (Data Structure and Algorithm) problem involves exhaustively checking all possible solutions until the correct one is found. This method is typically very time-consuming and not efficient, but can be useful for small-scale problems or as a way to verify the correctness of a more optimized solution. One example of a problem that could be solved using a brute-force approach is finding the shortest path in a graph. The algorithm would check every possible path until the shortest one is found.

Break Down The Problem

When you see a coding question that is complex or big, instead of being afraid and getting confused that how to solve that question, break down the problem into smaller chunks and then try to solve each part of the problem. Below are some steps you should follow in order to solve the complex coding questions… 

• Make a flow chart or a UML for the problem at hand.
• Divide the problem into sub-problems or smaller chunks.
• Solve the subproblems. Make independent functions for each subproblem.
• Connect the solutions of each subproblem by calling them in the required order, or as necessary.
• Wherever it’s required use classes and objects while handling questions (for real-world problems like management systems, etc.)

Optimize your Code

Always try to improve your code. Look back, analyze it once again and try to find a better or alternate solution. We have mentioned earlier that you should always try to write the right amount of good code so always look for the alternate solution which is more efficient than the previous one. Writing the correct solution to your problem is not the final thing you should do. Explore the problem completely with all possible solutions and then write down the most efficient or optimized solution for your code. So once you are done with writing the solution for your code below are some questions you should ask yourself. 

Optimizing a solution in DSA (Data Structure and Algorithm) refers to improving the efficiency of an algorithm by reducing the time and/or space complexity. This can be done by using techniques such as dynamic programming, greedy algorithms, divide and conquer, backtracking, or using more efficient data structures.

It’s important to note that the optimization process is not always straightforward and it can be highly dependent on the specific problem and constraints. The optimization process usually starts with a brute force approach, and then various techniques will be applied to make the algorithm more efficient. The optimization process will often require a trade-off between time and space complexity.

Also, measuring and analyzing the performance of the algorithm is an essential step in the optimization process. The use of mathematical notation and analysis tools like Big O notation and complexity analysis, can help to understand the performance of an algorithm and decide which one is the best.

• Does this code run for every possible input including the edge cases.
• Is there an alternate solution for the same problem?
• Is the code efficient? Can it be more efficient or can the performance be improved?
• How else can you make the code more readable?
• Are there any more extra steps or functions you can take out?
• Is there any repetition in your code? Take it out.

Below is the alternate solution for the same problem of the array which returns even numbers… 

          Dry-run your solution

Dry-running a solution on test cases and edge cases involves manually going through the steps of the algorithm with sample inputs and verifying that the output is correct. This process can help to identify any bugs or errors in the code, as well as ensure that the algorithm is correctly handling all possible inputs, including edge cases.

When dry-running your solution, it’s important to consider both the expected test cases and any unexpected edge cases that may arise. Edge cases are inputs that are at the boundaries of the problem’s constraints, for example, the maximum or minimum values.

To dry-run the solution, you will need to:

• Write down the sample test case inputs and expected outputs.
• Go through the steps of the algorithm manually, using the test case inputs.
• Compare the output of the algorithm to the expected output, to ensure the solution is correct.
• Repeat the process for each test case and edge case.
• Dry-running your solution on test cases and edge cases can help you to identify any issues with your algorithm, and make any necessary adjustments before running the code on a computer.

             Code & Test it On Edge Cases

After dry-running your solution and verifying that it is right, the next step is to code it and test it using the test cases and edge cases.

To code the solution, you will need to:

•  write the code for the algorithm.
• Make sure to include any necessary data structures and methods.
• Test the code with sample inputs, including the test cases and edge cases that were used during the dry-run.
• When testing the code, it’s important to not only check for the expected outputs, but also for any unexpected behavior or errors. Testing with edge cases is especially important as it can reveal bugs or errors that might not be present in other test cases.

It’s also a good practice to test the code with additional test cases and edge cases, to further ensure the correctness and robustness of the solution.

Once the code has been tested and all the bugs have been fixed, you can submit it.

 Submit solution

After coding and testing the solution on the sample test cases, the next step is to submit it, usually to a platform for review or for a contest.

The submission process can depending on the platform, but basically it involves submitting the code and any necessary documentation. After the submission, the solution is usually reviewed by other participants or judges, and feedback is provided on whether the solution is correct or if there are any errors. If the solution is wrong or does not work as expected, the next step is to debug and fix it. Debugging is the process of identifying and resolving errors in the code. This can involve using tools such as a debugger, print statements, or logging to find the source of the problem.

Once the error has been identified, the next step is to fix it. This can involve making changes to the code, data structures, or algorithms used. Once the changes have been made, it’s important to test the solution again to ensure that the error has been resolved and that the solution is correct.

If the solution is correct, you can submit it again or move on to other problems.

It’s important to note that the debugging and fixing process can be an iterative one and it may take several iterations to get the solution working correctly.

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Summer SAVY, Session 4 Day 3, Coding and Robotics (5th – 6th)

Posted by delislss on Wednesday, July 10, 2024 in blog , SAVY .

Engaging Creativity and Collaboration: Day 3 of SAVY- Robotic Engineering  

Welcome to Day 3 of our exciting journey into the world of robotics. Throughout this week, we’ve witnessed an impressive display of creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork from our enthusiastic rising 5th and 6th graders. Today, the students explored movement and sensor programming.  As we progress, students continue to push the boundaries of their imagination, critical thinking, and problem-solving.  

Exploring Mechanics, Sensors, and Movement  

We started the day with a “Getting to Know You” activity where students presented their “All About Me” Robot Infographic.  With this activity that kickstarts our mornings, we learn more about each other’s interests and future endeavors.  This team-building activity has contributed to a viable and positive learning community.  Before starting our next coding lesson, students reviewed the components of the engineering design process.  This included watching a short clip on how the engineering design process could be used to have a taco party!  Please continue the discussions at home on how the design process can be used for solving everyday life challenges.  

Continuing our theme of learning about mechanics and movement, students participated in the “Breaker Bot Challenge”.  Within this challenge, students were given three tasks: sync the legs of the dancer, sync the arms, and program sound that syncs with the robot’s movement.  After they finished the challenge, each student presented their robot and received positive peer feedback.  We enjoyed a “Robot Dance Party” using our robots as the main dancers! We all danced until we increased our appetites just in time for lunch!  

Applying the Engineering Design Process, Coding Prototypes  

Our next project, from  Invention Squad , involved creating a robot that moved without wheels.  Prototypes of this robot looked very similar to grasshoppers!  After a discussion on biomimicry and robotics, students drew brainstorming sketches.  Once the Hopper Bots were built, students were given the task of modifying the Hopper Bot’s legs to make a faster robot in preparation for our Hopper Race Championship match tomorrow!  

I am inspired as I witness students’ dedication, determination, and problem-solving skills while they iterate their prototypes. Projects created today fostered critical thinking as the campers experimented with different coding techniques, such as loops and conditional statements.  Collaborative efforts were on full display as students shared strategies and offered suggestions.  

Each student’s innovative ideas demonstrated the power of combining imagination and engineering.  Throughout the design process, the students honed their teamwork skills by brainstorming, prototyping, and redesigning together. They learned the value of effective communication and compromise as they worked towards a common goal.  As we move forward to the remaining days of the camp, we are excited to witness the growth and development of these young innovators. They have already demonstrated exceptional potential, and we can’t wait to see how their skills and creativity will continue to flourish as we learn about robotics and space in the later days of camp.  Stay tuned for more updates as we embark on new adventures in the world of robotics and coding!  

Ms. Young  

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