The hottest Problem Solving Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Education Topics

Solving Coding Problems through Case by Case Analysis of Input[Technique Tuesdays]

Technology Made Simple • 39 implied HN points • 08 Jun 22
🕹 Technology Coding Problem Solving Techniques Leetcode Tutoring
  1. Analyzing inputs and breaking down problems into different cases can help in solving coding problems more effectively.
  2. Practicing the technique of case-by-case analysis can improve problem-solving skills, especially in software engineering and Leetcode questions.
  3. By breaking down complex problems into easier subproblems and solving them individually, one can pick low-hanging fruit, find clearer next steps, and get hints on solving harder cases.

Problem 39: Find the Celebrity[Pintrest]

Technology Made Simple • 39 implied HN points • 26 May 22
🚌 Education Problem Solving Coding Tutoring Interviews Learning
  1. Identifying a 'celebrity' in a group where everyone knows them but they know no one involves a logic puzzle with time complexity considerations.
  2. A key to solving the 'celebrity' problem efficiently is using the 'knows' method and a strategy to identify the person in O(N) time.
  3. Engaging with the author's content can involve liking posts, participating in surveys, or supporting them via Substack features.

[Solution]Problem 36: Container with Most Water[Two Sigma]

Technology Made Simple • 39 implied HN points • 06 May 22
🕹 Technology Coding Finance Problem Solving Optimization Algorithms
  1. Maximizing the area of a container with water involves maximizing both its width and height, which leads to utilizing a technique like Two Pointers for an optimized solution.
  2. For the container problem discussed, starting with two pointers at the ends and progressively moving them towards each other to increase width helps in filtering out low width and height combinations.
  3. A key optimization technique known as 'Artem's Rule' states that if a > b, then a > all numbers lesser than b, which can be a foundational concept for various interview problem optimizations.

[Solution]Problem 35: 3 Sum[Netflix]

Technology Made Simple • 39 implied HN points • 29 Apr 22
🕹 Technology Coding Algorithms Interviews Problem Solving Sorting
  1. Practice the skills mentioned in your interviews frequently to make problem-solving easier.
  2. Understanding the properties of numbers like knowing how values affect the sum can help in solving coding problems effectively.
  3. Sorting the input array can be crucial in solving problems where solutions need to be filtered based on certain properties of the input.
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How to Structure your Interview Answers[Technique Tuesdays]

Technology Made Simple • 39 implied HN points • 27 Apr 22
🚌 Education Interview Preparation Problem Solving Skill development Tutorial
  1. Start by solving edge/base cases to warm up your mind and gain momentum for complex problems
  2. Run through hypothetical solutions manually to gain intuition and avoid getting stuck on challenging coding problems
  3. After understanding 'what' your solution does, focus on 'how' to implement it using modular and incremental coding

Problem 69: Generate Random Numbers According to Probability [TripleByte]

Technology Made Simple • 19 implied HN points • 15 Dec 22
🕹 Technology Coding Problem Solving Math
  1. The problem discussed involves generating random numbers based on given probabilities. For instance, if given numbers are [1, 2, 3, 4] and corresponding probabilities are [0.1, 0.5, 0.2, 0.2], the function should return 1 10% of the time, 2 50% of the time, and 3 and 4 20% of the time.
  2. The post includes information on job opportunities like a remote Machine Learning Engineer position and features a free weekly summary of AI and Machine Learning updates. There's also a call for sponsors for the newsletter.
  3. The textual content suggests subscribing to a resourceful newsletter for problem-solving tips and techniques in areas like Logic, Problem Solving, and Math. It also shares links to platforms where the author's content is available, such as YouTube and LinkedIn.

Problem 34: Find Safe States[Microsoft]

Technology Made Simple • 39 implied HN points • 21 Apr 22
🚌 Education Coding Problem Solving Tutoring
  1. The problem discussed involves finding safe nodes in a directed graph where every path from the node leads to a terminal node. It's important to identify safe and terminal nodes in the graph.
  2. The solution to the problem should return an array of safe nodes sorted in ascending order. It's crucial to sort the output for easy analysis and comparison.
  3. By focusing on graph exploration techniques like reachability and cycle detection using DFS can help in solving similar problems efficiently. These techniques are essential for navigating through complex graphs.

Recursion- A mathematical perspective [Math Monday]

Technology Made Simple • 39 implied HN points • 12 Apr 22
🚌 Education Math Recursion Proofs Computer Science Problem Solving
  1. Mathematical Induction is a technique for proving statements by starting with a base case and progressing through inductive steps. It forms the foundation for recursion.
  2. Both Mathematical Induction and recursion rely on base cases, operate on discrete domains, and reduce problems to already proven statements. They are like mirror images of each other in problem-solving.
  3. Understanding Mathematical Induction can greatly improve recursion skills as they share similar problem-solving approaches. Practicing PMI questions can enhance recursion proficiency.

[Solution]Problem 32: Maximize Average Pass Ratio[Goldman Sachs]

Technology Made Simple • 39 implied HN points • 08 Apr 22
🚌 Education Math Problem Solving Lists
  1. The problem revolves around maximizing the average pass ratio in multiple classes by strategically assigning extra students
  2. The key is to calculate the gain from adding a single extra student to each class and then determine which class benefits the most
  3. Breaking down complex problems into specific well-defined subproblems can make them more manageable and easier to solve

Problem 31: Maxium Rainwater Trapping[Microsoft]

Technology Made Simple • 39 implied HN points • 31 Mar 22
🕹 Technology Coding Problem Solving Software Engineering Interview Preparation
  1. The problem discussed involves calculating how much water can be trapped after rain, based on elevation maps.
  2. Problem solving and recognition skills are important for this type of coding challenge, rather than specialized knowledge.
  3. The newsletter offers coding interview help and techniques for success, especially for firms like FAANG and MAMAA.

[Solution]Problem 26: Remove K digits to create smallest number[Microsoft]

Technology Made Simple • 39 implied HN points • 24 Feb 22
🕹 Technology Coding Problem Solving Algorithms Programming
  1. Given a non-negative integer as a string, you can create the smallest number by removing k digits strategically.
  2. For strings with digits sorted in descending order, removing the first k elements generates the smallest number.
  3. It's important to analyze patterns and consider removing significant digits in order to solve tricky problems like creating the smallest number by removing k digits.

Why doesn't my boss (or employee) make better decisions? | #4

The Pole • 19 implied HN points • 17 Jan 23
🚌 Education Teaching Knowledge sharing Problem Solving Learning Heuristics
  1. Innovators face resistance from standardizers when introducing new ideas, but persistence can lead to successful adoption.
  2. Using leverage to solve problems can be risky, so it's crucial to model reality accurately to mitigate risks.
  3. Information asymmetry between individuals, with different levels of knowledge and confidence, can impede optimal decision-making.

Six thinking hats

A Bit Gamey • 13 implied HN points • 17 Dec 23
🚌 Education Problem Solving Decision-making Creativity Critical Thinking Personal Development
  1. The Six Thinking Hats method by Edward de Bono helps in problem solving by considering different perspectives.
  2. Each hat represents a specific viewpoint like emotions, caution, facts, optimism, creativity, and control.
  3. Using the Six Thinking Hats approach can lead to clearer thinking, innovative ideas, effective communication, and better decision-making.

The Pivotal Thing

CTOrly • 19 implied HN points • 25 Aug 22
💼 Business Product Management Leadership Planning Problem Solving Change Management
  1. Guard against unnecessary, preventable volatility in planning and focus on the quality of the problem rather than constantly changing solutions.
  2. Detangle desired outcomes from specific features in planning to enable pivoting on how to achieve goals while maintaining the constancy of overall objectives.
  3. Leaders should balance adapting to changes when necessary without causing unnecessary chaos by crying wolf with constant changes.

25/36 : 🛠️ McKinsey's Problem-solving Process

Product Mindset's Newsletter • 19 implied HN points • 16 Jul 23
💼 Business Problem Solving Analysis Presentation Management Implementation
  1. Problem-solving for Product Managers involves analytical thinking, creative ideation, and data-driven insights to address challenges and meet customer demands.
  2. Problems can be categorized as simple, well-structured, or ill-structured, with ill-structured problems being complex, having multiple solutions, and requiring higher-order thinking skills.
  3. McKinsey's Problem-solving Process focuses on starting with a hypothesis, leveraging intuition, doing efficient research, storytelling with data, prewiring for buy-in, hitting singles, and respecting time.

[Solution]Problem 51:Happy Number[IBM]

Technology Made Simple • 19 implied HN points • 11 Aug 22
🕹 Technology Coding Problem Solving Math Algorithm Software Engineering
  1. A happy number is a number defined by a specific process that ends with the number 1, while an unhappy number will loop endlessly without reaching 1.
  2. When facing a problem, break down the definitions given in the problem as this can provide insights and help formulate mathematical rules for quick problem-solving.
  3. In problem-solving, looking for patterns, mathematical or algorithmic statements can give a competitive advantage and aid in solving or optimizing problems efficiently.

Problem 48:Valid Parentheses[Amazon]

Technology Made Simple • 19 implied HN points • 20 Jul 22
🚌 Education Coding Interviews Problem Solving
  1. The post discusses the classic coding interview problem of determining whether a string of parentheses, brackets, and braces is valid.
  2. The examples provided illustrate how to determine if a string of characters follows the rules of valid parentheses.
  3. Resources are shared for further practice, including a link to the problem on Leetcode and a survey request to help feature the publication.

[Solution]Problem 45:Robot Bounded In Circle [Amazon]

Technology Made Simple • 19 implied HN points • 07 Jul 22
🕹 Technology Math Logic Functions Problem Solving Coding
  1. Math and logic are essential in problem-solving as they can help analyze and solve complex scenarios.
  2. Understanding periodicity in functions can be applied to analyze repetitive patterns in problems with infinite instructions.
  3. Analyzing the impact of direction and location in a periodic function can reveal insights on the behavior of a system over time, leading to accurate solutions.

Problem 45:Robot Bounded In Circle [Amazon]

Technology Made Simple • 19 implied HN points • 06 Jul 22
🚌 Education Coding Problem Solving Leetcode Interviews Tutoring
  1. The problem describes a scenario where a robot moves on an infinite plane following specific instructions and determines if it remains within a circle.
  2. The instructions for the robot include moving one unit forward, turning left or right by 90 degrees, and endlessly repeating those instructions.
  3. By understanding the movement of the robot based on the given instructions, it is possible to determine if the robot stays within a circle on the plane.

An intro to Functions [Math Mondays]

Technology Made Simple • 19 implied HN points • 21 Jun 22
🚌 Education Math Programming Computer Science Problem Solving Learning
  1. Understanding functions in math helps in becoming a better programmer by teaching how to frame problems as inputs and equations.
  2. Mastering math functions translates well to coding, as both domains involve transformations on inputs to get desired outputs.
  3. To get better at functions, focus on topics like Linear Programming and Precalculus, which can sharpen problem-solving and understanding of transformations.

[Solution]Problem 31:Maxium Rainwater Trapping[Microsoft]

Technology Made Simple • 19 implied HN points • 01 Apr 22
🕹 Technology Coding Problem Solving Algorithms Tooling
  1. Understanding the problem thoroughly is essential in tackling difficult coding challenges. Break down the problem into smaller components and focus on each step.
  2. Identifying patterns and creating systems can help simplify complex problems. Mathematics can be a powerful tool in problem-solving and coding interviews.
  3. Utilizing techniques like the two-pointer approach can be incredibly helpful in optimizing solutions and acing technical interviews.

Problem 30: Find Distance to nearest Exit[Google]

Technology Made Simple • 19 implied HN points • 24 Mar 22
🕹 Technology Coding Problem Solving Google Software Engineering
  1. The problem involves finding the distance to the nearest exit on a 2D grid with obstacles and gates.
  2. The solution requires filling each empty room with the distance to its nearest gate, considering obstacles and walls.
  3. This question is a favorite problem asked by Google to test problem-solving skills and the ability to recognize the right approach.

6/36 - Crafting a Problem Statement

Product Mindset's Newsletter • 17 implied HN points • 19 Feb 23
💼 Business Problem Solving Communication Project management Consulting Innovation
  1. A problem statement is a clear explanation of an issue or challenge that needs to be changed.
  2. Defining a problem statement requires addressing the 'five w's and one h': what, why, when, where, who, and how.
  3. Crafting a problem statement is vital for projects as it sets the foundation for research and development, ensuring all team members know the problem and its importance.

Problem 18: Pack Words on Board [Google]

Technology Made Simple • 19 implied HN points • 29 Dec 21
🚌 Education Coding Problem Solving Recursion Words
  1. Given a matrix of letters and a dictionary of words, find the maximum number of words that can be constructed from the matrix based on specific rules.
  2. To pack a word on the board, it must be in the dictionary, created from available letters, and have adjacent letters (vertically and horizontally).
  3. In the example, the function should return 3 for the words 'eat, 'in', and 'rat' as valid words that can be formed without touching each other.

Step One: Help Others

Tribal Knowledge • 19 implied HN points • 29 Mar 22
🕹 Technology Software Development Problem Solving
  1. Helping others is fulfilling and valuable, even if it may come at a cost.
  2. Explaining problems to others or to an inanimate object like a rubber duck can help improve problem-solving skills by engaging different parts of the brain.
  3. Helping others can also benefit oneself by providing a fresh perspective and removing personal doubts and reservations.

Problem 15: Mastermind Code Decoding [Facebook]

Technology Made Simple • 19 implied HN points • 09 Dec 21
🕹 Technology Coding Algorithms Problem Solving
  1. Mastermind is a two-player game where one player guesses the secret code of the other player.
  2. In the game, the first player guesses a number, and the response indicates how many digits were correctly placed in the secret code.
  3. An algorithm is needed to determine if a given sequence of guesses and their scores can be produced by a particular secret code.

Lessons to a junior software developer

QED • 1 HN point • 26 Apr 24
🕹 Technology Software Development Programming Languages Knowledge acquisition Problem Solving Experience
  1. Writing code takes practice: The more you code, the faster you'll make decisions and write code.
  2. Continuous learning is essential: Understand problem domains, master tools, and know how to acquire new information as a junior developer.
  3. Learn deeply and take on challenging projects: Focus on mastering key concepts and push yourself with difficult projects to grow as a developer.