My Brain after 569 Leetcode Problems

NeetCode

NeetCode

7 min, 50 sec

The speaker discusses their experience with LeetCode, their progression, and tips for effective practice.

Summary

  • Began with easy questions and C++ but later switched to Python due to its concise syntax.
  • Learned the importance of solving problems in a specific order to build upon knowledge progressively.
  • Advised against spending too much time on a single problem and recommended looking at solutions after a reasonable attempt.
  • Emphasized understanding each problem deeply and reviewing them regularly.
  • Shared insights on how LeetCode preparation can help in tech interviews and in thinking about edge cases in development.

Chapter 1

Introduction to LeetCode Journey

0:00 - 1 min, 13 sec

The speaker introduces their LeetCode journey and the various stages of their preparation.

The speaker introduces their LeetCode journey and the various stages of their preparation.

  • Started solving LeetCode problems while unemployed and eventually got a job offer from Google.
  • Struggled with easy problems initially and was not familiar with advanced algorithms or data structures.
  • After solving around 50 problems, got an internship at a bank.

Chapter 2

Switching Languages and Learning from Mistakes

1:13 - 1 min, 49 sec

The speaker discusses the switch from C++ to Python and the lessons learned from early mistakes.

The speaker discusses the switch from C++ to Python and the lessons learned from early mistakes.

  • Switched to Python after noticing it was favored in the LeetCode community for its brevity.
  • Learned basic Python syntax and data structures through solving LeetCode problems and Googling as needed.
  • Realized the importance of the order in which problems are solved.

Chapter 3

Refining Problem-Solving Strategy

3:02 - 1 min, 11 sec

The speaker refines their problem-solving strategy and shares tips on how to approach problems effectively.

The speaker refines their problem-solving strategy and shares tips on how to approach problems effectively.

  • Adopted a more structured approach to solving problems to understand algorithms like DFS, BFS, and backtracking.
  • Stopped spending excessive time on problems and started looking at solutions to learn the underlying tricks.

Chapter 4

Achieving Proficiency and Realizing Patterns

4:13 - 1 min, 32 sec

The speaker achieves a high level of proficiency and shares insights on the patterns behind LeetCode problems.

The speaker achieves a high level of proficiency and shares insights on the patterns behind LeetCode problems.

  • Realized most medium problems require applying known algorithms, while hard problems often have a unique trick.
  • Was able to solve a large number of problems efficiently, recognizing common patterns in algorithms.

Chapter 5

Assessing Interview Readiness and Continued Practice

5:45 - 1 min, 8 sec

The speaker assesses their readiness for tech interviews and continues to practice beyond the necessity.

The speaker assesses their readiness for tech interviews and continues to practice beyond the necessity.

  • Discusses the uncertainty of feeling fully prepared for interviews and suggests a benchmark for interview readiness.
  • Continued to solve LeetCode problems even after receiving a Google offer, highlighting the law of diminishing returns.

Chapter 6

LeetCode's Value and Sponsorship Mention

6:53 - 54 sec

The speaker reflects on the value of LeetCode and mentions a sponsorship that aligns with career growth.

The speaker reflects on the value of LeetCode and mentions a sponsorship that aligns with career growth.

  • Argues that LeetCode practice can lead to significant compensation increases and improve thinking around edge cases.
  • Mentions Taro, a Y Combinator-backed platform for tech career growth, offering a discount code.

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