How do you get better at the Hard questions?
How Do You Get Better at the Hard Questions?
When it comes to coding interviews and competitive programming, tackling hard questions can feel like wrestling a bear. After you’ve mastered the mediums, the hard questions loom like insurmountable obstacles. But fear not! Many have walked this path before you, and there are proven strategies to improve your skills in this area. In this post, we’ll explore effective approaches to mastering those daunting hard questions.
1. Build a Strong Foundation
One of the most effective ways to become proficient at hard questions is to solidify your understanding of advanced data structures and algorithms. As one of our commenters pointed out, getting a grip on the fundamentals is crucial. Take the time to revisit the theories behind complex topics such as trees, graphs, dynamic programming, and more.
Tip:
Spend time solving medium-level problems with a focus on optimal solutions rather than rushing through to hard problems. This will not only strengthen your basics but also prepare you for the complexities of harder challenges.
2. Gradual Progression
Another great strategy is to ease into hard questions by starting with the easiest ones first. Solve problems that have a high success rate among solvers. This approach allows you to build confidence and familiarity with the question types before tackling the more challenging ones.
Resource Suggestion:
Consider using platforms like Zerotrac, which helps you find hard questions that align with your current skill level. This way, you can gradually work your way up without feeling overwhelmed.
3. Learn from the Experts
Watching professionals solve problems can provide invaluable insights. Through this, you can pick up new tricks, patterns, and methodologies that you may not have considered.
Tip:
Look for recorded sessions or live streams where experienced coders break down their thought processes. This is not just about the final solution; it’s about understanding how they approach problems, which can significantly enhance your problem-solving toolkit.
4. Use Tools to Guide Your Learning
If you find yourself stuck on a problem, consider using tools designed to guide you through the process. One commenter shared their experience with a Chrome extension called Leetcode Buddy. This tool acts like a companion that offers hints and prompts, encouraging you to think critically rather than just handing over the solution.
Check it out here!
5. Emphasize Optimal Solutions
When solving medium-level problems, make it a habit to aim for optimal solutions. While it might be tempting to take the easy route with sub-optimal solutions, this won’t prepare you for the hard questions. Emphasizing efficiency forces you to think critically and understand the underlying principles of problem-solving.
6. Embrace the Process
Lastly, remember that improvement takes time. You may find yourself dedicating days or even weeks to researching new topics. Embrace this journey, as the knowledge you gain during this time will pay off when you finally tackle those hard questions with confidence.
Conclusion
Improving your skills with hard questions is not an overnight process; it’s a gradual journey filled with learning and growth. By building a strong foundation, gradually increasing the difficulty of the problems you tackle, learning from experts, using supportive tools, and focusing on optimal solutions, you’ll find yourself mastering those once-daunting challenges.
So, gear up, dive deep, and remember: every expert was once a beginner! Happy coding!