array sorting Pattern
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Pattern brief
Recognize first
Checks if you sort intervals before merging, as failing to sort leads to incorrect merges.
Solve rhythm
State the active state and invariant first, explain how each update preserves them, then pressure-test with counterexamples.
Most common miss
Failing to sort intervals first, causing incorrect overlap detection.
Recognition signals
- Checks if you sort intervals before merging, as failing to sort leads to incorrect merges.
- Looks for a clean in-place or linear pass after sorting, showing understanding of array traversal and comparison.
- Expect discussion on linear time sorting alternatives like bucket sort or radix sort.
Solve flow
- 1. Define the active state/window.
- 2. Update state while preserving invariants.
- 3. Validate with edge-heavy examples.
Common misses
- Failing to sort intervals first, causing incorrect overlap detection.
- Sorting the array normally violates the linear time constraint and may be penalized.
- Miscounting papers with exactly h citations or assuming strict greater-than.
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