Problem statement's

Question

inputs and outputs i have this problem when i read a programming problem in competitions. i just have a tough time to decide which strategy and algorithm, data structure to use to solve the question.

i would like to know fellow sololearners if you compete on other sites. How and which steps do you take to make sure you understand and solve the problem at hand.

Thank you for any advise.

Answer 1

Pick the most efficient, time saving (to type on keyboard) method.
If you find a certain method the best, act on your intuition: it's not like they'll critique your code during runtime or anything.

Answer 2

i do write flow charts for my algorithms sometimes it works other times it doesnt.

Its rare when i get to write some pseudocode. but i understand its needed.

Also your example really helped James thank you sometimes the simplier the better i dont understand why some programmers have to make things so cryptic and complicated.