Hey everyone, welcome to this video on how to solve LeetCode problems. LeetCode is a great platform for practicing coding skills and preparing for technical interviews. But it can be overwhelming, especially for beginners. So, let's start with the basics.

The first tip is to start with easy problems. Don't jump into the hard ones right away. Build your confidence and understanding by tackling easier problems first. This will help you get familiar with the platform and the types of questions you'll encounter.

If you feel weaker in certain areas, like arrays or linked lists, use the 'Tag' filter to focus on problems related to those specific topics. This will help you improve your skills in those areas.

Now, let's talk about some resources that can help you along the way.

There are browser extensions like LeetCode Enhancer for Chrome that can enhance your experience. These extensions provide features like code highlighting, solution analysis, and more.

Another helpful resource is the editorials. These are detailed explanations of solutions to problems, indicated by a 'document page' icon in the 'Solution' column. Start with problems that have editorials, as they can provide valuable insights and help you understand different approaches.

Choosing the right problems is crucial for effective learning. Here's how to do it.

Look for problems with good reviews. A 4:1 or higher upvote-to-downvote ratio indicates that the problem is well-designed and provides a good learning experience.

Avoid problems with poor reviews, especially initially. A ratio less than 2:1 suggests that the problem might be poorly worded, have ambiguous solutions, or be generally unhelpful.

Time management is key when solving LeetCode problems. Here's a strategy to follow.

Spend 30 minutes trying to solve a problem on your own. If you're stuck, spend another 30 minutes implementing a solution based on the editorial or other resources. This approach helps you develop problem-solving skills and learn from different perspectives.

Allocate 3 hours a day to solve 3 problems. Adjust your pace as needed, but consistency is important. Don't get discouraged if you don't solve every problem. The goal is to learn and improve.

Once you've solved a problem, don't just move on. Take the time to understand the solutions thoroughly.

Study the solutions to understand the underlying concepts and optimize your code. Analyze the spacetime complexity of solutions and why they are optimal. This will help you develop a deeper understanding of algorithms and data structures.

Practice is essential for improvement. Here are some ways to keep your skills sharp.

Participate in weekly contests. This will help you practice under time pressure and gain interview-like experience. You'll also get to see how other people approach problems.

Practice consistently, even if it's just for a short time each day. This will help you maintain momentum and avoid demotivation. Remember, consistency is key to progress.

When tackling a LeetCode problem, follow a structured approach.

First, implement the naive solution. This will help you understand the problem and identify potential areas for optimization. Then, think about which data structures and algorithms can help you improve the solution. Finally, optimize your code based on your analysis.

Break down hard problems into smaller, manageable parts. This will make them more solvable and easier to understand.

Communication is crucial in technical interviews. Practice explaining your thought process out loud.

This will help you articulate your ideas clearly and confidently. It's also a good way to identify any gaps in your understanding.

Keep track of your progress to stay motivated and identify areas for improvement.

Maintain a journal where you record your solutions, insights, and areas where you struggled. This will help you reinforce learning and identify patterns in your problem-solving approach.

Use tools like Anki cards to create flashcards with code snippets and explanations. This will help you review concepts and solidify your understanding.

Staying motivated is essential for long-term success. Here are some tips.

Turn demotivation into a learning opportunity. Focus on what you can learn from each problem, even if you don't solve it perfectly. Every problem is a chance to grow.

Celebrate small victories. Acknowledge your progress and celebrate your achievements. This will help you stay positive and motivated.

Stay consistent. Even if you only have a few minutes each day, make time for practice. Consistency is key to building strong coding skills.

By following these tips, you can develop a structured approach to solving LeetCode problems and improve your coding skills effectively. Remember, practice, persistence, and a positive attitude are essential for success.