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Introduction

CheatSheet: LeetCode

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Welcome

Imagine you’re at your desk, a warm cup of tea beside you, and one LeetCode problem glowing on your screen. You lean in, curious — not frantic. That’s the mindset this sheet wants you to bring.

This sheet is your guide to mastering DSA the smart way. Every problem here is hand-picked from LeetCode. But here’s the secret: the sheet isn’t a shortcut — it’s a roadmap. Read it like a coach whispering strategies, not a cheat sheet handing you answers.

Tip: Don’t skim solutions. Try the problem first. Only after you’ve wrestled with it should you check different approaches — that’s where the real learning happens.

Why this sheet works

Let me tell you why this sheet will be useful on your journey.

  1. Structured learning path - We start from the basics and slowly climb to advanced topics. Each topic connects to the next, so you won’t feel lost. Think of it like building Lego — a foundation first, then the cool towers.

  2. Proven track record - Hundreds of learners used this exact path to land interviews and roles at FAANG, Microsoft, and other top companies. The problems and order are curated for maximum impact.

  3. Time-efficient & focused - Every problem here has a purpose. No duplicates, no fluff. You get high-value practice that's worth your time.

  4. Pattern-based approach - You’ll learn to spot patterns and reuse logic. Instead of memorizing solutions, you’ll build a toolbox of approaches you can apply to new problems.

A friendly workflow

Here’s a simple routine I recommend — treat it like a little script you run each study session:

  1. Read the problem once. Don’t panic. Formulate what the input and output are.

  2. Try your own solution. Even if it’s slow or naive — that’s fine.

  3. If stuck, pause and think for 10–15 minutes. Sketch examples on paper or run through a few cases in your head.

  4. Implement your attempt in Python. Run small tests.

  5. Now read curated approaches in the sheet. Compare — what did you miss? What pattern did the faster solution use?

  6. Refactor and write the clean solution. Add comments and edge-case checks.

  7. Log the pattern and key idea. One sentence is enough.

Final nudge — be patient, be curious

Take your time. Think through each problem. Struggling is part of getting better — it means your brain is learning to see patterns. Use this sheet like a mentor: gently push you, guide you, and leave the room while you build.