7 benefits to work on Leetcode algorithms

March 22, 2022

Introduction

I just had a few very busy weeks to study Leetcode algorithms, and I have chance to practice another 40 algorithms in last three months. I did prepare for Microsoft Vancouver code screen, virtual onsite, and then Meta phone screen. 

7 benefits to work on Leetcode algorithms

I really enjoy time to learn system design, NoSQL like Google bigtable, and also read technical papers, large distributed system course lecture notes, watch videos as well. But it is more important for me to practice Leetcode algorithms. There are so many benefits, and I like to write down a few of them, so that I can continue to maintain the habit to practice, and improve my crafting skills. 

There are 7 benefits I like to talk about, and I just put together in 10 minutes here. 

1. Find my most favorite algorithm in the long time, and I learn to overcome my weakness in terms of design. The algorithm discuss is here.       
2. I was so busy to work on Leetcode algorithm last two months, but total of my submissions is less than 200. Compared to Dr. Lai, last 12 months over 1500 submissions. I also work on my short research to try more submissions, different languages, and also other code from discuss, solutions. If I continue to work on submissions, then I will have more ideas to try.
3. Get more self-control. I did not have any submissions from 2021 June to October. I have to practice self-control, and figure out how to build a good habit to practice. I should practice at least 20 algorithms a month, 10 algorithms a weekend, 3 algorithms a Canadian statue holiday. 
4. I had three mock interviews on interviewing.io this time. I did have very good learning experience as well.  I wrote the discuss post here. 
5. I did some research around leetcode.com, product features for players, locked solutions for premium user, and I still need more time to get to know more players, and read more solutions from others as well. 
6. Understand the book writing is not easy. I have chance to read one chapter of patterns, writen by Li Yin, AI engineer. 
7. I have a lot of good habits to document my practice, and also get better to learn and track my progress. 
8. Meta phone screen is not easy, it is tough. I have to take it seriously, and prepare early.