DSA Problem Solving Strategies

Question 1

What is the difference between Brute Force and Divide & Conquer?

Answer 1

Brute Force checks all cases, Divide & Conquer splits into subproblems.

Question 2

When should you use Greedy instead of Dynamic Programming?

Answer 2

Greedy makes immediate decisions; DP considers future consequences.

Question 3

How do you decide whether to use BFS or DFS?

Answer 3

BFS is better for shortest paths; DFS is better for tree traversal.

Question 4

How do you optimize a recursive function to avoid stack overflow?

Answer 4

Use Tail Recursion or convert to iteration

Question 5

How do you approach a problem when no obvious algorithm applies?

Answer 5

Start with brute force, analyze constraints, refine approach.

Question 6

How do you decide which data structure to use in a problem?

Answer 6

Consider operations’ time complexity and problem constraints.

Question 7

What is the engineering method?

Answer 7

Explore - identify and clarify, Brainstorm - what are differnt ways I can solve? Plan - Choose most viable option. Implement- apply the option. Verify - TEST!!!