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Given the dp array after processing coins [1, 2] for amount=5 as dp = [1,1,2,2,3,3], which coin was processed last?

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Dynamic Programming: Knapsack - Coin Change II (Count Ways)
Given the dp array after processing coins [1, 2] for amount=5 as dp = [1,1,2,2,3,3], which coin was processed last?
ACoin 2 was processed last
BCoin 1 was processed last
CCoin 5 was processed last
DCannot determine from dp array
Step-by-Step Solution
Solution:
  1. Step 1: Understand dp array meaning

    dp[w] counts combinations using processed coins so far.
  2. Step 2: Recognize dp after coin 1 only

    After coin 1, dp = [1,1,1,1,1,1]; after coin 2, dp updates to given array.
  3. Final Answer:

    Option A -> Option A
  4. Quick Check:

    dp matches after processing coin 2 last [OK]
Quick Trick: dp array reflects last processed coin's effect [OK]
Common Mistakes:
MISTAKES
  • Confusing order of coin processing
  • Assuming dp array alone insufficient
Trap Explanation:
PITFALL
  • Candidates may think dp array alone can't reveal last coin processed, but it can.
Interviewer Note:
CONTEXT
  • Tests deep understanding of dp state evolution.
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