Greedy Algorithms - Monotone Increasing Digits
What is the output of the optimal greedy algorithm when input is
n = 1000?What is the output of the optimal greedy algorithm when input is n = 1000?
medium🧾 Code Trace Q4 of Q15
Step-by-Step Solution
Solution:
Step 1: Trace digits for n=1000
digits = [1,0,0,0]; from right to left, 0 < 1 triggers decrement digits[0] to 0 and marker=1.Step 2: Set digits from marker to end to 9
digits become [0,9,9,9]; integer conversion yields 999.Final Answer:
Option A -> Option AQuick Check:
Largest monotone ≤ 1000 is 999 [OK]
Quick Trick: Leading digit decrement can produce leading zero [OK]
Common Mistakes:
MISTAKES- Assuming output equals input if first digit decremented to zero
- Not handling leading zeros correctly
Trap Explanation:
PITFALL- Candidates expect 1000 or 999, but code produces 999 due to digit fix logic.
Interviewer Note:
CONTEXT- Tests edge case handling with leading zeros after decrement.
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