Intervals - Merge Intervals
The following code attempts to merge intervals in-place after sorting. Identify the line that contains a subtle bug causing incorrect results on some inputs.
The following code attempts to merge intervals in-place after sorting. Identify the line that contains a subtle bug causing incorrect results on some inputs.
medium🐞 Bug Identification Q14 of Q15
Step-by-Step Solution
Step 1: Understand the in-place merge modifies intervals up to index.
After merging, only intervals[:index+1] are valid merged intervals.Step 2: Identify the bug in the return statement.
Returning the entire intervals list without slicing includes extra unmerged intervals, causing incorrect output.Final Answer:
Option C -> Option CQuick Check:
Return intervals[:index+1] to exclude leftover intervals. [OK]
Quick Trick: Return sliced intervals after in-place merge [OK]
Common Mistakes:
MISTAKES- Forgetting to slice after in-place merge
- Modifying list while iterating without adjusting index
Trap Explanation:
PITFALL- Returning full list looks correct but includes stale intervals beyond merged index.
Interviewer Note:
CONTEXT- Tests attention to detail and understanding of in-place list modifications.
Master "Merge Intervals" in Intervals
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