[Solved] You need to generate all possible subsets... Which approach guarantees generating every subset exactly once with a time complexity proportional to the number of subsets times the size of each subset? | Subsets & Combinations

Subsets & Combinations - Subsets Using Bitmask

You need to generate all possible subsets of a given set of distinct integers. Which approach guarantees generating every subset exactly once with a time complexity proportional to the number of subsets times the size of each subset?

AGreedy algorithm that picks elements based on their value order

BEnumerate all bitmasks from 0 to 2^n - 1, selecting elements where bits are set

CDynamic programming to count subsets without generating them

DSorting the array and using two pointers to find pairs

Step-by-Step Solution

Step 1: Understand the problem
We want to generate all subsets of a set, which are 2^n in number.
Step 2: Identify the approach that enumerates all subsets
Bitmask enumeration from 0 to 2^n - 1 maps each bit to an element's inclusion, guaranteeing all subsets exactly once.
Final Answer:
Option B -> Option B
Quick Check:
Bitmask enumeration covers all subsets systematically [OK]

Quick Trick: Bitmask from 0 to 2^n-1 enumerates all subsets [OK]

Common Mistakes:

MISTAKES

Thinking greedy or sorting can generate all subsets efficiently

Trap Explanation:

PITFALL

Greedy or sorting approaches do not generate all subsets; bitmask enumeration is exhaustive and exact.

Interviewer Note:

CONTEXT

Tests if candidate recognizes bitmask enumeration as the canonical subsets generation method.

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More Subsets & Combinations Quizzes

Which approach guarantees generating every subset exactly once with a time complexity proportional to the number of subsets times the size of each subset?

Step 1: Understand the problem

Step 2: Identify the approach that enumerates all subsets

Final Answer:

Quick Check:

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