You're stuck on a coding problem. How can you solve it quickly and efficiently?

This article is so random! The given problem talks about someone 'stuck' on a (coding) problem. This means that the step 2 of 'breaking down', and step 4 of testing and debugging or step 5 of optimizing does not arise! Only meaningful piece of information in this blog is the step 3, which talks about trying to define the problem differently. Moreover, the very topic is kind of stupid! If you are stuck in a problem, your aim is to resolve it. It is not of resolving it 'quickly'. If someone is given a problem and then assigned a time limit, it creates a barrier to creativity. Instead, when you are trying to solve a problem, forget about TIME. It is only in the timelessness, that all creativity exists.

In my experience when facing a coding problem, the first crucial step is ensuring a solid understanding of the problem. Visualize how to tackle it; if you can't solve it manually, coding it will be a challenge. Take a simple example, solve it manually, and note each step. Convert these steps into pseudo code for reference. While some may jump into coding right away, especially for simpler problems, this approach might lead to exhaustion with complex ones. Breaking it down manually and noting steps not only helps you focus but also reduces stress, making the coding process more efficient. Now, let's visualize it with a simple array: [2, 5, 8, 10]. Add even numbers. trying solving it manually and note steps then convert them into a code.

First of all, for solving any problem; try to understand the end goal. When stuck, try to break the problem into multiple points. After that try to solve the points one by one. Then merge the solution efficiently depending upon the solution per step( like multiple steps can run in parallel, few steps can be avoided while merge etc). Most importantly; after finalising the solution and after testing, document it(this is important so that whenever you need this code again or looking for something similar, you already have a solution for yourself and also to help the others). I know this is little random and everyone has to act as per the problem. But this is something we follow in general.

Adding to the other response (because I agree). For me, it's important to understand why I am doing what I am doing, what it is that I want to obtain. For short algorithmic problems, it serves me well to create the test as the first instance.

Clarity is key: Read & reread problem. Inputs? Outputs? Edge cases? Ask if unsure. Divide & conquer: Break complex into smaller, simpler problems. Tackle each step by step. Start simple, then polish: Get a basic solution working first. Test early & often. Debug as you go. Optimize & refine: Once it works, make it better. Consider efficiency & readability. Clear names & comments. Stuck? Take a break: Fresh eyes can work wonders. Ask for help from communities or mentors. Practice makes perfect: The more you code, the better you'll get at solving problems. Learn from mistakes. Remember, there's no single "best" solution. Be systematic, practice, and keep learning!

The best example and most common example of breaking down is the process of digestion. If you see right from the teeth to all the organs break down the food into smaller parts. So this is an inspiration to break down the program into smaller chunks.

There are times when what appears to.be a "coding problem" is really a failure in the requirements. It may be best if you are stuck to look at which requirements are causing the problem, and request a meeting with the person responsive for the requirements. Depending on the organization, it could be almost anyone including the Product Owner, the Architect, or even yesterday-you. If it truly is a "coding problem", then this is an opportunity to discuss the problem with peers and learn from their input. As for "quickly", the best option is to report to you manager that you have trouble, subject the source (requirements or personal rraining), and ask for help with the solution. No manager wants an employee to "go dark".

At first any problem you see looks BIG (even when it's not). How would you solve (BIG which is in your mind) problem is when you understand it clearly. So after understanding it clearly. We should be able to see part of BIG problem which are complex part of problem and which are simple part of problem. Then solve the simple parts first then integrate it. Now solving the complex part of problem might be difficult, there might be a case where,if you resolve simple problem the with regression you would able to see solution to complex part of problem as well. If you are not able to see the solution. Then again categorize the complex complex of problem in simple part and complex part. This might look like recursion but this helps in break down.

The use of graphics tools is very usefull, brainstorming, splitting in logic parts and then analizing one by one, that helps for me.

The second step in addressing any coding problem is to decompose it into smaller, more manageable subproblems. Avoid attempting to solve the entire problem at once, as it can be overwhelming. Instead, break it down into digestible chunks that can be tackled individually. For instance, when constructing a web app, consider dividing it into components such as the user interface, database, logic, and testing. Concentrate on resolving each component separately and integrate them later.

I Contributed to another article by commenting on the essentials to address in this case, but to add a different perspective, here's an extremely effective idea: don't forget to take some time to clear your mind and think about other things. This will help you to see more clearly the next time you look at the same code, allowing you to identify issues you might not have seen before. Of course, this should only be done after attempting to solve the problem for an extended period.

The third step in resolving any coding problem is to employ pseudocode to map out your solution. Pseudocode entails expressing the logic of your program in straightforward English, without being concerned about the syntax or intricacies of a particular programming language. It aids in organizing thoughts, planning steps, and uncovering potential errors or gaps in the solution. You can leverage pseudocode to outline the program's primary structure, the necessary functions or methods, the variables and data structures involved, and the overall logic and flow of the code.

Consider pseudo-code like the first draft of penning down the logic you thought in your brain to paper. It can help you clarify and better understand the problem. It also helps to explain the solution to business users who are not well versed with intricacies of programming languages.

Testing and debugging are essential steps in resolving coding problems; they ensure your code functions correctly and help identify and rectify any issues. Employ various methods like print statements, breakpoints, unit tests, and code reviews, and test your code under different scenarios to check its output and performance thoroughly.

Well-written test cases can act as documentation for developers, testers and other stake holders. Modular programming makes your code more testable and easier to debug.

Também vale destacar se a mudan?a que foi realizada n?o interrompe o funcionamento de nenhum teste que já foi anteriormente implementado.

Testar e depurar é parte da solu??o do problema, sendo extremamente essencial. Para exemplificar sua importancia, é mais fácil fazer o oposto, ou seja, ao invés de dizer seus benefícios, dizer os malefícios que você terá se n?o realizar testes após um problema: - As chances do software se quer funcionar s?o altíssimas - bugs - vulnerabilidades

Tests are fundamental to progressively improve the solution initially proposed and, based on that, to improve the possible errors that may arise, without tests there is no possibility of optimizing.

Let’s say you have an old React project in your org that uses old Redux and an unsupported Node JS version. The SAST report reveals hundreds of vulnerabilities in the open-source packages used. You need to upgrade the dependencies in package.json one by one to the latest version, refactor code to accommodate the change in syntax for later versions of React and Redux and re-write old logic with newer, more efficient syntax by referring to the documentation and migration guides for those particular packages. You can use Prettier extension in VS Code for handling indentation issues in code. When refactoring, choose meaningful names for variables that explain their purpose.

Um exemplo que já vi é a regra do escoteiro que é “uma vez que você sai da área em que está acampando, você deve deixá-la mais limpa do que quando a encontrou” ent?o, quando por ventura for preciso voltar no código, ent?o veja o que pode ser melhorado, afinal nós evoluímos nosso aprendizado ao decorrer do tempo e podemos melhorar o que já foi escrito.

Optimizing as much as possible any implemented code will make it easier to maintain or correct, or even add new structure to existing code.

Utilize platforms like Stack Overflow, YouTube tutorials, and seeking guidance from more experienced developers. While AI tools can offer insights, it's essential not to rely solely on them. Remember that each problem presents a unique learning opportunity.

One of the ways of learning is to learn from other programmers with experience in certain topics, it is always helpful platforms such as stack overflow, youtube videos. Nowadays it is also a good resource to resort to Artificial Intelligence tools, of course without abusing it, since you must "train" the habit of solving problems with logic and code from your own initiative.

Stoke up, step out! As part of trying to solve the problem and not being able to; look at a secondary unrelated tasks you have and choose to do one, but take a calming look at the avenues you have explored before parking this problem. Do that other thing. But if inspiration hits on your main issue then swap back quickly. Sometimes I get solutions over a cup of tea; exercising; when sleeping, ... I've tried to help this by noticing that it worked when I had a alot of knowledge around the problem, it's just that the connections needed for a solution needed both knowledge and not to be the foremost thing being thought about at that time.

All the steps described are textbook software engineering. The article is AI generated and only the clickbait title seems to be written by human. This is misuse (or should I say abuse? ) of AI. Avoid such time waster content generation. There is real work to do than no-value activity.

When stuck on a coding problem, try breaking it down into smaller parts, reviewing documentation, and seeking help from online communities or colleagues. Taking breaks can also provide fresh perspective.

Reflecting on my own experience, early in my career, I encountered a perplexing issue with table view reloads in Swift. Despite thorough research and seeking advice, the solution eluded me. It turned out to be a simple oversight – I hadn't set the delegates correctly. This taught me the importance of methodical problem-solving and the value of revisiting fundamental concepts. By integrating these strategies into your problem-solving approach, you can navigate coding challenges more efficiently, turning them into valuable learning experiences.

Sometimes stepping away and taking a break allows us to engage diffuse thinking which can lead to more avenues in our journey to resolving a complex issue.