"Backtracking is basically the backbone of solving regular data structure problems and algorithms."
A person unfamiliar with backtracking will never be able to solve many different problems related to data structures such as, n queens "in time" without successfully performing a mathematical stunt, but those who know backtracking will not fight much.
Now you might be getting a general understanding of how important it is for the programmers and coders to learn the aspects of Backtracking for landing jobs as Software Developers.
In this blog, read the real time applications and uses of Backtracking.
Also, practice a few backtracking coding questions so that you can decide for yourself on how important it is for you to learn backtracking to ace your coding interviews.
What is backtracking in data structures?
A backtracking is a technique that solves a problem by exploring possible solutions to its sub-problem.
For example, if you are trying to solve a math problem, you could try different numbers to see what the answer is. If you find the answer, then you can stop backtracking.
If you find that the answer is not there, then you can backtrack further and try other numbers. Backtracking is a helpful technique because it helps you find solutions that may not have been found otherwise.
Now the question is where do we apply the concept of Backtracking in real time? We may have been using this technique in numerous every day tasks without having a clue altogether!
In reference to that, let's have a look at the different everyday tasks where we extensively use backtracking.
How does learning backtracking help in cracking coding interviews?
Backtracking is a form of an algorithmic technique whose purpose is to find all solutions to a problem using brute force. It's about gradually putting together a set of all possible solutions.
Problems have limits, so in the backtracking algorithm, the solutions that don't meet the limits are removed completely.
With reference to cracking the coding interviews, if you are able to demonstrate efficient backtracking skills, then it would certainly open the gateway for you to land your dream job.
Have a look at some of the real time uses of the Backtracking Algorithm.
Solving decision based problems
Backtracking is a technique used to solve decision problems. This technique is used when there are many possible solutions to a problem, and the decision maker has to choose one of them.
In which case, the decision maker goes back and redoes the problem with a different solution. This is helpful because it allows the decision maker to find the best solution.
Solving optimisation problems
Backtracking algorithms were also discovered to be very effective for solving optimization problems.
They are a type of algorithm that is used when you can't find an optimal solution to a problem. They are also used when there is not enough information to make an optimal decision.
The backtracking algorithm starts with an initial decision, then iterates through all possible outcomes of that decision. The algorithm then selects the best outcome and starts from the beginning.
Solving enumeration problems
In the context of computer science, enumeration refers to listing all the elements within a given set of data.
The Backtracking algorithms were also discovered to be very effective for solving enumeration problems.
The algorithm would start by considering each possible value of n, and then would proceed through each room, comparing it to each value of n. When it reaches a room that is not yet considered, it would backtrack and consider the value of n-1. Continue Reading....
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