I got the right answer but apparently my verbal explanation was a mess.
Start by clarifying the problem and constraints, then define the subproblem and recurrence relation before coding. Implement the DP solution iteratively or recursively with memoization, and analyze time and space complexity while discussing potential optimizations.
Pro tip: Verbalize your thought process clearly, especially when considering trade-offs between different DP approaches, as interviewers value problem-solving skills over just getting the correct answer.
Restate the problem in your own words, ask clarifying questions about input constraints, expected output, and edge cases.
Identify the subproblems and define the state variables that represent them, explaining what each state means.
Derive the recurrence relation that connects the state to smaller subproblems, and specify base cases.
Choose between top-down (memoization) or bottom-up (tabulation) approach, implement the solution, and consider space optimizations if possible.
Analyze time and space complexity, then walk through test cases including edge cases to verify correctness.
AI-generated suggestions, not part of the candidate's original notes. May be inaccurate — verify before relying on them.