DSA pattern
Linked List
Linked list problems test your ability to manipulate pointers. Key techniques include fast/slow pointers for cycle detection, dummy nodes for edge cases, and in-place reversal without extra space.
When to use
5 signals- 01Cycle detection in lists
- 02Finding the middle element
- 03Reversing lists or sublists
- 04Merging sorted lists
- 05Removing nth node from end
In interviews, call out the pattern early. It helps interviewers follow your reasoning and keeps your implementation focused. After solving, explain tradeoffs in plain language: why this approach is efficient, where it can break, and what edge cases you would test first.
Practice problems
4 listed- 01Reverse Linked ListPractice →
- 02Linked List CyclePractice →
- 03Merge Two Sorted ListsPractice →
- 04Remove Nth From EndPractice →
Build a review loop
Treat each pattern as a repeating cycle, not a one-time read. Solve a fresh problem today, revisit the same pattern in 2-3 days, and run one timed attempt at the end of the week. This turns short-term familiarity into reliable recall for live interviews.
When reviewing, re-derive the core steps from scratch before checking a reference solution. If you can explain the state transitions and edge cases clearly, you are much more likely to execute well under interview pressure.