5 reasons why you can't solve LeetCode problems (and how to fix it)
As an aspiring developer myself, I can relate to the frustration and the sense of giving up after spending ungodly hours staring at a LeetCode problem, where it feels like your cursor is blinking mockingly on an empty code editor. This is not a unique case for just you and me; it is a scenario that millions of self-taught coders go through daily.
Currently, LeetCode has over 5 million users, but only a small fraction of them can effectively solve around 100 problems. This is a rather sad common pain point in today's tech landscape. Hence, this article dives into the five core reasons why you might struggle to solve LeetCode problems and offers practical fixes to turn things around.
Now, whether you're prepping for interviews at FAANG companies or just looking to build your programming skills, addressing these issues can accelerate your progress.
1. The knowledge gap between syntax and problem-solving
Beginners in this field start their journey by mastering the basic syntax (loops, conditionals, functions), but falter when applying them to solve problems. This is what we call a "knowledge gap" that arises because coding languages teach “how” to write code, not “why” or “when” to use specific approaches.
According to many developers on forums like freeCodeCamp, it's rather normal to struggle with even easy LeetCode problems if you're new to data structures and algorithms (DSA).
The solution? You can close this knowledge gap by focusing on problem-solving fundamentals first.
Start solving the simpler versions of problems. For example, if n=100 confuses you, try n=3 to spot patterns.
Enroll in data structures and algorithms courses that emphasize logical learning over rote coding.
Follow interactive tutorials to learn to build solutions from scratch. This will enable you to solve LeetCode problems more intuitively.
2. Underestimating the importance of Data Structures and Algorithms
LeetCode thrives on DSA-heavy questions (arrays, trees, graphs, and dynamic programming); sadly, many learners often skip these, assuming that general coding would suffice. However, a survey of 643 developers, conducted by Medium, revealed that the topmost issue is struggling with core concepts, which is often linked to impostor syndrome. Moreover, most medium-level problems test your efficiency and optimization skills, not just correctness, necessitating mastery of DSA.
The fix? Focus on mastering DSA right from the start.
Leverage Data structures and algorithms courses through resources, like Tech Interview Handbook, offering cheatsheets of frequent topics like binary search or heaps.
Regularly practice on LeetCode by tagging problems (e.g., "trees"). Make a habit of solving a few after mastering each concept.
Platforms like AlgoCademy offer a guided curriculum with over 290 hand-picked DSA questions, which strengthen your foundation.
3. Difficulty breaking down complex problems
At first glance, you may find LeetCode problems overwhelming. And that is becasue these problems are multi-layered, which requires you to break down the problem first to identify subproblems, edge cases, and optimal solutions.
Furthermore, most DSA problems serve as learning tools and are designed to be of a higher difficulty level. They are not meant to test the intelligence of learners. So, start improving your decomposition skills.
The solution? Grasp the technique of systematic breakdown.
When you get a problem, start by restating it in your own words; then outline steps: input/output, constraints, pseudocode. Solve the easier variants first to build intuition.
Incorporate the same technique into a guided learning path for coding, where you can learn decomposition via structured modules.
4. Lacking a guided learning path
Self-learning is commendable, but if it lacks a structured path, expect the outcome to be chaotic. Likewise, as a self-taught coder, you might unknowingly jump between resources haphazardly, resulting in knowledge gaps and burnout. You will be stuck in a tutorial hell without a proper roadmap. Ultimately, this inconsistent study and efforts derail progress. This necessitates the significance of a guided learning path for coding.
The fix? Research and adopt a structured study plan.
FreeCodeCamp and Quora recommend competitive resources, like SPOJ, for progressive challenges.
Better yet, use platforms that offer a guided learning path for coding, especially for beginners. Follow an efficient study plan, sequence topics logically (basics to advanced). This format ensures steady growth and a potential improvement in career development.
5. Ineffective practice habits
Do you have the habit of moving from problem to problem? Well, that has to change. In the world of coding, you have to grind problems repeatedly and reflect on them to ensure stable progress. Solving LeetCode problems is not about quantity; it's about the quality of your solutions and skills.
Data from Interviewing.io reveals that top performers mostly solve around 500 targeted questions, not thousands of random problems. The most effective practice strategy involves reviewing solutions, understanding optimizations, and working on a time-bound pressure.
What to fix? To improve continuously, you need to practice deliberately:
After solving a problem, compare it with the recommended solutions and note the mistakes.
Schedule daily sessions on LeetCode or HackerRank to focus on your weak areas.
Integrate mocks and peer reviews. This will help refine your habits and problem-solving on LeetCode.
Wrapping up
When you struggle to solve LeetCode problems, do not assume it is a dead end. Rather, it's a signal to refine your learning approach. What you need is a strategy shift from passive learning to active, skill-building. By addressing the above reasons: through targeted fixes, including data structures and algorithms courses, and a guided path, you'll build confidence and fluent skills. Remember, every expert that you see today was once a beginner who refused to give up and, most importantly, learned how to learn systematically.
