Competitive Coding Techniques :

Strategies for Winning Challenges

NIST UNIVERSITY

Presented by
Dr. Brojo Kishore Mishra
Professor and Head
Department of Computer Science and Engineering
NIST University, Berhampur

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 Competitive Coding
Competitive Coding, also known as Competitive Programming, is
a mind sport where participants solve coding problems using
logical and analytical skills. It involves writing efficient algorithms
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to solve well-defined computational problems under time and

space constraints, often during contests or practice sessions on
coding platforms.

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 Key Features of Competitive Coding:
• Problem Solving: Participants are presented with algorithmic
challenges of varying difficulty.
• Code Implementation: Solutions must be implemented in a
programming language like C++, Python, or Java.
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• Optimization: The focus is on writing optimal code with low

time and space complexity.
• Time-Bound Challenges: Participants compete against time to
solve as many problems as possible within a set duration.

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 Popular Platforms:
• Codeforces: Known for a wide range of problems and regular contests.
Website: https://codeforces.com
• LeetCode: Focuses on interview preparation and problem-solving.
Website: https://leetcode.com
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• CodeChef: Offers monthly contests and learning series. Website:

https://www.codechef.com
• HackerRank: Ideal for beginners and technical interview prep. Website:
https://www.hackerrank.com
• Google Coding Competitions, https://codingcompetitions.withgoogle.com

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 Benefits of Competitive Coding:
• Improves problem-solving and analytical thinking skills.
• Prepares individuals for technical interviews at top companies.
• Builds a strong foundation in data structures and algorithms.
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• Encourages participation in global contests and fosters

teamwork in hackathons.

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 Key Areas in Competitive Coding
• Data Structures
– Arrays, Linked Lists, Stacks, Queues.
– Trees, Graphs, Heaps, Hashmaps.
• Algorithms
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– Sorting, Searching.
– Dynamic Programming (DP).
– Graph Algorithms: BFS, DFS, Dijkstra.
– Greedy Algorithms.
• Mathematics and Number Theory
– Modular Arithmetic, Combinatorics.

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 Preparation Strategies
• Choose a Language: C++, Python, or Java.
• Focus on Fundamentals: Master basics of DSA.
• Practice Regularly: Use platforms like Codeforces and CodeChef.
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• Analyze Your Mistakes: Learn from wrong submissions.

• Participate in Contests: Build speed and accuracy.

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 Problem-Solving Approach
• Understand the Problem: Read carefully, identify
inputs/outputs.
• Plan the Solution: Use a dry run or pseudocode.
• Optimize the Code: Ensure efficiency in terms of time and space
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complexity.
• Debug: Test against edge cases and sample inputs.

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 Tips for Winning Challenges
• Time Management: Balance between speed and accuracy.
• Prioritize Easy Questions: Gain momentum early.
• Debug Efficiently: Use IDE features and systematic testing.
• Stay Calm: Avoid panic during tough challenges.
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 Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Misreading Problems: Spend time understanding constraints.
• Inefficient Solutions: Optimize algorithms for large inputs.
• Overlooking Edge Cases: Test thoroughly.
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• Not Practicing Enough: Build consistency.

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 Tools and Resources
• Coding Platforms: Codeforces, LeetCode, AtCoder, etc.
• Tutorials: GeeksforGeeks, HackerEarth, YouTube Channels.
• IDEs: Visual Studio Code, IntelliJ IDEA.
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• Books:

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 Real-Life Applications

• Placement Preparation: High chance of success in coding interviews.

• Open Source Projects: Contribute to real-world problems.
• Hackathons: Win prizes and network with industry leaders.
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• Research: Use coding skills for algorithmic problem-solving in various

domains.

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 Thank You All.
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Dr. Brojo Kishore Mishra

Professor and Head (CSE), NIST University
Director, Next-Gen Research and Innovation Hub
[email protected] / [email protected]
https://www.linkedin.com/in/brojo-kishore-mishra/

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