Topological Sort on grid

Last updated: January 14, 2026

Quick Overview

Apply the Binary Search algorithm on a graph to solve this optimization problem.

LinkedIn
Coding & Algorithms
Software Engineer
LinkedIn
January 14, 2026
Software Engineer
Phone Screen
Coding & Algorithms
Medium

88

7

2,289 solved


Apply the Binary Search algorithm on a graph to solve this optimization problem.

This coding problem is frequently asked during Phone Screen at LinkedIn. The interviewer is testing your ability to translate a problem into clean, working code while discussing time and space complexity. LinkedIn expects candidates to write production-quality code, not just solve the puzzle.

What the Interviewer Expects
  • Recognize the underlying problem pattern (sliding window, two pointers, BFS/DFS, etc.)
  • Discuss multiple approaches and trade-offs before coding
  • Implement an optimal solution with clean, production-quality code
  • Handle all edge cases including boundary conditions and invalid input
  • Optimize both time and space complexity with clear justification
  • Test your solution systematically with well-chosen examples
Key Topics to Cover
Dynamic programming and memoization
Time and space complexity analysis
Hash maps and frequency counting
Sorting and searching
How to Approach This
  1. Clarify input constraints and edge cases before writing code.
  2. Walk through your approach verbally and confirm with the interviewer before coding.
  3. Start with a brute force solution, then optimize. Mention time and space complexity.
  4. Test your solution with examples, including edge cases like empty input or duplicates.
  5. Consider common patterns: sliding window, two pointers, hash map, BFS/DFS, dynamic programming.
Possible Follow-up Questions
  • What happens if the input contains duplicates?
  • How would you test this solution thoroughly?
  • How would your solution change if the input was sorted?
  • How would you modify your solution to handle streaming input?
Sharpen Your Skills on Codemia

Practice similar problems with our interactive workspace, get AI feedback, and track your progress.

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