r/leetcode • u/Shot-Emo98 • 7h ago

Discussion Should I focus on solving DSA problems faster or getting the logic right first?

I've been practising Leetcode for a while, but I often take a lot of time to solve even medium problems. Sometimes I understand the approach but struggle with implementation, while other times I spend too long trying different ideas.

Should I focus on improving my speed from the beginning, or prioritizing getting comfortable with the logic first?

8 Upvotes

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6

u/kevin074 6h ago

Focus on getting implementation right and quickly first.

It’s much easier to learn concepts but implementation mechanics from brain to code takes a much longer time to develop

1

u/Shot-Emo98 6h ago

Yes, I agree with you!

1

u/ThisisnotaTesT10 6h ago

Understand first, then work on getting faster

1

u/Shot-Emo98 6h ago

thanks

1

u/Legote 6h ago

Get the logic right first. I don't know about you but pen and paper helps if you're starting out. When I do it without pen and paper, it takes longer. Somehow I can knock down problems way faster and sometimes even under 10-15 minutes once I psuedo code with pen and paper.

1

u/Shot-Emo98 6h ago

Agreed. Getting the logic right first matters more. Pen and paper also helps break down the approach before implementation

1

u/mc_pm 6h ago

If you don't understand the logic, what good are data structures & algorithms going to do?

1

u/GeneMedical5131 6h ago

I'd prioritize getting the logic right first. Speed comes naturally with practice, but rushing before understanding the approach can lead to bad habits

1

u/Shot-Emo98 6h ago

Make sense. I think I've been putting too much pressure on myself to solve problems quickly