The Algorithm Study Plan: Master LeetCode in 90 Days
A structured approach to data structures and algorithms for technical interviews
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LeetCode has over 3,000 problems. Solving all of them is neither necessary nor efficient. The most successful interview candidates solve 150-200 carefully selected problems that cover the core patterns. This 90-day plan organizes those problems into a progressive curriculum that builds pattern recognition, not just problem-solving ability. The goal is not to memorize solutions — it is to develop the ability to recognize which pattern applies to a new problem and implement it under time pressure.
The plan divides 90 days into six phases of 15 days each, progressing from fundamental data structures through advanced algorithmic techniques. Each phase has specific problem targets, time benchmarks, and pattern recognition goals. Expect to spend 2-3 hours daily. Consistency matters more than marathon sessions — your brain needs sleep to consolidate pattern recognition.
Phase 1 (Days 1-15): Arrays, Strings, and Hash Maps. These are the most commonly tested data structures. Master the two-pointer technique, sliding window, prefix sums, and hash map lookups. Target: solve 30 problems (15 easy, 15 medium). Time benchmark: easy problems in under 15 minutes, medium in under 30 minutes. Key patterns include finding pairs that sum to a target, maximum subarray problems, and string manipulation with hash maps for frequency counting.
Phase 2 (Days 16-30): Linked Lists, Stacks, and Queues. Linked list problems test pointer manipulation skills. Stack problems appear frequently in parsing and evaluation questions. Master the slow/fast pointer technique, stack-based expression evaluation, and monotonic stack patterns. Target: 25 problems (10 easy, 15 medium). Key problems include reversing a linked list in groups, validating parentheses, and implementing a min-stack.
Key Takeaways
- 150-200 well-selected problems covering core patterns are more effective than solving thousands randomly
- Six phases over 90 days progress from arrays through dynamic programming to mock interviews
- Spaced repetition at 3, 7, and 14-day intervals prevents forgetting previously mastered patterns
Frequently Asked Questions
What about: 150-200 well-selected problems covering core patterns are more effective than solving thousands randomly?
150-200 well-selected problems covering core patterns are more effective than solving thousands randomly. Read the full analysis in our article: The Algorithm Study Plan: Master LeetCode in 90 Days.
What about: Six phases over 90 days progress from arrays through dynamic programming to mock interviews?
Six phases over 90 days progress from arrays through dynamic programming to mock interviews. Read the full analysis in our article: The Algorithm Study Plan: Master LeetCode in 90 Days.
What about: Spaced repetition at 3, 7, and 14-day intervals prevents forgetting previously mastered patterns?
Spaced repetition at 3, 7, and 14-day intervals prevents forgetting previously mastered patterns. Read the full analysis in our article: The Algorithm Study Plan: Master LeetCode in 90 Days.
What is the main point of "The Algorithm Study Plan: Master LeetCode in 90 Days"?
A 90-day structured LeetCode plan covering 150-200 problems across six phases. Build pattern recognition, not memorization, with spaced repetition and timed practice.
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