What is HackerRank and what does it do?

HackerRank is an online platform designed to improve and test your programming skills. Founded in 2012, the platform appeals to a wide range of users, from individual developers to large technology companies. The main goal of HackerRank is to enable users to practice by solving coding problems and to support them to learn and improve themselves in the process.

On the platform, you can find thousands of problems of different difficulty levels. These problems cover a wide range of topics such as algorithms, data structures, math, artificial intelligence, databases, and even technical interview questions for the business world. The highlights of HackerRank are as follows:

• Problem Solving: Coding problems in different categories and difficulty levels.

• Competitions: Regular hackathons and competitive programming competitions.

• Job Opportunities: HackerRank collaborates with technology companies to recruit competent developers.

• Learning Resources: Tutorials on some problems and discussion forums.

HackerRank is a springboard, especially for those aiming for a career in the technology sector. For example, big companies like Google and Amazon use HackerRank-style platforms to test candidates’ problem-solving skills during their recruitment process. That’s why your time at HackerRank is not only an investment in your skills, but also in your career.

4 Effective Tips for Success at HackerRank

Being successful on HackerRank is not just about writing code. With a strategic approach, patience and the right methods, you can make the most of the opportunities offered by the platform. Here are 4 effective suggestions that will help you stand out in HackerRank:

1. Master Basic Algorithms and Data Structures

Most of the problems on HackerRank require knowledge of algorithms and data structures. Therefore, the first step to succeed on the platform is to solidify these fundamentals. For example, you should familiarize yourself with data structures such as arrays, linked lists, stacks, queues, trees and graphs. Also, learning basic algorithms such as sorting algorithms (e.g. QuickSort, MergeSort) and search algorithms (e.g. binary search) will help you solve problems faster.

How Should You Start?

• Use Resources: Books like “Introduction to Algorithms” (Cormen) or Khan Academy’s algorithm tutorials are a great start.

• Practice: Start with easy level problems from HackerRank’s “Algorithms” and “Data Structures” categories.

• Take Small Steps: Progress by solving 1-2 problems every day. For example, classic problems like “Two Sum” will help you understand the basic logic.

These basics will prepare you for the more complex problems on HackerRank and your confidence will grow over time.

2. Develop your Problem Solving Strategy

The problems you face in HackerRank test not only your ability to write code, but also your analytical thinking. Before solving a problem, it is critical to understand it and plan the most efficient solution. Rushing to code often leads to wasted time and mistakes.

For an Effective Strategy:

• Analyze the Problem: Read the question carefully and clarify what is being asked. Understand the logic by examining input-output examples.

• Plan Step by Step: Break down the solution on paper or in your mind. For example, if it is an array sorting problem, first decide which algorithm to use.

• Consider Test Cases: Take corner cases (e.g. empty array, single element) into account. This is often the reason for failed test cases in HackerRank.

• Optimize Your Code: Even if your first solution works, try to improve the time and memory usage. For example, can you find an O(n log n) solution instead of O(n²)?