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Leetcode #1389: Create Target Array in the Given Order

In this guide, we solve Leetcode #1389 Create Target Array in the Given Order in Python and focus on the core idea that makes the solution efficient.

You will see the intuition, the step-by-step method, and a clean Python implementation you can use in interviews.

Leetcode

Problem Statement

Given two arrays of integers nums and index. Your task is to create target array under the following rules: Initially target array is empty.

Quick Facts

  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Premium: No
  • Tags: Array, Simulation

Intuition

The rules are explicit, so simulating the process step by step is safest.

Careful state updates prevent subtle bugs.

Approach

Translate the rules into state updates and apply them in order.

Track the final state or aggregate as required.

Steps:

  • Translate rules into state updates.
  • Iterate for each step.
  • Return the final state.

Example

Input: nums = [0,1,2,3,4], index = [0,1,2,2,1] Output: [0,4,1,3,2] Explanation: nums index target 0 0 [0] 1 1 [0,1] 2 2 [0,1,2] 3 2 [0,1,3,2] 4 1 [0,4,1,3,2]

Python Solution

class Solution: def createTargetArray(self, nums: List[int], index: List[int]) -> List[int]: target = [] for x, i in zip(nums, index): target.insert(i, x) return target

Complexity

The time complexity is O(n2)O(n^2)O(n2), and the space complexity is O(n)O(n)O(n). The space complexity is O(n)O(n)O(n).

Edge Cases and Pitfalls

Watch for boundary values, empty inputs, and duplicate values where applicable. If the problem involves ordering or constraints, confirm the invariant is preserved at every step.

Summary

This Python solution focuses on the essential structure of the problem and keeps the implementation interview-friendly while meeting the constraints.


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