Leetcode #1416: Restore The Array

In this guide, we solve Leetcode #1416 Restore The Array 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.

Problem Statement

A program was supposed to print an array of integers. The program forgot to print whitespaces and the array is printed as a string of digits s and all we know is that all integers in the array were in the range [1, k] and there are no leading zeros in the array.

Quick Facts

• Difficulty: Hard
• Premium: No
• Tags: String, Dynamic Programming

Intuition

The problem breaks into overlapping subproblems, so caching results prevents exponential repetition.

A carefully chosen DP state captures exactly what we need to build the final answer.

Approach

Define the DP state and recurrence, then compute states in the correct order.

Optionally compress space once the recurrence is clear.

Steps:

• Choose a DP state definition.
• Write the recurrence and base cases.
• Compute states in the correct order.

Example

Python Solution

Complexity

The time complexity is O(n·m) (typical). The space complexity is O(n·m) or optimized.

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.