Leetcode #1516: Move Sub-Tree of N-Ary Tree
In this guide, we solve Leetcode #1516 Move Sub-Tree of N-Ary Tree 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
Given the root of an N-ary tree of unique values, and two nodes of the tree p and q. You should move the subtree of the node p to become a direct child of node q.
Quick Facts
- Difficulty: Hard
- Premium: Yes
- Tags: Tree, Depth-First Search
Intuition
We need to explore a structure deeply before backing up, which suits DFS.
DFS keeps local context on the call stack and is easy to implement recursively.
Approach
Define a recursive DFS that carries the necessary state.
Combine child results as the recursion unwinds.
Steps:
- Define a recursive DFS with state.
- Visit children and combine results.
- Return the final aggregation.
Example
Input: root = [1,null,2,3,null,4,5,null,6,null,7,8], p = 4, q = 1
Output: [1,null,2,3,4,null,5,null,6,null,7,8]
Explanation: This example follows the second case as node p is in the sub-tree of node q. We move node p with its sub-tree to be a direct child of node q.
Notice that node 4 is the last child of node 1.
Python Solution
Complexity
The time complexity is O(V+E). The space complexity is O(V).
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.