Leetcode #1881: Maximum Value after Insertion
In this guide, we solve Leetcode #1881 Maximum Value after Insertion 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
You are given a very large integer n, represented as a string, and an integer digit x. The digits in n and the digit x are in the inclusive range [1, 9], and n may represent a negative number.
Quick Facts
- Difficulty: Medium
- Premium: No
- Tags: Greedy, String
Intuition
A locally optimal choice leads to a globally optimal result for this structure.
That means we can commit to decisions as we scan without backtracking.
Approach
Sort or preprocess if needed, then repeatedly take the best available local choice.
Maintain the minimal state necessary to validate the greedy decision.
Steps:
- Sort or preprocess as needed.
- Iterate and pick the best local option.
- Track the current solution.
Example
Input: n = "99", x = 9
Output: "999"
Explanation: The result is the same regardless of where you insert 9.
Python Solution
class Solution:
def maxValue(self, n: str, x: int) -> str:
i = 0
if n[0] == "-":
i += 1
while i < len(n) and int(n[i]) <= x:
i += 1
else:
while i < len(n) and int(n[i]) >= x:
i += 1
return n[:i] + str(x) + n[i:]
Complexity
The time complexity is , where is the length of . The space complexity is .
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.