Leetcode #1896: Minimum Cost to Change the Final Value of Expression
In this guide, we solve Leetcode #1896 Minimum Cost to Change the Final Value of Expression 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 valid boolean expression as a string expression consisting of the characters '1','0','&' (bitwise AND operator),'|' (bitwise OR operator),'(', and ')'. For example, "()1|1" and "(1)&()" are not valid while "1", "(((1))|(0))", and "1|(0&(1))" are valid expressions.
Quick Facts
- Difficulty: Hard
- Premium: No
- Tags: Stack, Math, 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
Input: expression = "1&(0|1)"
Output: 1
Explanation: We can turn "1&(0|1)" into "1&(0&1)" by changing the '|' to a '&' using 1 operation.
The new expression evaluates to 0.
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.