Leetcode #2218: Maximum Value of K Coins From Piles
In this guide, we solve Leetcode #2218 Maximum Value of K Coins From Piles 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
There are n piles of coins on a table. Each pile consists of a positive number of coins of assorted denominations.
Quick Facts
- Difficulty: Hard
- Premium: No
- Tags: Array, Dynamic Programming, Prefix Sum
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: piles = [[1,100,3],[7,8,9]], k = 2
Output: 101
Explanation:
The above diagram shows the different ways we can choose k coins.
The maximum total we can obtain is 101.
Python Solution
class Solution:
def maxValueOfCoins(self, piles: List[List[int]], k: int) -> int:
n = len(piles)
f = [[0] * (k + 1) for _ in range(n + 1)]
for i, nums in enumerate(piles, 1):
s = list(accumulate(nums, initial=0))
for j in range(k + 1):
for h, w in enumerate(s):
if j < h:
break
f[i][j] = max(f[i][j], f[i - 1][j - h] + w)
return f[n][k]
Complexity
The time complexity is , and the space complexity is . 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.