Leetcode #2496: Maximum Value of a String in an Array
In this guide, we solve Leetcode #2496 Maximum Value of a String in an 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
The value of an alphanumeric string can be defined as: The numeric representation of the string in base 10, if it comprises of digits only. The length of the string, otherwise.
Quick Facts
- Difficulty: Easy
- Premium: No
- Tags: Array, String
Intuition
We need to scan characters while tracking positions or counts.
A simple state machine keeps the logic precise.
Approach
Iterate through the string once and update the state for each character.
Use a map or array if you need fast lookups.
Steps:
- Iterate through characters.
- Maintain necessary state.
- Build or validate the output.
Example
Input: strs = ["alic3","bob","3","4","00000"]
Output: 5
Explanation:
- "alic3" consists of both letters and digits, so its value is its length, i.e. 5.
- "bob" consists only of letters, so its value is also its length, i.e. 3.
- "3" consists only of digits, so its value is its numeric equivalent, i.e. 3.
- "4" also consists only of digits, so its value is 4.
- "00000" consists only of digits, so its value is 0.
Hence, the maximum value is 5, of "alic3".
Python Solution
class Solution:
def maximumValue(self, strs: List[str]) -> int:
def f(s: str) -> int:
return int(s) if all(c.isdigit() for c in s) else len(s)
return max(f(s) for s in strs)
Complexity
The time complexity is O(n). The space complexity is O(1) to O(n).
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.