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Leetcode #2862: Maximum Element-Sum of a Complete Subset of Indices

In this guide, we solve Leetcode #2862 Maximum Element-Sum of a Complete Subset of Indices 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.

Leetcode

Problem Statement

You are given a 1-indexed array nums. Your task is to select a complete subset from nums where every pair of selected indices multiplied is a perfect square,.

Quick Facts

  • Difficulty: Hard
  • Premium: No
  • Tags: Array, Math, Number Theory

Intuition

There is a mathematical invariant or formula that directly leads to the result.

Using math avoids unnecessary loops and reduces complexity.

Approach

Derive the formula or update rule, then compute the answer directly.

Handle edge cases like overflow or zero carefully.

Steps:

  • Identify the math relationship.
  • Compute the result with a loop or formula.
  • Handle edge cases.

Python Solution

class Solution: def maximumSum(self, nums: List[int]) -> int: n = len(nums) ans = 0 for k in range(1, n + 1): t = 0 j = 1 while k * j * j <= n: t += nums[k * j * j - 1] j += 1 ans = max(ans, t) return ans

Complexity

The time complexity is O(n)O(n)O(n), where nnn is the length of the array. The space complexity is O(1)O(1)O(1).

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.


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