Wiggle Sort II — LeetCode 324 Python Solution

MediumGreedyArrayDivide and ConquerQuickselectSorting
Problem
#324
Pattern
Greedy
Reading time
3 min

The problem

Given an integer array nums, reorder it such that nums[0] < nums[1] > nums[2] < nums[3].... You may assume the input array always has a valid answer.

Example

Input
nums = [1,5,1,1,6,4]
Output
[1,6,1,5,1,4]
Explanation
[1,4,1,5,1,6] is also accepted.

Python solution

Python
class Solution:
    def wiggleSort(self, nums: List[int]) -> None:
        """
        Do not return anything, modify nums in-place instead.
        """
        arr = sorted(nums)
        n = len(arr)
        i, j = (n - 1) >> 1, n - 1
        for k in range(n):
            if k % 2 == 0:
                nums[k] = arr[i]
                i -= 1
            else:
                nums[k] = arr[j]
                j -= 1

Complexity

MeasureComplexity
TimeO(n log n)
SpaceO(1) to O(n) auxiliary

Pattern: Greedy

Take the locally best option every time — when you can prove that never costs you later. LeetCode 324. Wiggle Sort II is filed here on both counts: the reference solution below belongs to the algorithm family this hub collects, and LeetCode tags it Greedy.

The greedy guide has the Python template for the pattern and the 346 LeetCode problems that use it.

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Frequently asked questions

How hard is LeetCode 324. Wiggle Sort II?
LeetCode 324. Wiggle Sort II is rated Medium on LeetCode.
What topics does LeetCode 324. Wiggle Sort II cover?
LeetCode 324. Wiggle Sort II is tagged Greedy, Array, Divide and Conquer, Quickselect and Sorting on LeetCode.

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