Leetcode #384: Shuffle an Array
In this guide, we solve Leetcode #384 Shuffle 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
Given an integer array nums, design an algorithm to randomly shuffle the array. All permutations of the array should be equally likely as a result of the shuffling.
Quick Facts
- Difficulty: Medium
- Premium: No
- Tags: Design, Array, Math, Randomized
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.
Example
Input
["Solution", "shuffle", "reset", "shuffle"]
[[[1, 2, 3]], [], [], []]
Output
[null, [3, 1, 2], [1, 2, 3], [1, 3, 2]]
Explanation
Solution solution = new Solution([1, 2, 3]);
solution.shuffle(); // Shuffle the array [1,2,3] and return its result.
// Any permutation of [1,2,3] must be equally likely to be returned.
// Example: return [3, 1, 2]
solution.reset(); // Resets the array back to its original configuration [1,2,3]. Return [1, 2, 3]
solution.shuffle(); // Returns the random shuffling of array [1,2,3]. Example: return [1, 3, 2]
Python Solution
class Solution:
def __init__(self, nums: List[int]):
self.nums = nums
self.original = nums.copy()
def reset(self) -> List[int]:
self.nums = self.original.copy()
return self.nums
def shuffle(self) -> List[int]:
for i in range(len(self.nums)):
j = random.randrange(i, len(self.nums))
self.nums[i], self.nums[j] = self.nums[j], self.nums[i]
return self.nums
# Your Solution object will be instantiated and called as such:
# obj = Solution(nums)
# param_1 = obj.reset()
# param_2 = obj.shuffle()
Complexity
The time complexity is O(n) or O(1). The space complexity is 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.