Leetcode #453: Minimum Moves to Equal Array Elements
In this guide, we solve Leetcode #453 Minimum Moves to Equal Array Elements 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 of size n, return the minimum number of moves required to make all array elements equal. In one move, you can increment n - 1 elements of the array by 1.
Quick Facts
- Difficulty: Medium
- Premium: No
- Tags: Array, Math
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: nums = [1,2,3]
Output: 3
Explanation: Only three moves are needed (remember each move increments two elements):
[1,2,3] => [2,3,3] => [3,4,3] => [4,4,4]
Python Solution
class Solution:
def minMoves(self, nums: List[int]) -> int:
return sum(nums) - min(nums) * len(nums)
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.