Leetcode #63: Unique Paths II
In this guide, we solve Leetcode #63 Unique Paths II 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
You are given an m x n integer array grid. There is a robot initially located at the top-left corner (i.e., grid[0][0]).
Quick Facts
- Difficulty: Medium
- Premium: No
- Tags: Array, Dynamic Programming, Matrix
Intuition
The problem breaks into overlapping subproblems, so caching results prevents exponential repetition.
A carefully chosen DP state captures exactly what we need to build the final answer.
Approach
Define the DP state and recurrence, then compute states in the correct order.
Optionally compress space once the recurrence is clear.
Steps:
- Choose a DP state definition.
- Write the recurrence and base cases.
- Compute states in the correct order.
Example
Input: obstacleGrid = [[0,0,0],[0,1,0],[0,0,0]]
Output: 2
Explanation: There is one obstacle in the middle of the 3x3 grid above.
There are two ways to reach the bottom-right corner:
1. Right -> Right -> Down -> Down
2. Down -> Down -> Right -> Right
Python Solution
class Solution:
def uniquePathsWithObstacles(self, obstacleGrid: List[List[int]]) -> int:
def dfs(i: int, j: int) -> int:
if i >= m or j >= n or obstacleGrid[i][j]:
return 0
if i == m - 1 and j == n - 1:
return 1
return dfs(i + 1, j) + dfs(i, j + 1)
m, n = len(obstacleGrid), len(obstacleGrid[0])
return dfs(0, 0)
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.