Module 2: Caching
Module Overview
Module 2 focuses on utilizing dictionaries to cache results and understanding Big O Notation for algorithm analysis. You'll learn how to implement caching strategies using dictionaries to optimize performance and gain essential knowledge of time and space complexity analysis.
This module combines practical caching implementation with theoretical understanding of algorithm efficiency, preparing you for both technical interviews and real-world optimization challenges.
Learning Objectives
- Utilize dictionaries to cache results
- Understand Big O Notation
Core Competencies
Objective 1: Utilize dictionaries to cache results
Caching - Part 1 - Understand
Caching - Part 2 - Plan
Caching - Part 3 - Execute
Objective 2: Understand Big O Notation
What is Big O Notation?
Guided Project
In this guided project, we'll explore a particular application of dictionaries called caches. Caching is a fundamental optimization technique used extensively in both technical interviews and industry applications to improve algorithm performance by storing previously computed results. Understanding caching strategies will make you a more effective problem solver and prepare you for real-world software development challenges.
Module Assignment
To reinforce your understanding of caching strategies and Big O analysis and prepare for technical assessments, complete the following activities:
LeetCode Practice
For this sprint, we'll be using LeetCode to practice our problem-solving skills. You should already have a LeetCode account from Sprint 4.
Assignment Tasks
- Log in to your LeetCode account
- Attempt at least 10 problems on your own, focusing on optimization techniques, memoization, and algorithm efficiency
- Complete at least 3 problems from the recommended list below
- Start with problems that involve caching, memoization, dynamic programming, and performance optimization
- For each problem:
- Apply the four-step problem-solving framework
- Document your thought process for each step
- Implement your solution and test it with the provided test cases
- After solving, review the Discussion section to see different approaches
- Analyze the time and space complexity of your solution using Big O notation
- Focus on understanding the problem thoroughly before implementing a solution
- Reflect on which steps of the framework were most challenging for you
- Practice explaining your approach as if you were in a technical interview
Recommended LeetCode Problems
The following medium and hard difficulty problems will help you practice applying caching strategies and Big O analysis:
Regular practice is essential for success on the GCA. The more problems you solve, the more comfortable you'll become with recognizing patterns and applying appropriate techniques.