To identify edge cases, consider extreme values, empty inputs, repeated elements, and unusual input patterns that could break the solution.

Edge cases are often the cause of unexpected bugs in competitive programming, and identifying them is essential for writing robust code. Common edge cases include minimum and maximum possible input values, empty inputs, inputs with only one element, inputs with repeated elements, and inputs that might cause division by zero or other unusual behavior. For example, if a problem involves finding a maximum or minimum in an array, think about cases where all elements are the same or where there's only one element. By actively considering edge cases during problem analysis, you can anticipate and prevent errors. Running tests on edge cases, or writing specific checks within the code for these scenarios, can further ensure your solution is both accurate and reliable.