What is the two-pointer technique, and how can I use it in TypeScript?
The two-pointer technique involves using two pointers to traverse a data structure. It's useful for solving problems like finding pairs or subarrays that meet specific conditions.
The two-pointer technique is an efficient strategy used to solve problems that involve searching for pairs, triplets, or subarrays that meet specific criteria. It involves placing two pointers at different positions within a data structure, such as an array, and moving them based on the problem's requirements. This approach is particularly useful for solving problems like finding pairs of elements that sum up to a given target, determining the longest substring with unique characters, or merging two sorted arrays. In TypeScript, the two-pointer technique can be implemented in a variety of ways depending on the problem. For instance, in the case of finding a pair of elements that sum to a target, one pointer starts at the beginning of the array and the other at the end. If the sum of the elements at both pointers is equal to the target, you’ve found the pair. If the sum is less than the target, you move the left pointer to the right, and if the sum is greater, you move the right pointer to the left. This method is especially efficient for sorted arrays, as it reduces the time complexity from O(n²) to O(n). The two-pointer technique is widely used in competitive programming and technical interviews due to its simplicity and efficiency.