My First Step into LeetCode and Problem Solving Journey

A BSIT student passionate about software engineering and machine learning began a consistent problem-solving journey on LeetCode, starting with the 'Merge Strings Alternately' problem. The student learned to traverse two strings simultaneously, handle different lengths, and build a new string step by step, gaining confidence in data structures and algorithms.

As a BSIT student passionate about Software Engineering, Data Structures & Algorithms, and Machine Learning, I have recently begun a consistent problem-solving journey on LeetCode. This is my first step toward improving my coding skills and strengthening my logical thinking. One of the first problems I worked on was “Merge Strings Alternately”. At first, it looked simple, but it helped me understand how important it is to break problems into smaller steps and think clearly about edge cases. Through this problem, I learned how to: Traverse two strings simultaneously Handle different lengths of input Build a new string step by step Improve my coding efficiency in Python Here is a simple approach I used: Use two pointers for both strings Alternate characters from each string Append remaining characters when one string ends This small problem gave me confidence that consistent practice is the key to improving in DSA. Key Takeaways Start with small problems and build consistency Focus on logic, not just syntax Practice improves speed and confidence Every problem teaches something new This is just the beginning of my journey. I will continue solving problems, learning new concepts, and sharing my progress here on Medium.