CASE STUDY · 1337 / 42 validated project
push_swap
An algorithm project that sorts integers across two stacks using a restricted operation set.
- Role
- 1337 / 42 Developer
- Access
- 1337 / 42 validated project
Context
An algorithm project that sorts integers across two stacks using a restricted operation set. The implementation balances correctness with the curriculum's operation-count limits.
My responsibility
Built and validated through the 1337 / 42 project curriculum, with direct responsibility for implementation, debugging, testing, and evaluation requirements.
System scheme
Engineering scheme
Cost-aware two-stack sorting
The solver evaluates legal stack operations and emits a sequence that sorts the input within the curriculum's move limits.
- 01
Input parser
Validate integers, duplicates, range, and argument forms.
- 02
Rank normalization
Map values to sortable indices while preserving order.
- 03
Stack model
Represent stack A, stack B, and the permitted operations.
- 04
Cost analysis
Estimate rotations and transfers for candidate moves.
- 05
Move selection
Choose and apply the lowest-cost valid operation path.
- 06
Instruction output
Emit the final operation sequence for evaluation.
Implementation breakdown
- 01
System design
A cost-aware sorting strategy evaluates stack rotations and move combinations before applying the selected operation sequence.
Technical scope
Implementation details
- ✓Input parser: Validate integers, duplicates, range, and argument forms.
- ✓Rank normalization: Map values to sortable indices while preserving order.
- ✓Stack model: Represent stack A, stack B, and the permitted operations.
- ✓Cost analysis: Estimate rotations and transfers for candidate moves.
- ✓Move selection: Choose and apply the lowest-cost valid operation path.
- ✓Instruction output: Emit the final operation sequence for evaluation.
Engineering constraints
- →Analyzing enormous arrays dynamically avoiding high time complexity ($O(n^2)$).
- →Aggressively optimizing stack rotation logic mitigating redundant movements.
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