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Copy linked list with random pointers efficiently

Last updated: Mar 29, 2026

Quick Overview

This question evaluates proficiency in pointer manipulation, deep-copy semantics, and analysis of time/space complexity when working with complex linked-list structures in the Coding & Algorithms domain.

  • Medium
  • Meta
  • Coding & Algorithms
  • Software Engineer

Copy linked list with random pointers efficiently

Company: Meta

Role: Software Engineer

Category: Coding & Algorithms

Difficulty: Medium

Interview Round: Onsite

Given the head of a singly linked list where each node has next and random pointers, create a deep copy of the list. First provide an O(n) time, O(n) extra space solution using a hash map from original nodes to copies. Then implement an O(n) time, O( 1) extra space approach by interleaving copied nodes with original nodes, fixing random pointers, and restoring the original list. Discuss pitfalls such as null randoms, self-references, and cycles.

Quick Answer: This question evaluates proficiency in pointer manipulation, deep-copy semantics, and analysis of time/space complexity when working with complex linked-list structures in the Coding & Algorithms domain.

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Meta
Jul 15, 2025, 12:00 AM
Software Engineer
Onsite
Coding & Algorithms
1
0

Given the head of a singly linked list where each node has next and random pointers, create a deep copy of the list. First provide an O(n) time, O(n) extra space solution using a hash map from original nodes to copies. Then implement an O(n) time, O(

  1. extra space approach by interleaving copied nodes with original nodes, fixing random pointers, and restoring the original list. Discuss pitfalls such as null randoms, self-references, and cycles.

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