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Implement a match-3 eliminator

Last updated: Mar 29, 2026

Quick Overview

This question evaluates skills in grid and array manipulation, simulation of iterative state changes, and algorithmic complexity analysis within the coding and algorithms domain.

  • Medium
  • TikTok
  • Coding & Algorithms
  • Software Engineer

Implement a match-3 eliminator

Company: TikTok

Role: Software Engineer

Category: Coding & Algorithms

Difficulty: Medium

Interview Round: Technical Screen

Implement a 2D match-3 eliminator: Given an m×n grid of integers, repeatedly remove any cells that belong to a horizontal or vertical run of length ≥ 3 of the same value, apply gravity so cells fall downward within each column to fill gaps, fill emptied cells with zeros (or leave them empty, specify your choice), and repeat until the board stabilizes. Return the final board and analyze time and space complexity.

Quick Answer: This question evaluates skills in grid and array manipulation, simulation of iterative state changes, and algorithmic complexity analysis within the coding and algorithms domain.

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TikTok
Sep 6, 2025, 12:00 AM
Software Engineer
Technical Screen
Coding & Algorithms
2
0

Implement a 2D match-3 eliminator: Given an m×n grid of integers, repeatedly remove any cells that belong to a horizontal or vertical run of length ≥ 3 of the same value, apply gravity so cells fall downward within each column to fill gaps, fill emptied cells with zeros (or leave them empty, specify your choice), and repeat until the board stabilizes. Return the final board and analyze time and space complexity.

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