Lesson 6 / 25

Two pointers

Use Two pointers to make a clear, evidence-based decision.

Understand Two pointers

Start by naming the decision behind Two pointers. A strong answer explains the goal, the constraints, and the evidence you would use before acting. Do not treat a checklist as understanding: connect each step to the outcome it protects.

Keep the workflow visible

Use this simple path while practising Two pointers: understand the situation, make one deliberate choice, then review the result.

A four-stage workflow for Two pointers.
Figure 2.1 — Decide, act, check and improve.

A useful comparison

Think of Two pointers like planning a journey: a destination without a route is only a wish, while a route without a destination wastes effort.

Check the decision, not just the terminology.

Quick check: What is the most useful way to apply Two pointers?

  • State the goal, constraints and evidence before choosing an action.
  • Copy a template without checking whether it fits.
  • Use the most complex option first.
Answer

State the goal, constraints and evidence before choosing an action. — Good practice makes the reasoning visible, so you can review and improve it.