Combination Sum
Application of Backtracking
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Algorithms and Data Structures: TheAlgorist.com
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System Design: SystemsDesign.Cloud
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Low Level Design: LowLevelDesign.io
Problem Statement:
Given an array of distinct integers candidates and a target integer target, return a list of all unique combinations of candidates where the chosen numbers sum to target. You may return the combinations in any order.
The same number may be chosen from candidates an unlimited number of times. Two combinations are unique if the frequency of at least one of the chosen numbers is different.
It is guaranteed that the number of unique combinations that sum up to target is less than 150 combinations for the given input.
Example 1:
Input: candidates = [2,3,6,7], target = 7
Output: [[2,2,3],[7]]
Explanation:
2 and 3 are candidates, and 2 + 2 + 3 = 7. Note that 2 can be used multiple times.
7 is a candidate, and 7 = 7.
These are the only two combinations.
Example 2:
Input: candidates = [2,3,5], target = 8
Output: [[2,2,2,2],[2,3,3],[3,5]]
Example 3:
Input: candidates = [2], target = 1
Output: []
Example 4:
Input: candidates = [1], target = 1
Output: [[1]]
Example 5:
Input: candidates = [1], target = 2
Output: [[1,1]]
Solution:
- NOTE: I highly recommend going through the Backtracking chapters in the order they are given in the Index page to get the most out of it and be able to build a rock-solid understanding.
Algorithm:
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Python Code:
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Don't forget to take in-depth look at the other backtracking problems because that is what would make you comfortable with using the backtracking template and master the art of Backtracking:
- Letter Case Permutation
- Power Set
- All Paths Between Two Nodes
- Word Search
- Sudoku
- N-Queens
- Word Square
- Generate Parentheses
Instructor:

Abhishek Dey
A Visionary Software Engineer With A Mission To Empower Every Person & Every Organization On The Planet To Achieve More
Microsoft | University of Florida
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