How to Fix Linked List Intersection Errors

In this tutorial, you'll learn about How to Fix Linked List Intersection Errors. We cover key concepts, practical examples, and best practices.

Fix linked list intersection errors when length difference mismatches or pointer redirection fails.

Quick Fix

Wrong

def inter(a,b):
    while a:
        cb=b
        while cb:
            if a is cb: return a
            cb=cb.next
        a=a.next
    return None

O(n*m) nested loop times out.

Right

def inter(a,b):
    if not a or not b: return None
    pa=a; pb=b
    while pa is not pb:
        pa=pa.next if pa else b
        pb=pb.next if pb else a
    return pa

A=[4,1,8,4,5], B=[5,6,1,8,4,5] intersect at 8. O(n+m).

Prevention

Two-pointer traverses both lists. Redirect to other head at end.

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