Coding (Algo)

Find a Pattern in a Stream

Algorithm: Prefix function Difficulty: Hard Time: 45 minutes

Goal

Return the first zero-based index where pattern matches text exactly in worst-case linear time or -1 if it never matches.

What this task practices

Find a Pattern in a Stream is a coding (algo) interview exercise that trains prompt interpretation, explicit assumptions, a concrete response, and a clear explanation of tradeoffs. The catalog marks it as hard difficulty. It focuses on Technical Reasoning, Testing, Validation. The signed-in workspace provides the tools for the round and evaluates the attempt against task-specific criteria. Reference solutions, hidden checks, evaluator instructions, and candidate work remain private.