Binary Search Examples: Solved Problems with Step-by-Step Explanations

Problem: Binary Search

Description: Find target in sorted array.

Approach: Compare mid element with target. Eliminate half the search space each iteration.

Complexity: Time O(log n), Space O(1)

Key Insight: This is a classic easy Binary Search problem. Understanding this example helps you solve 5 similar problems.

Interview Tip: Explain your approach before coding. State the time and space complexity upfront.

Problem: Search in Rotated Sorted Array

Description: Search in array that was sorted then rotated.

Approach: Identify which half is sorted, then decide which half to search.

Complexity: Time O(log n), Space O(1)

Key Insight: This is a classic medium Binary Search problem. Understanding this example helps you solve 5 similar problems.

Interview Tip: Explain your approach before coding. State the time and space complexity upfront.

Problem: Median of Two Sorted Arrays

Description: Find median of two sorted arrays in O(log(m+n)).

Approach: Binary search on the smaller array to find the correct partition point.

Complexity: Time O(log n), Space O(1)

Key Insight: This is a classic hard Binary Search problem. Understanding this example helps you solve 5 similar problems.

Interview Tip: Explain your approach before coding. State the time and space complexity upfront.

Each example was chosen because it:

Study the pattern, not just the solution. The goal is to recognize when to apply Binary Search in new, unseen problems.

Before coding, ask yourself:

If 2+ answers are yes, try the Binary Search approach.