LeetCode for High Frequency Trading

Summary

In this motivational video, the creator shares their journey of preparing for high-frequency trading (HFT) roles, emphasizing the importance of mastering coding fundamentals. They recommend solving key LeetCode problems like the Blind 75 and NeetCode 150, first in a language you're comfortable with (Java), then progressing to C++ for its efficiency. Advanced topics like template metaprogramming and functional programming are also suggested to stand out in interviews. With personal insights from their own interview experiences, the creator encourages viewers to pursue their passions and continuously learn to improve in coding and problem-solving.

Takeaways

• 😀 It's important to express gratitude towards your audience and appreciate their support, as it creates a positive, symbiotic relationship with viewers.
• 😀 Starting out in content creation can be slow, but consistency and organic growth are key to success—just keep uploading and improving.
• 😀 When preparing for coding interviews, starting with foundational questions from resources like Blind 75 and LeetCode is crucial. These questions build problem-solving fundamentals.
• 😀 Solving problems in a language you are comfortable with (like Java) first helps you solidify basic concepts before moving to more complex languages.
• 😀 After completing the Blind 75, advancing to more questions on platforms like LeetCode 150 can expand your knowledge and improve your technical skills.
• 😀 Learning and solving coding problems in C++ (especially C++17/21) is important for high-frequency trading roles, as many companies prefer C++ for algorithmic problem solving.
• 😀 Diving into niche concepts like template meta-programming in C++ can impress interviewers, as it's a specialized skill that sets you apart in high-frequency trading.
• 😀 Exploring functional programming paradigms (e.g., Haskell or Idris) can also be beneficial for developing alternative problem-solving approaches and impressing potential employers.
• 😀 A solid understanding of computer science fundamentals (like data structures and algorithms) is crucial to succeeding in coding challenges and interviews.
• 😀 It’s important to be passionate about your work—whether it’s programming, content creation, or any other field—as that passion drives success and satisfaction in your journey.

Q & A

What was the speaker's main motivation for creating the video?

The speaker was motivated by the positive feedback and support from their audience, especially comments and messages that were encouraging and supportive during their journey of creating videos. They wanted to give back by sharing their experiences and insights about preparing for high-frequency trading coding interviews.

What is the 'Blind 75' and how is it useful for preparing for technical interviews?

The 'Blind 75' is a curated list of 75 LeetCode problems shared by a user on the Blind forum, designed to help candidates prepare for technical interviews, especially for big tech companies. The problems cover a range of topics such as arrays, strings, graphs, and dynamic programming, making it a fundamental resource for interview preparation.

How does the speaker recommend tackling LeetCode problems for interview preparation?

The speaker suggests starting with problems in a language you're comfortable with (like Java) and working through them in a structured manner—starting from the top of the list and moving down. They emphasize solving problems in groups (e.g., arrays, graphs, trees) and building on each problem's concepts to strengthen your understanding.

Why does the speaker recommend transitioning from Java to C++ for high-frequency trading roles?

C++ is often required for high-frequency trading roles due to its performance and low-level memory control. The speaker suggests practicing LeetCode problems in C++ to become familiar with the language's nuances, such as manual memory management, which is essential for high-frequency trading firms.

What is the next step after learning the fundamentals in Java and C++?

After mastering problem-solving in Java and C++, the speaker recommends diving into functional programming, such as learning Haskell and solving the '99 Haskell Problems.' This step helps develop a deeper understanding of problem-solving paradigms and can set you apart during interviews.

What is 'template metaprogramming' in C++ and why is it important?

Template metaprogramming is a technique in C++ that allows computation to be done at compile-time rather than runtime. It's a powerful tool for creating efficient code and can impress interviewers, especially in high-frequency trading firms that value low-level optimizations and advanced problem-solving techniques.

Why does the speaker recommend learning functional programming?

Functional programming, such as Haskell, offers a different problem-solving approach compared to traditional imperative programming. It encourages immutability and function composition, helping to think more abstractly about solutions. The speaker believes that mastering functional programming can give candidates an edge in interviews.

How important are theoretical computer science courses for interview preparation?

Theoretical courses on data structures and algorithms provide a strong foundation for problem-solving. The speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding these concepts at a deeper level and suggests taking online computer science courses to reinforce this knowledge.

What resources does the speaker recommend for learning algorithms and data structures?

The speaker mentions that, apart from the LeetCode and Blind 75 resources, they will share open-source materials and courses related to algorithms and data structures in the comment section of the video. These resources are intended to help those who may not have access to formal education.

What is the motivational message the speaker shares with viewers?

The speaker encourages viewers to pursue their passions, whether it’s coding, making videos, or another interest. They emphasize that doing what excites you will help you succeed and find fulfillment in both personal and professional life.