In this video, we solve LeetCode 1404 – Number of Steps to Reduce a Number in Binary Representation to One using the optimal carry simulation approach.
Instead of converting the binary string to a number, we:
• Traverse from right to left
• Simulate binary addition using carry
• Count operations mathematically
• Avoid modifying the string
We cover:
✅ Why we don’t process index 0
✅ Why carry becomes 1 and never resets
✅ Edge cases (power of 2 inputs)
✅ Step-by-step dry run
✅ Clean Java implementation
✅ Time & Space Complexity
This problem strengthens your understanding of:
• Binary arithmetic
• Carry propagation
• Bit manipulation
• Interview-level optimization
⏱ Time Complexity: O(N)
📦 Space Complexity: O(1)
If you’re preparing for coding interviews or solving LeetCode daily, this is a must-know binary pattern.
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