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Compute nearest-exit distances in a grid

DoorDashSoftware Engineer · Onsite

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Compute nearest-exit distances in a grid evaluates algorithm design, data structures, correctness, complexity, edge cases, and implementation details in a realistic interview setting. A strong answer states assumptions, handles edge cases, explains trade-offs, and shows how to validate the result clearly.

You are given a 2D grid representing a building floor with three cell types: -1 for walls, 0 for exits, and a large sentinel value for empty rooms. Update each empty room with the Manhattan distance (4-directional moves) to its nearest exit; if unreachable, leave it as the sentinel value. Solve it efficiently and analyze time and space complexity. Follow-ups: extend to a 3D grid (multiple floors) and to weighted movement costs.