Solving Word Ladder using BFS.

Problem

Shortest transformation sequence.

Pattern

This problem demonstrates the BFS pattern.

Approach

BFS with wildcard pattern preprocessing.

Solution 

  // Solution for Word Ladder
// Pattern: BFS
// O(n×m) time

Complexity

O(n×m) time

Best Practices

  • Identify the pattern before coding — pattern recognition saves time
  • Handle edge cases: empty input, single element, duplicates
  • Use descriptive variable names even in timed interviews
  • Test with the provided examples plus one custom case