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Write a solution to efficiently search a rotated sorted array.

Python/Codingeasy0.5 min readPremium

**Modified Binary Search:** [4,5,6,7,0,1,2]. Compare mid with left/right to find sorted half; recurse in that half if target in range, else other half. O(log n). **With Duplicates:** Worst case O(n)—can't always know which half....

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Frequency
Low
Asked at 1 company
Category
179
questions in Python/Coding
Difficulty Split
127E|24M|28H
in this category
Total Bank
1,863
across 7 categories
Asked at these companies
Disney+ Hotstar

Why This Question Matters

This easy-level Python/Coding question appears frequently in data engineering interviews at companies like Disney+ Hotstar. While less common, it tests deeper understanding that distinguishes strong candidates.

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Expert Answer
92 words

Modified Binary Search: [4,5,6,7,0,1,2]. Compare mid with left/right to find sorted half; recurse in that half if target in range, else other half. O(log n).

With Duplicates: Worst case O(n)—can't always know which half. May need linear scan.

def search_rotated(nums, target):
lo, hi = 0, len(nums)-1
while lo <= hi:
mid = (lo+hi)//2
if nums[mid] == target: return mid
if nums[lo] <= nums[mid]:
if nums[lo] <= target < nums[mid]: hi = mid-1
else: lo = mid+1
else:
if nums[mid] < target <= nums[hi]: lo = mid+1
else: hi = mid-1
return -1

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