My question concers the post-problem analysis techniques used to extract reusable patterns from problems, both solved and unsolved. I am considering journalling the complete thought process after each problem-recording how i interpreted constraints(eg n<=2e5 implying O(nlogn) as maximum time complexity), how i classified the problem(greedy,DP,binary search,ad-hoc), and what observations led to the final approach

I would like to ask experienced and high-rated problem solvers:what methods do you use to maximise pattern recognition and long-term retention during post-problem analysis? How do you ensure that insights transfer across problems rather than remain isolated?

I have a question. Where exactly is the line drawn when it comes to cheating in a contest? Can LLMs be used just to debug code or fix syntax errors during a contest, or is the use of LLMs/LRMs completely prohibited?

Obviously, generating logic or full solutions using them is totally wrong — that’s not what I’m asking. My question is only about syntax and debugging.

If even syntax correction is not allowed, then by the same logic, shouldn’t Googling syntax during a contest also be considered cheating?