XML Encoding: Compress XML Element Tree to Byte Stream (CTCI 16.12)

TL;DR

• The Problem: CTCI problem 16.12 technical mechanics.
• The Approach: CTCI problem 16.12: encode an XML element tree into a compact byte format using integer token lookup tables.
• Complexity: Optimal Time and Memory bounds.

This article provides a clear breakdown of CTCI problem 16.12.

1. Context and Problem Statement

CTCI problem 16.12: encode an XML element tree into a compact byte format using integer token lookup tables.

2. Technical Code & Mechanics

// XML Token Encoding:
// 1. Map tag names and attribute keys to integer IDs
// 2. Output tag ID, attribute key-value pairs, END token (0), and child text

3. Key Takeaways and Edge Cases

Always test boundary conditions and invalid input states.