Array Transformation Steps (Early Career)

Problem Overview

• Core task: Given an integer array, find the minimum steps to form it from an all-zero array by repeatedly adding 1 to any contiguous subarray.
• Inputs/outputs: Input is the target array; output is a single integer (number of steps); constraints not specified.
• Context/domain: Models cumulative range updates and array transformation, e.g., batch increments in schedules or resources.
• Company/SEO: A Google interviews coding interview problem and common interview question for early-career candidates.