I’m just gonna put it out there. I have been cheating lately with the intermediate algorithms lately.
So I was mid way through the intermediate algorithms when I realized I have been copying off of other people’s codes. At first, I meant to use them as hints to finding the solution. after working for hours on one algorithm, I finally gave in to temptation and scrolled down further to see their solution. Ad this grew into a habit. Sure, I was making progress but at the end of the day, I know I didn’t earn anything.
And I knew I’m just lying to myself and to potential employers in the future. So, I will be starting the intermediate algorithm challenges all over again and this time, I will be patient. really adhering to our Read-Search-Ask policy and try my best to make up solutions of my own.
Please forgive me guys. 
Kevin
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Luke: “Is copy/paste stronger?”
Yoda: “No, no, no. Quicker, easier, more seductive.”
Luke: “But how am I to know original solutions from stack overflow posts?”
Yoda: “You will know… when you are calm, at peace, and on the Balmer Peak.”
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Don’t beat yourself up 
Reading other people’s code is a crucial part of programming, you just did it in the wrong order 
You realised for yourself that you weren’t learning anything (much) and recognised the value in starting again but powered a little more by your own steam.
That in itself is a very valuable lesson.
Good luck!
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Thank you. I’m on the third challenge now and I have been making my own solutions. There are more elegant solutions out there I’m sure, but I feel happier with it. I’ll be sleeping soundly tonight.
On my first pass through the algorithms I would physically wake up in the middle of the night from being dead asleep and have “AH-HA!” moments.
So I wouldn’t put too much stock in sleeping soundly if you’re anything like I was! 
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