Choose processing order to minimize the total cost while handling all elements exactly once.
You are given an array of elements and a rule for computing the cost of processing them in some order. Your task is to determine the minimum possible total cost to process every element exactly once.
The exact cost model is usually based on how often values repeat or how the chosen order interacts with already processed elements. A good solution typically tracks counts and uses a greedy strategy to avoid paying unnecessary extra cost.
Input Format
- An integer array
nums. - Any additional parameters required by the cost rule are part of the problem definition on the platform.
Output Format
- Return the minimum total cost needed to process all elements.
Constraints
- The array length is finite and suitable for an or better solution.
- Values may repeat.
- The optimal solution should avoid recomputing costs from scratch for every ordering.
Example 1
Input
nums = [1, 2, 1, 2]
Output
2
Explanation
A minimal strategy can process the array by grouping repeated values so that the extra cost from duplicates is reduced.
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