Run-length encoding
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Python Basics · Functions →
Run-length encoding
Compress a string by replacing each run of the same character with that character followed by how many times it repeats: aaabbc → a3b2c1. Always write the count, even when it is 1.
Walk the string tracking the current character and how long its run is. When the next character differs, write out the run (character + count) and start a fresh run. Don't forget to write the last run after the loop ends.
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Write run_length_encode(s) that compresses runs of the same character into the character followed by its run length, e.g. aaabbc becomes a3b2c1. Always include the count, even when it is 1.
Click Run to see the output here.