Path sum: four ways
November 19, 2004
NOTE: This problem is a significantly more challenging version of Problem 81.
In the 5 by 5 matrix below, the minimal path sum from the top left to the bottom right, by moving left, right, up, and down, is indicated in bold red and is equal to 2297.
$$
\begin{pmatrix}
\color{red}{131} & 673 & \color{red}{234} & \color{red}{103} & \color{red}{18}\\
\color{red}{201} & \color{red}{96} & \color{red}{342} & 965 & \color{red}{150}\\
630 & 803 & 746 & \color{red}{422} & \color{red}{111}\\
537 & 699 & 497 & \color{red}{121} & 956\\
805 & 732 & 524 & \color{red}{37} & \color{red}{331}
\end{pmatrix}
$$
Find the minimal path sum, in matrix.txt (right click and "Save Link/Target As..."), a 31K text file containing a 80 by 80 matrix, from the top left to the bottom right by moving left, right, up, and down.
Written by gamwe6 who lives and works in San Francisco building useful things. You should follow him on Twitter