Final answer:
The primary objective of a Hackerrank coding competition is to write efficient algorithms. Coding challenges require solutions that are both correct and optimized for performance within constraints.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of a coding competition on the Hackerrank platform, the primary objective is usually b) Writing efficient algorithms. Participants are given coding challenges that they must solve by writing or implementing algorithms that are not only correct but also optimized for performance. Such algorithms need to handle large data sets efficiently and should execute within the time constraints given. It's not just about making any solution work; it's about making the best solution in the context of time and space complexity.
To address the reference provided, a mental shortcut in the form of a general problem-solving framework is called a heuristic. However, in the context of coding competitions like those on Hackerrank, while heuristics might be used, the focus is on developing and coding algorithms that can solve problems systematically and reliably.