problem solving interview questions software engineering geeksforgeeks

• Undergraduates
• Ph.Ds & Postdocs
• Prospective Students & Guests
• What is a Community?
• Student Athletes
• First Generation and/or Low Income Students
• International Students
• LGBTQ Students
• Students of Color
• Students with Disabilities
• Student Veterans
• Exploring Careers
• Advertising, Marketing & PR
• Finance, Insurance & Real Estate
• General Management & Leadership Development Programs
• Law & Legal Services
• Startups, Entrepreneurship & Freelance Work
• Environment, Sustainability & Energy
• Media & Communications
• Policy & Think Tanks
• Engineering
• Healthcare, Biotech & Global Public Health
• Life & Physical Sciences
• Programming & Data Science
• Graduate School
• Health Professions
• Business School
• Meet with OCS
• Student Organizations Workshop Request
• OCS Podcast Series
• Office of Fellowships
• Navigating AI in the Job Search Process
• Cover Letters & Correspondence
• Job Market Insights
• Professional Conduct & Etiquette
• Professional Online Identity
• Interview Preparation
• Resource Database
• Yale Career Link
• Jobs, Internships & Other Experiences
• Gap Year & Short-Term Opportunities
• Planning an International Internship
• Funding Your Experience
• Career Fairs/Networking Events
• On-Campus Recruiting
• Job Offers & Salary Negotiation
• Informational Interviewing
• Peer Networking Lists
• Building Your LinkedIn Profile
• YC First Destinations
• YC Four-Year Out
• GSAS Program Statistics
• Statistics & Reports
• Contact OCS
• OCS Mission & Policies
• Additional Yale Career Offices

21 Software Engineering Interview Questions With Answers

• Share This: Share 21 Software Engineering Interview Questions With Answers on Facebook Share 21 Software Engineering Interview Questions With Answers on LinkedIn Share 21 Software Engineering Interview Questions With Answers on X

21 Software Engineering Interview Questions With Answers was originally published on Springboard .

What should you expect in your first software engineering interview? That depends on the role you’ve applied for!

Software engineering jobs tend to fall under two categories: domain-specific or general programming. 

If you’re interviewing for a domain-specific role, expect the questions to center around the specific technology or programming language you specialize in, such as JavaScript, C programming or Angular. These highly technical interviews may also involve a take-home test that requires you to debug or build something. 

For a general programming or web development role, the process is fundamentally different. These interviews evaluate your problem-solving ability as well as your coding proficiency, so recruiters are likely to ask questions ranging from the technical to the behavioral. 

In this blog post, we’ve compiled a list of 21 most common questions in a software engineering interview, along with succinctly-written answers curated from authority sources around the web. 

Technical software engineering interview questions

1. describe the process you use for writing a piece of code, from requirements to delivery. .

“The software development process or life cycle is a structure imposed on the development of a software product. There are several models for such processes, each describing approaches to a variety of tasks or activities that take place during the process.

1. Requirements Analysis

Extracting the requirements of a desired software product is the first task in creating it. While customers probably believe they know what the software is to do, it may require skill and experience in software engineering to recognize incomplete, ambiguous or contradictory requirements.

2. Specification

Specification is the task of precisely describing the software to be written, in a mathematically rigorous way. In practice, most successful specifications are written to understand and fine-tune applications that were already well-developed, although safety-critical software systems are often carefully specified prior to application development. Specifications are most important for external interfaces that must remain stable.

3. Software architecture

The architecture of a software system refers to an abstract representation of that system. Architecture is concerned with making sure the software system will meet the requirements of the product, as well as ensuring that future requirements can be addressed.”

2. What programming languages do you use? Which three do you prefer, or are most familiar with?

“Interviewers are giving more attention to an engineer who has good experience with multiple languages like C++ and Java goes quite well, so is Python and Java.

I personally like Software Engineers who have strong experience in either C++ or Java and can write scripts in Groovy , Perl , or Python .”

3. How do you make sure that your code can handle different kinds of error situations?

“I write tests that describe the expected error situations and check to see that they are handled appropriately. If the software is legacy and prone to generating exceptions, I’ll wrap it up to report the exceptions to get an idea of what needs attention first, and start attacking it there. Of course where required, we’ll use try/catch. Mostly I try to follow the rigorous WOMM development process.”

4. What has your experience been like as part of an agile software development process, if any?

If you don’t have any, it’s still a good idea to demonstrate that you understand the concept. “Agile software development refers to  software development methodologies centered round the idea of iterative development, where requirements and solutions evolve through collaboration between self-organizing cross-functional teams. The ultimate value in Agile development is that it enables teams to deliver value faster, with greater quality and predictability, and greater aptitude to respond to change.”

5. What is responsive design? What is the difference between fixed and fluid layouts? 

“ Responsive website design : Websites that are built with responsive design use media queries to target breakpoints that scale images, wrap text and adjust layout so that the website can ‘shrink to fit’ any size of screen.

Fluid website design: Websites that are built with fluid design use percentages for widths.

Fixed design: Websites that are built using fixed design rely on fixed pixel widths. While a design with fixed dimensions can sometimes be the quickest way to get up and running, it’ll provide a less user-friendly across multiple devices.”

6. What is the software development life cycle? What are the differences between them? 

“SDLC or the Software Development Life Cycle is a process that produces software with the highest quality and lowest cost in the shortest time. SDLC includes a detailed plan for how to develop, alter, maintain, and replace a software system.

SDLC involves several distinct stages, including planning, design, building, testing, and deployment. Popular SDLC models include the waterfall model , spiral model , and Agile model .”

7. What is your process to test and find bugs in an application?

“ Software testing is not a unique approach, but it is a set of tests and assessments that can be conducted at different stages. In fact, testing should be carried out at all stages of development, including after your main launch. Things change, platforms are updated, and errors in mobile apps that were not visible earlier can suddenly appear and wreak havoc…

Usually, this means viewing the application as a whole and setting priorities in any areas that you think are more at risk than others. Tests are then performed to either prove or disprove the functionality, and the detected defects are subsequently recorded. These defects can then be prioritized depending on their impact and severity.”

Quiz-style software engineering interview questions

1. explain ajax (javascript) in as much detail as possible. how does it work what have you used it for in the past.

“AJAX stands for Asynchronous JavaScript and XML. AJAX is a new technique for creating better, faster, and more interactive web applications with the help of XML, HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.”

2. What are some of the building blocks of HTML5?

“HTML5 is the latest version of Hypertext Markup Language, the code that describes web pages. It’s actually three kinds of code: HTML, which provides the structure; Cascading Style Sheets (CSS), which take care of presentation; and JavaScript, which makes things happen… HTML5 has been designed to deliver almost everything you’d want to do online without requiring additional software such as browser plugins. It does everything from animation to apps, music to movies, and can also be used to build incredibly complicated applications that run in your browser.”

3. How do you organize CSS files? What are the pros and cons of this approach? 

“Splitting your CSS across files makes it easier to parcel tasks out to teams. One developer can work on typography-related styles, while another can focus on developing grid components. Teams can split work sensibly and increase overall productivity.

So what might a good file structure that splits the CSS across files look like?

• reset.css: reset and normalization styles; minimal color, border, or font-related declarations
• typography.css: font faces, weights, line heights, sizes, and styles for headings and body text
• layouts.css: styles that manage page layouts and segments, including grids
• forms.css: styles for form controls and labels
• lists.css: list-specific styles
• tables.css: table-specific styles
• carousel.css: styles required for carousel components
• accordion.css: styles for accordion components.”

Interested in becoming a web developer? Our Software Engineering Career Track comes with a deferred tuition and a job guarantee, meaning if you don’t get a job within six months, you get a full refund.*

* Click here to see Springboard’s job guarantee eligibility terms. 

4. What is the purpose of a sandbox? What are some potential alternatives?

“A sandbox is a type of software testing environment that enables the isolated execution of software or programs for independent evaluation, monitoring or testing. In an implementation, a sandbox also may be known as a test server, development server or working directory.”

5. What is black box testing? What is white box testing?

“ Software Testing can be majorly classified into two categories:

Black Box Testing is a software testing method in which the internal structure/ design/ implementation of the item being tested is not known to the tester

White Box Testing is a software testing method in which the internal structure/ design/ implementation of the item being tested is known to the tester.”

6. What are some ways to make websites faster? Name as many different techniques as you can.

• Implement your own content delivery network (CDN). 
• Use adaptive images. 
• Cache, cache, cache.
• Evaluate your plugins.
• Combine images into CSS sprites. 
• Enable HTTP keep-alive response headers.
• Compress your content. 
• Configure expires headers. 
• Minify JavaScript and CSS. 
• Review your hosting package.

7. What is the difference between functional requirements and non-functional requirements?

“Functional requirements are the features that a developed software product is expected to perform. For example, adding a payment option at an eCommerce website will be a functional requirement. Non-functional requirements measure the usability of the application such as User Interface look and feel, Security, Performance, Interoperability, Reliability, etc.”

Behavioral/culture fit software engineering interview questions

1. tell me about a tough software development problem and how you solved it..

“Give a brief description. Make the assumption the other person doesn’t know any specialized vocabulary, or industry-specific challenges. You can also ask the interviewer about their familiarity with the topic you’re about to describe and mold your answer based on the other person’s level of context (a more or less technical answer). Example:

“Three years ago I was working on a small engineering team at a startup and we had an important deadline approaching. Are you familiar with the Agile workflow? We were approaching a sprint deadline, and it was clear our team was behind with only 2 days left to deliver.”’

2. Do you have any personal projects? Tell me about them.

Software developers need to practice coding all the time and stay up-to-date on new programming languages and frameworks. Recruiters look for candidates that have a genuine passion for programming and personal projects, however big or small, are one of the best ways to demonstrate your dedication to your field. 

3. Explain the concept of cloud computing to my older (not-very-technical) mother.

This question is a test of your communication skills. One of the most important traits in a successful software developer is the ability to explain technical concepts to non-techies, which is essential when interfacing with a client and gathering the requirements for a project. 

“In the simplest terms, cloud computing means storing and accessing data and programs over the Internet instead of your computer’s hard drive. The cloud is just a metaphor for the Internet.”

4. Have you ever disagreed with your boss or manager? What did you do?

Conflict management is an important skill in any teamwork-oriented role. The ability to diplomatically disagree with someone — especially your superior or direct report — is especially valuable in a startup, where recruiters are likely to prefer candidates with experience of “managing up.” When answering this question, be sure to report the facts of the situation in a neutral fashion, without placing blame on the dissenting party. 

5. Why do you want to work at [company name]? Have you used our products?

Empathy and customer focus are qualities recruiters value in software engineering candidates. If you have experience with the company’s products and services, you’re more likely to put yourself in the customer’s shoes and understand their pain points. 

“How can you help the company succeed? Read up on what’s happening with the company and its industry. What stage of growth is the business in? Has it recently changed its product or service offerings? What competitive pressures is it facing? Consider this landscape and think, “What knowledge and experience do I have that would be especially useful to this employer in this time of growth and/or change?”’

6. When do you consider a product to be finished?

In software development, a product is never really “finished.” What the recruiter really wants to know is your level of dedication and attention to detail. It’s acceptable to mention some level of software testing or verification as the point where the buck stops. 

7. Teach me about something for the next 10 minutes.

Select a topic in which you possess a deep knowledge. It needn’t be technical; you just need to be able to explain it in a way that is engaging and devoid of jargon. 

The post 21 Software Engineering Interview Questions With Answers appeared first on Springboard Blog .

Office of Career Strategy

Visiting yale.

• Skills Intelligence Cloud
• Talent Acquisition
• Talent Management
• Campus Recruitment
• World Largest Skill Library
• English Communication Assessment
• Skills Intelligence Blogs
• Skills Taxonomy
• Skill Mapping
• Skills Intelligence: Hiring Metric
• Tech Skills Transformation Report
• JD Templates
• HR Glossary

Build Winning Teams with iMocha

20+ problem-solving interview questions for software engineer, company news, diversity & inclusion, imocha engineering product updates remote hiring skills assessment.

• Tech Recruitment (230)
• Skills Assessment (172)
• Remote Hiring (117)
• L&D (62)
• Company News (53)
• Product Updates (33)
• Skills gap analysis (23)
• Diversity & Inclusion (19)

Would you believe knowing your employees' problem-solving skills can help you exert control over the future? Well yes! Problem-solving and problem-solving processes are critical parts of our everyday lives. We ought to develop and refine these skills through day-to-day problems while working in a professional environment.

But did you know you can set a relaxing and streamlined tone throughout the team by learning the candidate's propensity towards problematic situations? When you measure a candidate's problem-solving skills and complexity, you can make informed and logical decisions in critical cases. Therefore, you can hand over the right situation to the right candidate, avoiding all the last-minute hassle and stress among the team.

Want to learn more about problem-solving skills and problem-solving, problem-solving interview questions for software engineers, skills etc.? Keep reading.

What is a problem-solving interview?

Moving on to the next most crucial aspect, how do you define problem-solving interviews?

Problem-solving interviews are mainly used to identify, assess and evaluate an applicant's approach to critical and difficult situations. Since problems are inevitable in every industry, having a candidate with strong problem-solving abilities could be of great use.

Here are the core steps the candidate must follow while solving a problem

• Identifying and determining the problem
• Coming up with all possible solutions
• Evaluate and eliminate the option
• Figure out the best solution
• Implement the solution
• Estimate the outcome

What are the key takeaways for effective problem-solving interview questions?

Good problem-solving interview questions are designed to gauge a candidate's aptitude for identifying, analyzing, and resolving intricate issues. The following are some important considerations for formulating and performing successful problem-solving interview questions:

• Adapt questions to job requirements: Questions should be adapted to the particular job requirements. Ask questions that are specifically related to the aptitudes and skills needed for the position.
• Employ behavioral inquiries: Behavioral inquiries ask the candidate to provide concrete examples of times when they have addressed challenges. This method aids in evaluating a candidate's capacity for problem-solving as well as their ability to explain their reasoning.
• Employ open-ended inquiries: Open-ended inquiries provide the applicant the chance to show off their imagination and critical thinking abilities. These inquiries are meant to get the candidate to consider options beyond the obvious.
• Employ hypothetical questions: Using hypothetical questions can help assess a candidate's creativity and problem-solving abilities. These can be used to judge a candidate's capacity for situational analysis and idea generation.
• Suggest follow-up inquiries: The interviewer can go deeper into a candidate's cognitive process with the help of follow-up questions. Also, they can be used to shed light on the candidate's responses and point out any areas that may require further improvement.
•  Analyze your problem-solving abilities overall: It's crucial to consider a candidate's capacity to provide solutions, implement them, and evaluate their efficacy while assessing their problem-solving skills.
• Check for signs of cooperation: Working with people to solve problems is frequently a collaborative process. So, you must look for proof that the applicant can identify challenges and collaborate with others to find solutions.

These important lessons can help interviewers construct problem-solving interview questions that accurately gauge a candidate's capacity to take on challenging situations and come up with workable answers.

Which job positions can use problem-solving interview questions?

Here's the list of job positions that requires problem-solving interview questions:

• IT developers
• Business Analyst
• Data Scientist
• Logistic manager
• Software Technical support
• Senior IT Specialist
• Technical Customer Support
• Software Engineer
• Technical Consultant

Want to assess the candidate's problem-solving abilities within half-time? Try iMocha's   Aptitude assessments.

How to assess problem-solving skills of a software engineer?

Assessing software engineers demands rigorous time and work through thousands of resumes, then interviews. But this entire procedure can be streamlined by using a top leading talent assessment portal such as   iMocha .

iMocha offers that can help recruiters determine the prospect's potential, skills, dexterity, and reliability for the offered position. Using iMocha's world's most extensive content library of 2500+ skills, hiring managers can prepare for various job roles; such recruiters can prepare customized tests for problem-solving interview questions for software engineers to assess non-technical skills.

To assess candidates' technical skills, iMocha offers an exclusive set of AI-driven advanced features such as

• AI-LogicBox;   stimulates a pseudo coding environment resulting in reduced candidate turnover time.
• Live coding interview;   evaluate candidates' logical thinking and problem-solving capabilities remotely
• Code Replay;   enables employers to observe how applicants write code in order to assess their approach to problem-solving.   

We have broken-down problem-solving questions into technical and non-technical categories.

Examples of technical problem-solving interview questions to ask for software engineer

• How would you troubleshoot and debug a system?
• How to scale a web application to handle increased traffic?
• Explain how to implement a load balancer for a web application.
• Explain the approach to resolving a security vulnerability in a software system.
• Explain how you would optimize the performance of a specific algorithm.
• How would you resolve a compatibility issue between different system components?
• Explain the approach to resolving a data integrity issue in a database.
• How would you resolve a configuration management issue in a system?  
• How would you resolve a cross-browser compatibility issue in a web application?  
• Explain implementing a data backup and recovery strategy for a system.  

Examples of non-technical problem-solving interview questions to ask for software engineer  

• Have you experienced a stressful situation? If yes, how did you handle it?  
• How would you handle project deadlines in a situation where a project is falling behind schedule?  
• Can you give an example where you identified a problem and took action to prevent it from happening?  
• How do you stay organized and manage your workload effectively?  
• What are your great learnings from mistakes? How did you manage your mistakes?  
• How do you stay focused and motivated when working on long-term projects or tasks?  
• What strategies did you implement to achieve your goals?  
• How good are you at maintaining documents of your programming work?  
• How do you manage the priority and scope of work?  
• What makes you a great problem solver?  

How to customize problem-solving Interview questions

Integrating iMocha's ready-made job-role-based tests and content library with your own interview questions allows you to create customized problem-solving interview questions for software engineers for any other role.

Software Engineer problem-solving questions will expose candidates to a series of hypothetical scenarios. By analyzing candidates' answers, recruiters will be able to understand and determine the extent to which a candidate can implement their problem-solving questions.  

If you're looking forward to making an informed and data-driven hiring decision, try iMocha's skills assessments. iMocha offers an array of skills assessments, including aptitude, critical thinking, business analysis, cognitive ability, and more. Explore iMocha's vast skill library to find job-specific skill assessments.   

Why should software engineers be tested on their problem-solving abilities?   

Since problems are inevitable in any industry or business, acquiring strong problem-solving skills is indispensable. As a software developer, your ability to detect and solve software issues using deductive reasoning is crucial to your success.

Payal Rajpoot

Understanding talent analytics is vital for your organization's growth. stay ahead of the curve with imocha's insights., subscribe to our blog, related posts, top 12 skills tracking software 2024.

As a business, you need comprehensive and in-depth insights into your talent pool. Insights about your workforce’s skills, experience, and education, among other things.

• Aaditya Mandloi
• 24 min read
• 3/22/24 11:53 AM

Top 06 Skills Inventory Software to Consider in 2024

Today, businesses across industries face difficulties in keeping track of their workforce’s skills and capabilities, leading to missed opportunities, wasted resources, and mismatched project assignments.

• 25 min read
• 3/11/24 3:00 AM

Top 5 Skills Audit Tools to Consider in 2024

In a dynamic global skills landscape where job descriptions are ever-evolving, many organizations think their talent pool is scarce on skills. It’s because they lack visibility into their workforce’s knowledge, skills, and abilities.

• 3/7/24 7:12 PM

Skills Intelligence

Skills Intelligence Blogs Employee Skill Gap Analysis Employee Internal Mobility Strategic Workforce Planning Skills Intelligence: Hiring Metric Tech Skills Transformation Report

JD Templates HR Glossary Skill Mapping Webinars Guides Talent Assessment Blogs

Skills Intelligence Cloud Talent Acquisition Talent Management World Largest Skill Library English Communication Assessment Assessment Innovation

About us Customers Integrations Newsroom GDPR Contact us

Software Engineer Interview Prep: 8 Developers Share Their Experiences

While domain-specific software engineering interviews might require, say, a deep knowledge of a framework like Angular, others focus on the overall programming approach. For these types of interviews or questions, it's beneficial to show you have a keen problem-solving ability and the drive to build something optimal, rather than that you can finish a test quickly. 

The key to demonstrating your strengths isn’t hiding behind a veil of flawless technical knowledge, but rather explaining what wisdom you’ve gathered from past mistakes. While every company takes a slightly different approach to software engineering interviews and coding tests, there are quite a few tools candidates can utilize to prepare themselves as best as possible. We asked eight experts about how they’ve prepared for — and tackled — some of their toughest software engineer interview questions .

Preparing For Software Engineering Interview Questions

• Work on practice problems
• Review technologies used by the company
• Write it out. Utilize a white board and step away from the text editor
• Brush up on algorithms, main data structures and anything else related to the position

YOU’VE FOUND A POSTING FOR YOUR DREAM JOB AND LANDED AN INTERVIEW. HOW WOULD YOU PREPARE FOR THE CODING TEST?

CHANCE LYON, TECHNICAL DIRECTOR

IllFonic  Technical Director Chance Lyon said using a whiteboard to work through interview questions is necessary in order to know what it’s like to code outside of a text editor.

At IllFonic we look for two key things during a technical interview : A deep understanding of the language and the ability to reason out problems in real-time. Take some time and review the C++ standard and keywords to ensure that you understand them all (even the most rarely used ones). There are only 30 total. 

Second, practice working through interview questions on a whiteboard to get used to the feel of coding outside of a text editor. Talking through the code out loud while you work on a whiteboard challenge is also important for us to understand your thought process. If you get stuck for too long, ask for help. They are challenging on purpose and can have several solutions.

View Jobs + Learn More

TRAVIS GLOVER, FULL-STACK SOFTWARE DEVELOPER

Travis Glover, full-stack software developer at  Convoso , comes to interviews prepared. Specifically, he recommends having a constantly updated portfolio of side-projects handy to reference over the course of a conversation. Proof of game or app development, he said, underlines your dedication to the work and, consequently, the role. 

And if you get a technical question about a subject you’re unfamiliar with? Honesty is the best policy. 

First, I would think about what technology the company uses so I could focus on studying the languages and concepts that might be on the test. Then, I would search for free coding tests that cover these technologies. Hackerrank, leetcode and the like are a good source for common technical and algorithmic interview questions.  

"Hackerrank, leetcode and the like are a good source for common technical and algorithmic interview questions.’’

I would also make sure I had the algorithms fresh in my mind. It’s always a good idea to have a well-fleshed-out portfolio of side projects. This allows me to easily show off my ability to build an app or product from the ground up.

MYTHICAL GAMES

Alex moir, senior software engineer.

For Alex Moir, senior software engineer at  Mythical Games , college didn’t prepare him for all engineering challenges, especially in terms of iteration. Brushing up on main data structures and algorithms and re-reading “Cracking the Code Interview” are how he preps for future interviews.

Read “Cracking the Coding Interview” by Gayle Laakmann McDowell (again). Pull out my portable little whiteboard and start answering problems. Google “software interview questions.” Brush up on the main data structures and algorithms like binary search. Practice system design. Remind myself to stay calm and things will be fine! 

LUKE YEN, GAME ENGINEERING LEAD

Zwift ’s Game Engineering Lead Luke Yen sees software engineering interviews just as much a company evaluation as a test of the candidate’s individual skill. If an employer seems condescending or competitive, it could be your cue to cut your losses.

Yen also recommends swaying difficult questions in your favor by focusing on specific strengths, like individual communication style or attention to detail despite unfamiliarity with a certain program. 

Read the skills requirement and make sure you brush up on anything related to the position. I’ve seen engineers claim they’re familiar with algorithms, C++ or 3D math and then have difficulty providing the definition of some of the more basic terms. Most importantly, however, control your nerves and keep an open mind going into the interview. It’s not the interviewer’s job to defeat the interviewees by asking incredibly difficult questions or to show that they’re the smartest person in the room. At previous companies, I’ve seen interviewers come back from interviews boasting to the rest of the team that they  “ broke ”  the interviewees. If you ever interview at a company that conducts high-stress interviews like this, it speaks volumes to the culture. That’s probably not the place you want to dedicate your time for the next couple of years. 

The right questions should allow interviewers to work with the interviewees to evaluate their logical thought process and ability to communicate ideas. So the best way to prepare is by knowing that you probably won’t have all the answers off the bat. Make sure you fully understand the problem by asking questions before you start to work on it. Communicate throughout the process so interviewers can continue to guide you. And always check your algorithm and look for edge cases once you arrive at a solution.  

SYLVIE SHERMAN, SENIOR SOFTWARE ENGINEER

Partial credit isn’t reserved for seventh grade math exams; many coding tests are designed with the thought process behind the final response in mind.

According to Sylvie Sherman, senior software engineer at  WEVR , showing your thought process can make all the difference in an interview. For difficult questions about previous roadblocks, Sherman comes prepared with a coherent answer format that speaks to her problem-solving ability.  

Find out as much information as you can about the format of the test. How many questions will there be? How will you be answering them? Will it be done on your own time or with an interviewer? 

Do practice tests online and read up on anything you struggle with or any particular language features you think might be important. If your test is going to be with an interviewer, it’s important to talk about your thought process during your practice tests, even if you’re talking to yourself. Correctly answering a coding test is great. But explaining your thought process and approach is the part that really counts.

More Interview Tips The Ideal Interview Template For Software Engineers

MICHAEL HUFFMAN, PRINCIPAL SOFTWARE ENGINEER

While it's beneficial to go into a blind date with no preconceived notions of the other party, the same guidelines do not apply to interviews. Michael Huffman, principal software engineer at  Rapid7 , recommends learning the names of not only the company founders but any employees you might be directly working with or whose work you admire.

First, I would learn as much about the company as possible. During an interview, a company wants to hear why they are a good fit for you and that you are genuinely interested in their domain, technologies and solutions. Learn the names of founders and CTOs and for extra credit, ask questions during the interview about how certain employees in the company grew and evolved during their careers. An interview should not be a blind date.

SASHA TAILOR, SOFTWARE ENGINEER

Sasha Tailor, software engineer at  Ribbon , has found that the most helpful thing you can do before and during an interview is to ask questions. If you’re not comfortable going directly to your interviewer, make use of the ample resources available online. This includes working through practice problems and having a prior understanding of everything from question layout to dress code. The fewer surprises you have going in, the more you can focus on showing off your skill set, Tailor said. 

If you’re using a headhunter, ask them about previous applicants’ interviews and see if there is any information about the process on Glassdoor. Most companies are fairly open about their interviewing processes and will give you information about the type of coding challenge you’re going to get, as well as whether you will be coding in a Google doc, screen share or something like CodePen. I’ve found that almost every company has been willing to give more detailed information when asked. 

Use resources such as Hackerrank, CTCI and GeeksforGeeks for practice problems and become familiar with whichever code editor you will be using in the interview, including how to debug, compile and run test cases. 

CHRISTIE RAMSARAN, SOFTWARE ENGINEER

In previous interviews, Software Engineer Christie Ramsaran said she focuses on not allowing the stressful environment to distract her from gathering the information she needs to generate thoughtful responses. Taking your time to provide informed, insightful answers,  theSkimm  coder said, is not only perfectly acceptable. It’s responsible. 

I always start by researching the company to better understand the interview process. Every company approaches coding interviews in a different way. The recruiter is a great resource. I ask if I’ll be whiteboarding or using a laptop, and whether I’ll be pairing with a developer at the company. I also ask if the recruiter can share a list of common topics. From there, I study any topics that feel particularly rusty and reread “Cracking the Coding Interview” by Gayle Laakmann McDowell. 

"I study any topics that feel particularly rusty and reread ‘Cracking the Coding Interview’ by Gayle Laakmann McDowell.’’ 

Finally, practice questions. I usually source questions from the same book or one of the many online coding challenges banks. I recommend finding a buddy to simulate an interview.   

WHAT ARE THE TOUGHEST OR MOST CHALLENGING INTERVIEW QUESTIONS THAT YOU'VE BEEN ASKED, AND HOW DID YOU RESPOND?

Chance lyon,  illfonic.

I was once interviewed at a large company known for its logic puzzle interview questions. For instance, “If you had an infinite supply of water and a 5-quart and a 3-quart pail, how would you measure exactly 4 quarts? And what is the least number of steps you need?”  

These types of questions can be quite difficult until you have the “epiphany”  moment, and are not very useful for determining programming talent. In another interview, I was simply told to “code Tic-Tac-Toe,”  and they let me go at it on a whiteboard for a few hours. A very large task with not much instruction. I didn't take the job.

TRAVIS GLOVER,  CONVOSO

The toughest questions I’ve been asked have always related to subject matter where I have little expertise. Whenever this happens, I try to answer the question as accurately and honestly as possible. 

In my experience, however, non-technical interview questions are not particularly difficult. The trick is remembering that honesty will always guide you to the best answer. Furthermore, hypothetical questions do not necessarily have a right and wrong answer and can offer room for thought leadership.

ALEX MOIR,  MYTHICAL GAMES

Knowing the right scenario and when to use recursion is a helpful interview skill. Early in my career, I was asked a pretty challenging algorithm question that I tried to solve without doing recursion, which was a bad move. I was taught in college to always try iterative first, which just isn’t practical for interviews. Even if you are told that you need recursion, this stumps people; trying to do it iteratively is impossible and you run out of room on the whiteboard. 

Staying calm and composed goes a long way because it is easy to get sidetracked worrying about time limits or feeling pressured by the various life changes you may have to consider when getting a new job. 

LUKE YEN,  ZWIFT

“ How would you rate yourself from 1-10, one being the worst and 10 being the best, at [skill sets]? ”

This is a simple yet incredibly difficult question to answer. Although most of the time the interviewer is genuinely curious how an interviewee rates themselves at a certain skill set, the question might be maliciously intended or create an unconscious bias. If an interviewee answers anything less than five, the follow-up question is usually along the lines of,  “ Why so subpar? ”  Conversely, if an interviewee answers anything greater than seven, get ready for tougher questions to follow. If you answer with anything between six and seven, you run the risk of appearing mediocre.

When I run into a question like this, I usually point out that it’s difficult to answer. It largely depends on my day-to-day condition. I have good days and I have bad days. On days where I feel like I am at the top of my game, I usually rate myself higher overall. But if I woke up on the wrong side of the bed, I usually rate myself lower. In addition, as technical knowledge like C/C++ contains a broad scope of different fields, I might rate myself higher in areas I am familiar with and lower where I don’t have as much exposure. This response usually garners follow-up questions geared toward the fields of familiarity. Alter the questioning strategy to your advantage.

SYLVIE SHERMAN,  WEVR

I think questions about the biggest problems one has encountered in the past are really important to answer well, but can be difficult to speak about effectively. For questions like these, I try to follow a format in my answers. 

First, I explain the issue clearly, showing that I understand what the root of it was. Then, I explain what I tried that didn’t work and why. Finally, I explain how I ended up fixing it, the process that led me to that solution and how I’ve used knowledge gained from that experience moving forward. I want to show understanding above all, rather than stress the magnitude or difficulty of the problem.

MICHAEL HUFFMAN,  RAPID7

Unanswerable questions or questions that ask you to judge, guess or hypothesize an answer in a non-technical domain. Examples include, “How many tons of metal were used to construct the Eiffel Tower?” and “How many cars are in Los Angeles?” These pressure you to use creative thinking skills, interpolation and intuition. Great candidates will confidently ask questions, make sound judgement calls when guessing and come much closer than they expect.

SASHA TAILOR,  RIBBON

I had an in-person interview scheduled and not a lot of prep time, and there was going to be a refactoring exercise in a language and framework that I had no experience in. To prepare, I practiced using CodeAcademy and I researched common refactoring problems and best practices. It was clear from my resume that I didn’t know this language. But to manage expectations, I also let them know ahead of time by email, and brought it up in person to my interviewer. I wasn’t able to do the exercise as quickly as I would have liked, but I was able to clearly talk through my thought process and show understanding of the framework. It showed I could communicate and had a steep learning curve, which are valuable assets in an employee.

CHRISTIE RAMSARAN,  THESKIMM

I often find vague interview questions the most challenging. For example, I was once asked how I would replicate a feature from the interviewer’s code editor. Unfamiliar with the feature, I struggled to find an answer. I asked clarifying questions and ultimately responded with the data structure that would best suit the task. In hindsight, I should have spent more time understanding the problem before diving into a response.

Up Next 4 Ways to Ace Your Virtual Interview

Great Companies Need Great People. That's Where We Come In.

Top Software Engineer Interview Questions and Answers

Explore key questions and expert answers to navigate software engineering interviews, covering coding, systems design, and problem-solving skills.

Looking for Software Engineers ? Build your product with Flexiple's dream talent.

The top Software Engineer interview questions and answers are tailored for aspirants eager to excel in the evolving tech landscape, providing a comprehensive exploration from foundational concepts to intricate software engineering principles. This collection is meticulously designed to prepare candidates for interviews across various domains in software development, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of both theoretical and practical aspects of engineering.

Whether you're embarking on your technology journey or are an experienced professional aiming to refine your expertise, these insights offer invaluable guidance to bolster your knowledge and confidence. By delving into these questions and answers, you are equipped to navigate the complexities of software engineering interviews, making a compelling impression in your pursuit of excellence within the field.

Common Software Engineer Interview Questions and Answers

Common software engineer interview questions and answers are tailored to assess a candidate's problem-solving skills, coding proficiency, and understanding of software development principles. Questions explore algorithmic complexities, data structures, software design patterns, and debugging methodologies. Candidates are expected to elucidate on sorting algorithms, the significance of Big O notation, and the application of Singleton or Observer patterns in certain scenarios.

Discussions on version control systems, such as Git, underline the importance of collaboration in software projects. Effective responses include examples of past projects or hypothetical situations to demonstrate problem-solving capabilities and practical application of theoretical knowledge.

What programming languages are you most comfortable with, and why?

The programming languages I am most comfortable with are Python, Java, and JavaScript. Python appeals to me for its simplicity and readability, making it ideal for rapid application development and data analysis. Java is my go-to for object-oriented programming, offering robustness and portability across various platforms. JavaScript is indispensable for web development, enabling interactive and dynamic user interfaces. Each language has its unique strengths and use cases, aligning with different aspects of software development.

Can you explain the software development lifecycle (SDLC) and its importance?

The software development lifecycle (SDLC) describes the process used for creating or altering software systems and its importance cannot be overstated. It encompasses stages such as planning, analysis, design, implementation, testing, deployment, and maintenance. These stages ensure that software is developed systematically, meeting quality standards and requirements. The SDLC provides a structured approach, reducing complexity, increasing efficiency, and ensuring that all aspects of development are thoroughly considered and documented. This lifecycle is crucial for managing project scope, cost, and time, facilitating clear communication among project stakeholders.

How do you stay updated with the latest technology and programming trends?

I stay updated with the latest technology and programming trends by subscribing to specialized newsletters and following key influencers in the tech industry. Websites and forums dedicated to software development also serve as valuable resources. Engaging with the programming community through conferences and meetups provides insights into emerging technologies and practices. Regularly practicing coding on platforms that offer contemporary challenges helps in applying new concepts practically.

What is object-oriented programming, and why is it important?

Object-oriented programming (OOP) is a programming paradigm that uses objects and their interactions to design applications and computer programs. It is important because it enhances software modularity and reusability, allowing developers to produce flexible and maintainable code. OOP principles like encapsulation, inheritance, and polymorphism enable the creation of complex systems more efficiently.

Can you describe a challenging project you worked on and how you overcame the challenges?

One challenging project I worked on involved developing a high-volume data processing application. This application needed to efficiently process and analyze terabytes of data in real time, which presented significant performance and scalability challenges.

To overcome these challenges, I first conducted a thorough analysis of the existing system architecture and identified bottlenecks. I then implemented a more efficient data processing pipeline using a combination of in-memory computing and parallel processing techniques. This approach significantly improved the application's performance and scalability.

I then utilized cloud-based services to further enhance the system's ability to handle large volumes of data dynamically. By carefully selecting and integrating these technologies, I was able to meet the project's requirements and deliver a solution that exceeded expectations.

How do you ensure the quality and reliability of your code?

I adhere to a multifaceted approach encompassing coding standards, testing, and continuous integration to ensure the quality and reliability of my code. I follow coding standards and guidelines to maintain consistency and readability across the codebase. I employ various testing methodologies, including unit testing, integration testing, and system testing, to identify and rectify bugs early in the development process. I utilize continuous integration tools to automate testing and deployment, ensuring that the code is always in a deployable state. This comprehensive strategy guarantees that the code is functional as well as robust and maintainable.

What is Agile methodology , and how have you implemented it in past projects?

Agile methodology refers to a project management approach that emphasizes flexibility, collaboration, and customer satisfaction. In past projects, I implemented Agile by organizing work into small, manageable sprints, facilitating daily stand-up meetings to track progress and tackle impediments, and actively involving stakeholders through iterative reviews and feedback cycles. This approach ensured adaptability to changing requirements and enhanced project delivery efficiency.

Can you explain the difference between Git and SVN?

Git is a distributed version control system, meaning every developer's working copy of the code acts as a full-fledged repository with complete history and full version tracking capabilities, independent of network access or a central server. SVN in contrast, is a centralized version control system that maintains version histories in a central server.

In Git, developers work completely offline and then sync their changes with the central repository, while SVN requires a connection to the central repository to commit changes. This fundamental difference affects how teams collaborate, merge changes, and manage their development workflows.

What is continuous integration, and why is it important in software development?

Continuous integration (CI) is a software development practice where developers frequently merge their code changes into a central repository, followed by automated builds and tests. This approach ensures that the codebase remains in a deployable state, facilitating early detection of integration errors and minimizing the time to release new software features. CI plays a crucial role in maintaining code quality, improving project visibility, and enabling a more efficient and agile development process.

How do you approach debugging a complex piece of code?

The first step when approaching the debugging of a complex piece of code, involves understanding the code's functionality and the expected outcome. This includes reviewing the code structure, variables, and algorithms used. By breaking down the code into smaller, manageable sections, isolate the issue more effectively.

Utilizing debug tools and logging mechanisms comes next. These tools allow for real-time monitoring of code execution, helping to pinpoint where discrepancies occur between the expected and actual results.

It is essential to implement a systematic testing strategy. Unit tests verify individual components for correctness, while integration tests ensure that these components work together as expected. Collaboration and consultation with peers provide fresh perspectives and insights. Discussing the problem with colleagues reveals overlooked aspects or alternative solutions. Debugging, therefore, becomes a collaborative effort, leveraging collective knowledge for more efficient problem-solving.

What experience do you have with cloud computing platforms like AWS or Azure?

I have significant experience with cloud computing platforms like AWS and Azure. My expertise includes deploying scalable applications, managing cloud resources, and ensuring data security in the cloud environment. I am proficient in utilizing AWS services such as EC2, S3, and RDS, as well as Azure's VMs, Blob Storage, and SQL Database for various projects. My experience enables me to optimize cloud operations, reduce costs, and improve system reliability.

Can you discuss a time when you had to make a critical decision during a project?

During a project, I had to make a critical decision when our team encountered a significant, unexpected technical hurdle that threatened to delay our delivery timeline. The main issue revolved around a third-party API that suddenly became deprecated, which was crucial for our application's functionality.

To navigate this challenge, I evaluated our options: either to seek an alternative API or to develop an in-house solution. After thorough analysis and discussions with the team, I decided to develop a custom solution tailored to our specific needs, despite the initial time investment it required.

This decision ensured not only the project's progress but also enhanced our control over the application's functionality. The team rallied to implement the solution, and we successfully met our project deadlines without compromising on quality or performance.

How do you prioritize tasks when working on multiple projects?

When working on multiple projects, I prioritize tasks based on their urgency and impact. I employ a task management system to organize tasks by deadlines and importance. Urgent tasks with approaching deadlines or high impact on project outcomes receive immediate attention. This method ensures efficient allocation of time and resources, keeping projects on track and stakeholders satisfied.

What is a RESTful API, and why are they used?

A RESTful API is a set of protocols and standards used for building web services that allow systems to communicate over the internet. It uses HTTP requests to access and manipulate data, leveraging operations such as GET, POST, PUT, and DELETE. RESTful APIs are designed to be stateless, meaning each request from a client to a server must contain all the information needed to understand and complete the request.

They are used to enable applications to communicate with each other, especially in distributed systems. Their simplicity, scalability, and flexibility make them a popular choice for web services and cloud applications, facilitating a wide range of services and functionalities over the web.

How do you manage conflicts within a development team?

Effective communication plays a pivotal role in managing conflicts within a development team. I ensure to understand each team member's perspective and foster an environment where open dialogue is encouraged. Establishing clear goals and responsibilities reduces misunderstandings and promotes unity. I also leverage conflict resolution strategies such as mediation, where necessary, to address issues promptly and maintain team harmony.

What strategies do you use for effective time management?

The strategies I use for effective time management include prioritizing tasks, setting clear goals, and employing productivity tools. Prioritizing tasks allows me to focus on the most critical work first, ensuring significant projects do not get delayed. Setting clear, achievable goals for each day and week helps in maintaining focus and direction. Finally, leveraging productivity tools such as task managers and calendars enhances organization and ensures deadlines are met efficiently.

Can you explain the concept of microservices and their advantages?

Microservices, a software architecture style, consist of small, autonomous services that work together. Each microservice focuses on a specific business function and communicates with other services through well-defined APIs. This architecture enables independent development, deployment, and scaling of each service, leading to increased agility and flexibility in the software development process. Also, microservices enhance fault isolation, making it easier to identify and address issues without impacting the entire system.

What is the significance of design patterns in software engineering?

The significance of design patterns in software engineering lies in their ability to provide standardized solutions to common problems. These patterns serve as blueprints that guide software developers in creating robust and maintainable code. By utilizing design patterns, engineers ensure that their software is scalable and can easily adapt to new requirements. Design patterns facilitate communication among developers, as they use a shared language to describe solutions.

How do you approach learning a new programming language or technology?

Approaching the learning of a new programming language or technology involves a structured strategy to grasp its syntax, libraries, and best practices. Initially, I immerse myself in the official documentation to understand the core concepts and functionalities. Concurrently, I engage in coding exercises or projects that apply these concepts, facilitating hands-on experience. Peer code reviews and participation in developer forums further enrich my understanding, allowing me to adopt industry standards and discover practical solutions to common challenges. This method ensures a comprehensive understanding and practical proficiency in the new technology.

What is your experience with test-driven development (TDD)?

My experience with test-driven development (TDD) encompasses the systematic creation of tests before writing the actual code. In this process, I have routinely crafted unit tests that define and validate the functionality of small pieces of code. This method ensures that each code segment meets its design and behaves as intended. TDD has significantly improved the quality and reliability of my projects by encouraging thoughtful planning and continuous refactoring. It has become a cornerstone of my development workflow, fostering a codebase that is both robust and adaptable.

Behavioral Software Engineer Interview Questions and Answers

Behavioral software engineer interview questions and answers are tailored to assess a candidate's experience in handling real-world challenges, teamwork, and adaptability in a tech environment. These interview questions probe into how applicants have previously navigated project hurdles, collaborated with colleagues, and evolved professionally.

For instance, when asked about overcoming difficult project obstacles, a candidate should describe a specific instance, elucidating the problem, the steps taken to resolve it, and the successful outcome. This showcases problem-solving skills and also demonstrates the ability to learn and grow from challenges, a crucial trait for any software engineer.

Can you describe a situation where you had to work under pressure to meet a deadline?

I remember a project that involved deploying a new software feature critical for a client's campaign launch. The timeline was extremely tight due to unexpected delays in the earlier phases of development.

My role required quick adaptation, prioritizing tasks efficiently, and ensuring seamless communication among the development team. Collaboration tools became indispensable for real-time updates and tracking progress.

The pressure mounted as the deadline approached, but focused effort and strategic task management enabled us to deploy the feature successfully on time. This experience highlighted the importance of agility, clear communication, and a proactive approach in high-pressure environments.

Tell me about a time when you had to deal with a difficult team member. How did you handle it?

A time when I had to deal with a difficult team member involved a scenario where collaboration and communication were becoming increasingly challenging. This individual missed deadlines and was resistant to feedback, which affected our project's progress and team dynamics .

To address this, I initiated a one-on-one meeting to understand their perspective and challenges. I discovered that the root of the issue was a misunderstanding of project goals and a feeling of being overwhelmed by the workload.

By clarifying expectations and reallocating some tasks to balance the workload more effectively, the situation improved. This approach not only enhanced project efficiency but also fostered a more collaborative team environment.

Have you ever made a mistake in your code? How did you discover and rectify it?

Yes, I have made mistakes in my code. I discovered these errors through thorough testing and code reviews. To rectify them, I utilized debugging tools and revised my approach based on feedback. This process enhanced the software's reliability and my coding skills.

Describe a project where you went above and beyond what was required.

I led the development of a complex web application intended to streamline project management processes within our organization. Leveraging advanced programming languages and frameworks, I not only met the initial project specifications but also introduced innovative features such as real-time collaboration tools and predictive task management based on machine learning algorithms. These enhancements significantly improved project efficiency and team productivity, demonstrating my commitment to excellence and my ability to foresee and fulfill future needs.

How do you handle receiving constructive criticism about your work?

I approach constructive criticism about my work with an open mindset and view it as an opportunity for growth and improvement. I listen actively to the feedback, ask clarifying questions to ensure understanding, and reflect on the comments to identify areas for enhancement. I then devise a plan to address the feedback, incorporating it into my future work to improve my performance and outcomes. This process not only helps in personal development but also contributes to the overall success of the team and projects.

Can you give an example of a time when you had to learn a new technology quickly for a project?

In my experience, I had to quickly learn Docker for a project. The task required containerization of an application to streamline development and deployment processes. Docker stood out as the optimal solution due to its efficiency in creating, deploying, and running applications by using containers.

I dedicated a week to intensive study, utilizing official documentation, online tutorials, and community forums. This approach enabled me to grasp Docker's core concepts, commands, and best practices. By the project deadline, I successfully containerized the application, significantly improving its scalability and portability. This experience underscored the importance of adaptability and continuous learning in the tech industry.

Describe a situation where you had to solve a difficult problem. What steps did you take?

In a situation where I had to solve a difficult problem, I encountered a critical bug in a software application that caused data inconsistency across distributed systems.

I thoroughly analyzed the application's logs and the specific conditions under which the bug manifested. This step involved examining code paths, data flow, and system interactions to pinpoint the root cause.

Next, I designed a fix that addressed the root cause by implementing data synchronization checks and correcting the logic flaw that led to the inconsistency. I rigorously tested the solution in a controlled environment before deploying it to production, ensuring the bug was resolved without introducing new issues. This methodical approach restored the application's stability and data integrity.

Tell me about a time when you had to manage multiple tasks simultaneously. How did you prioritize?

In discussing a time when I had to manage multiple tasks simultaneously, prioritization became crucial. I used a project management tool to organize tasks based on their urgency and impact. Critical bug fixes for a software release received top priority, followed by feature development with approaching deadlines. Daily stand-up meetings ensured alignment with team priorities and deadlines. This methodical approach allowed for efficient task management and timely project completion.

Have you ever disagreed with a decision made by your manager or team lead? How did you handle it?

There comes situations when we have to disagree with the decisions made by manager or team lead. In such situations, I first ensure I fully understand the rationale behind their decision by seeking clarification and expressing my concerns through constructive dialogue. I present my perspective supported by data and examples, focusing on the project's objectives and potential impact. If the decision remains unchanged, I respected their authority and align with the team's direction, demonstrating professionalism and commitment to our collective goals.

Describe a project that failed. What happened, and what did you learn from it?

In my experience, a project that failed involved the development of a customer relationship management (CRM) system designed to automate and streamline our sales process. Despite meticulous planning and a robust development framework, the project encountered significant delays due to underestimation of the complexity involved in integrating legacy systems with the new CRM software.

From this experience, I learned the importance of comprehensive system analysis and the need for flexibility in project management to accommodate unexpected challenges. It highlighted the necessity of involving stakeholders from all relevant departments early in the planning phase to gather comprehensive requirements and insights. This failure taught me to adopt a more iterative approach to project management, allowing for regular reassessments and adjustments to the project scope and timeline.

Can you provide an example of how you contributed to improving team performance?

An example of how I contributed to improving team performance involves my role in optimizing our software development process. By implementing a continuous integration and continuous deployment (CI/CD) pipeline, I significantly reduced the time it took for code to move from development to production. This improvement led to faster feature rollouts and bug fixes, enhancing the team's overall efficiency and productivity. My contribution not only streamlined our workflow but also fostered a culture of collaboration, as team members became more engaged in sharing their code and feedback early and often.

Tell me about a time when you had to communicate a technical concept to a non-technical audience.

A time when I had to communicate a technical concept to a non-technical audience involved explaining the importance of data encryption to a group of non-IT staff members in my organization. Data encryption secures information by transforming it into a code that only authorized users access, ensuring privacy and protection against unauthorized access.

I simplified the concept by comparing data encryption to sending a locked, secure package through the mail. Just as only the recipient has the key to open the package, only authorized individuals decrypt and access the information. This analogy helped the non-technical audience grasp the significance of encryption in safeguarding sensitive data.

Describe a situation where you took the initiative to address an issue without being asked.

A situation where I took the initiative to address an issue without being asked involved a performance bottleneck in our web application. During routine monitoring, I noticed that page load times were significantly higher than benchmarks. Recognizing the critical nature of user experience, I investigated the root cause.

I identified that the issue stemmed from inefficient database queries being executed multiple times for a single request. To resolve this, I refactored the queries and implemented caching mechanisms, significantly improving the performance.

By proactively addressing this bottleneck, I enhanced the application's efficiency and user satisfaction without direct instruction, demonstrating my commitment to quality and initiative.

Have you ever had to make a tough decision to ensure a project's success? What was it and why?

Yes, I have faced situations where making a tough decision was crucial to ensure a project's success. In one instance, I decided to refactor a significant portion of the codebase for a key software module. This decision stemmed from the realization that the existing architecture would not scale with the upcoming features we planned to implement.

The decision to refactor was difficult because it required additional resources and time, pushing back our delivery schedule. However, the long-term benefits of a more robust, scalable, and maintainable system justified the initial delays and resource reallocation. This move ultimately led to the project's success, enhancing performance and customer satisfaction.

Tell me about a time when you used your creativity to solve a programming challenge.

A time when I used my creativity to solve a programming challenge was during a project where we faced a significant bottleneck in data processing. The traditional method we employed couldn't handle the increasing volume of data efficiently, leading to delays and performance issues. To address this, I conceptualized an innovative approach by leveraging a less conventional, but more efficient, data structure that optimized retrieval and storage processes. This new method significantly reduced the processing time and improved overall system performance. This experience underscored the importance of thinking outside the box and applying creative solutions to technical problems.

Describe a scenario where you had to adapt to significant changes in a project.

In one of the old projects, the client requested a major pivot from a web-based application to a mobile-first approach mid-development due to shifting market trends. This necessitated a thorough reassessment of our technology stack and architecture. I spearheaded the transition to a mobile-optimized framework, ensuring compatibility with various devices while maintaining the project timeline. Collaboration with the UX team became crucial to redesign the interface for a mobile audience, highlighting the importance of flexibility and rapid response to new requirements in software development projects.

Can you give an example of how you managed a conflict between project requirements and design constraints?

An example of how I managed a conflict between project requirements and design constraints involved a web application project where the client demanded a highly interactive and visually appealing interface, while our existing framework had limitations in supporting such advanced features. I initiated a meeting with both the development team and the client to discuss the challenges and potential solutions.

We explored alternative technologies that could meet the client's needs without compromising the project timeline or budget. By adopting a more flexible front-end framework, we successfully reconciled the project requirements with the design constraints, ensuring client satisfaction and project delivery within the stipulated time frame. This approach fostered collaboration and innovation, turning the conflict into an opportunity for growth.

How do you maintain a work-life balance while meeting tight project deadlines?

Maintaining a work-life balance while meeting tight project deadlines involves strategic planning and effective time management. Prioritize tasks based on their urgency and importance, allocating specific times for work and rest to ensure productivity without burnout.

Utilize tools and methodologies, such as Agile or Kanban, to streamline workflows and monitor progress efficiently. Communication with team members and supervisors about realistic timelines and workload capacity is crucial to setting achievable goals. Incorporating regular breaks and leisure activities into the schedule helps maintain mental and physical well-being, enabling sustained focus and creativity on project tasks.

Tell me about a time when you mentored a junior developer. What approach did you take?

A time I mentored a junior developer involved guiding them through the intricacies of a complex software development project. My approach centered on fostering a supportive learning environment. I initiated regular one-on-one code review sessions to discuss areas for improvement, emphasizing the importance of clean, maintainable code. I provided resources and tasks tailored to their skill level, gradually increasing in complexity as their confidence and abilities grew. Feedback was immediate and constructive, aimed at encouraging a growth mindset. This methodology resulted in the junior developer making significant contributions to the project and accelerating their professional growth.

Describe a situation where you had to gather requirements directly from clients. How did you ensure their needs were met?

In a situation where I had to gather requirements directly from clients, I initiated the process by scheduling a series of stakeholder meetings. During these sessions, I employed active listening and note-taking to accurately capture the client’s needs and expectations.

To ensure their needs were met, I followed up with a requirements document, outlining the discussed functionalities and system behaviors, and sought validation through client feedback. This iterative process guaranteed alignment with the client’s vision before moving into the development phase.

Managerial Software Engineer Interview Questions and Answers

Managerial software engineer interview questions and answers are tailored to assess a candidate's leadership, project management, and team collaboration skills. These interview questions delve into the individual's ability to oversee software development processes, guide team members, and ensure project objectives align with organizational goals. Answers should demonstrate proficiency in delegating tasks, resolving conflicts, and fostering a positive team environment. Candidates must illustrate their capability to make decisive, effective decisions under pressure and to communicate complex technical concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. Mastery in these areas signifies a well-rounded managerial software engineer ready to lead successful projects.

How do you evaluate and manage the performance of your development team?

To evaluate and manage the performance of a development team, one adopts a multifaceted approach involving key performance indicators (KPIs), regular code reviews, and agile methodologies. KPIs specific to software development, such as sprint goals achievement rate, code quality metrics, and bug resolution time, provide quantitative data for assessment.

Regular code reviews ensure adherence to coding standards and facilitate knowledge sharing among team members. Adopting agile methodologies, like Scrum or Kanban, enhances team flexibility and responsiveness to change, fostering continuous improvement and collaboration. These strategies collectively contribute to a comprehensive evaluation and effective management of a development team's performance.

Can you describe your approach to delegating tasks within a software project?

My approach to delegating tasks within a software project involves understanding the project scope, assessing team members' skills, and matching tasks to the most appropriate developers. I prioritize clear communication, setting explicit goals, and deadlines for each task. Effective delegation also requires monitoring progress and providing support, ensuring the project stays on track and meets quality standards.

What strategies do you use to ensure your team meets software delivery deadlines?

I employ several strategies focused on effective project management and team collaboration to ensure my team meets software delivery deadlines.

I prioritize tasks using the Agile methodology, breaking down the project into manageable sprints to ensure continuous progress. This approach allows us to adjust quickly to changes without derailing the project timeline. I advocate for regular stand-up meetings to monitor progress and address bottlenecks promptly. These short, daily check-ins foster transparency and keep everyone aligned on current objectives and deadlines.

I emphasize the importance of clear communication channels within the team. This ensures that any risks or delays are immediately communicated and addressed, preventing last-minute surprises that could impact the delivery schedule.

How do you handle conflicts between team members in a software development project?

In handling conflicts between team members in a software development project, I adopt a proactive and structured approach. I facilitate a meeting to allow all parties to voice their perspectives, ensuring a mutual understanding of the conflict's root causes. Emphasizing collaboration, I guide the team towards a consensus, leveraging conflict resolution techniques tailored to our project's environment. This involves compromise or finding a creative solution that aligns with our project goals. Ultimately, clear communication and a focus on common objectives ensure that conflicts become opportunities for team growth and innovation.

What is your experience with budget management for software projects?

My experience with budget management for software projects encompasses overseeing financial planning, allocation, and tracking of resources. I ensure that projects stay within budget by monitoring expenditures, adjusting forecasts based on project progress, and implementing cost-saving measures when necessary. Effective budget management involves collaboration with project teams and stakeholders to align financial objectives with project milestones.

Can you describe a time when you had to make a tough managerial decision in a software project?

In discussing a time when I had to make a tough managerial decision in a software project, it centered around resource allocation amidst competing project timelines. The scenario involved a critical software development project with a looming deadline and an unexpected request from a high-value client for urgent feature development in another project. Balancing the team's capacity and the projects' importance, the decision entailed reassigning a portion of the development team to focus on the client's urgent request while not jeopardizing the original project's deadline.

This decision required meticulous planning and clear communication. It was crucial to ensure that the reassignment did not negatively impact the morale of the team or the quality of work on either project. The outcome was successful: the team managed to meet both the internal deadline and the client's needs, demonstrating flexibility and efficiency in resource management. This experience underscored the importance of adaptability and strategic planning in software project management.

How do you keep your team motivated during challenging phases of development?

Keeping the team motivated during challenging phases of development involves a blend of clear communication, recognition, and strategic planning. First, ensuring transparent communication about project goals and challenges helps team members understand the context of their work and its impact. Recognizing individual and team achievements, even small ones, fosters a positive atmosphere and encourages further effort. Finally, breaking down larger, more daunting tasks into manageable milestones allows for tangible progress and maintains team momentum. These approaches collectively contribute to sustaining motivation and productivity through difficult development periods.

What methods do you employ to stay informed about new technologies and decide which to implement?

To stay informed about new technologies and determine which to implement, I utilize a variety of methods. I regularly subscribe to and read leading industry publications and tech blogs, ensuring I'm up-to-date with the latest advancements. Additionally, I participate in software development forums and attend webinars, which offer insights into practical applications and peer recommendations. This approach allows me to critically assess and select technologies that align with project requirements and team capabilities, ensuring successful integration and adoption.

How do you approach mentoring and developing junior software engineers?

I approach mentoring and developing junior software engineers by focusing on their continuous learning and professional growth. Guiding them involves providing clear and structured learning paths, emphasizing the importance of mastering fundamentals while gradually introducing them to more complex concepts. Regular one-on-one meetings ensure personalized feedback and goal setting, tailored to their specific career aspirations and skill levels. Encouraging collaboration within the team enhances their problem-solving skills and fosters a supportive community. My ultimate goal is to empower junior engineers to become confident, independent contributors to the team.

What metrics do you consider most important when assessing a project's success?

When assessing a project's success, the metrics I consider most important include code quality, performance efficiency, user satisfaction, and return on investment (ROI). Code quality ensures the software is maintainable and free from defects. Performance efficiency evaluates how well the software utilizes resources under workload. User satisfaction measures the acceptance and usability of the software by the end-users. Finally, ROI determines the financial profitability of the project.

Tailored Scorecard to Avoid Wrong Engineering Hires

Handcrafted Over 6 years of Hiring Tech Talent

// Interview Resources

Want to upskill further through more interview questions and resources? Check out our collection of resources curated just for you.

• Data Science Interview Questions
• UX Research Interview Questions
• Blockchain Interview Questions
• PHP Interview Questions
• .NET Interview Questions
• Business Intelligence Interview Questions
• Product Design Interview Questions
• Azure Interview Questions
• UX Designers Interview Questions
• Java OOPs Interview Questions
• Exception Handling in Java Interview Questions
• Hibernate Interview Questions
• Networking Interview Questions
• NLP Interview Questions
• Software Interview Questions
• Operating System Interview Questions
• Redux Interview Questions
• React Native Interview Questions
• C Interview Questions
• Web Services Interview Questions
• Python Interview Questions
• Salesforce Lightning Interview Questions
• SQL Query Interview Questions
• Spring Boot Interview Questions
• PostgreSQL Interview Questions
• GCP Interview Questions
• Elasticsearch Interview Questions
• Azure Data Factory Interview Questions
• Data Structures Interview Questions
• Embedded C Interview Questions
• Swift Interview Questions
• Java Persistence API Interview Questions
• HTML Interview Questions
• OOPs Interview Questions
• Multithreading Interview Questions
• Django Interview Questions
• C++ Interview Questions
• Laravel Interview Questions
• C# Interview Questions
• Java Interview Questions
• ExpressJS Interview Questions
• AWS Lambda Interview Questions
• Java 8 Interview Questions
• DBMS Interview Questions
• Graphic Design Interview Questions
• Jquery Interview Questions
• NoSQL Interview Questions
• Power BI Interview Questions
• Selenium Interview Questions
• Git Interview Questions
• Array Interview Questions
• Java String Interview Questions
• Angular Interview Questions
• Microservices Interview Questions
• Automation Testing Interview Questions
• REST API Interview Questions
• Mobile Interview Questions
• PL SQL Interview Questions
• Flutter Interview Questions
• Linux Interview Questions
• Pandas Interview Questions
• Ruby on Rails Interview Questions
• Algorithm Interview Questions
• WordPress Interview Questions
• DevOps Interview Questions
• MySQL Interview Questions
• Vue.js Interview Questions
• Spring Security Interview Questions
• Jira Interview Questions
• Backend Interview Questions
• Fullstack Interview Questions
• CSS Interview Questions
• Kafka Interview Questions
• SQL Interview Questions
• Kubernetes Interview Questions
• PySpark Interview Questions
• React Interview Questions
• Node Interview Questions
• JavaScript Interview Questions
• Salesforce Admin Interview Questions
• GraphQL Interview Questions
• Docker Interview Questions
• TypeScript Interview Questions
• MongoDB Interview Questions
• Web API Interview Questions
• ETL Interview Questions
• iOS Interview Questions
• Kotlin Interview Questions
• ASP.NET Interview Questions
• Frontend Interview Questions
• Spring Interview Questions
• AWS Interview Questions
• Go Interview Questions
• Android Interview Questions
• Contact Details
• 2093, Philadelphia Pike, DE 19703, Claymont
• [email protected]
• Explore jobs
• We are Hiring!
• Write for us
• 2093, Philadelphia Pike DE 19703, Claymont

Copyright @ 2024 Flexiple Inc

Top 25 NVIDIA Software Engineer Interview Questions & Answers

Get ready for your Software Engineer interview at NVIDIA with a list of common questions you may encounter and how to prepare for them effectively.

In the competitive world of tech, landing an interview with a top industry player like NVIDIA is no small feat. As a software engineer, you bring a unique blend of creativity and technical prowess to the table, capable of turning lines of code into powerful solutions that drive innovation forward. Now, it’s time to prepare for the questions that will help NVIDIA understand just how valuable your skills are.

This article aims to guide you through some potential interview scenarios for a Software Engineer position at NVIDIA. We’ll delve into common interview questions, offering insights into what the interviewer might be looking for, along with sample answers to help you craft your own compelling responses. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a recent graduate, this guide can serve as a helpful tool in your preparation process.

Common NVIDIA Software Engineer Interview Questions

1. how would your previous experience contribute to the development of deep learning software at nvidia.

The crux of this question is to gauge your ability to apply your past experiences and skills to the specific work NVIDIA does. They want to know how well you can adapt your knowledge to the unique challenges and opportunities that the development of deep learning software presents. NVIDIA, being a leader in this field, needs professionals who can bring fresh insights, innovative solutions, and a proven track record to their team.

Example: “In my previous experience, I’ve worked extensively with machine learning algorithms and neural networks. This has given me a deep understanding of their underlying principles and how to optimize them.

I have also developed software using programming languages like Python and C++, which are often used in deep learning projects. My ability to write efficient code can contribute to the speed and performance of NVIDIA’s deep learning software.

Moreover, I’ve handled large datasets, honed skills in data preprocessing and model training. These experiences would be valuable in developing robust deep learning systems at NVIDIA.

Furthermore, working on collaborative projects has equipped me with strong teamwork and communication skills. These will aid in effectively collaborating with different teams within NVIDIA to develop top-notch deep learning solutions.”

2. Can you describe a time when you had to optimize graphics processing units (GPUs) for improved performance?

The heart of NVIDIA’s business revolves around graphics processing units (GPUs). As a software engineer, you will be expected to understand how to optimize these units for better performance. It’s not just about knowing the theory, but having practical experience. This question is designed to assess your hands-on experience with GPU optimization, and your ability to solve real-world performance challenges, which is critical to the success of NVIDIA’s products and services.

Example: “In a recent project, I was tasked with optimizing GPU performance for a real-time 3D rendering application. The initial frame rate was sub-optimal, causing lags in the user experience.

I began by profiling the application to identify bottlenecks. This revealed that texture loading was consuming significant resources.

To resolve this, I implemented asynchronous texture loading which significantly reduced the load on the GPU and increased the frame rate.

Next, I optimized shader programs by reducing instruction count and ensuring efficient memory access patterns. This further improved the performance.

Through these changes, we achieved a smoother user interface with higher frame rates, enhancing the overall user experience.”

3. What strategies would you use to debug and fix issues in CUDA programming language?

NVIDIA, as a pioneering tech company, is eager to hire software engineers who have a strong capacity to independently troubleshoot and resolve programming issues. CUDA, being a parallel computing platform and application programming interface model created by NVIDIA, is a key part of their operations. By asking this question, the hiring team is gauging your problem-solving skills in a specific, relevant context, as well as your understanding of their proprietary technology.

Example: “Debugging CUDA programs requires a multi-pronged approach.

I would start by using the NVIDIA Nsight tools to debug and profile my code. This tool provides an integrated debugging environment that allows me to step through CUDA kernels, inspect variables, and evaluate expressions.

Next, I’d use printf statements within CUDA kernels for quick checks. Although it’s not as sophisticated as other methods, it can be effective in identifying issues.

For memory-related bugs, I’d leverage cuda-memcheck. It detects out of bounds and misaligned memory access errors which are common in CUDA programming.

Lastly, understanding the architecture of the GPU is crucial. By knowing how threads are scheduled and executed on the hardware, we can better understand potential synchronization or performance issues.”

4. Explain how you have used TensorRT in improving the efficiency of neural network models.

The question hones in on your practical experience with specific tools, in this case, TensorRT, an NVIDIA high-performance deep learning inference optimizer. It’s about gauging your understanding of neural network optimization and your ability to apply this knowledge in real-world scenarios. It also allows them to assess how well you can leverage NVIDIA’s TensorRT in enhancing the company’s software solutions.

Example: “In my experience, TensorRT plays a crucial role in optimizing neural network models. I have used it to optimize models after training, which significantly boosts inference performance.

For instance, I utilized its layer fusion capability to merge convolution, bias, and ReLU operations into a single kernel. This reduced memory access latency and increased throughput.

Moreover, TensorRT’s precision calibration was instrumental in implementing lower-precision (FP16 and INT8) computations. It preserved model accuracy while reducing computational requirements.

The dynamic shapes feature also allowed me to use variable batch sizes, providing flexibility for different deployment scenarios. Overall, using TensorRT led to more efficient and faster-performing models.”

5. Describe an instance where you had to collaborate with hardware engineers to improve software-hardware integration.

The reality of a software engineer’s role, especially in a company that produces hardware products, often involves interfacing with hardware engineers. The goal is to ensure that the software and hardware components work harmoniously. By asking this question, recruiters are trying to gauge your collaborative skills, your understanding of hardware-software integration, and your ability to navigate the challenges that come with working cross-functionally.

Example: “In a previous project, we were developing an IoT device with specific power consumption constraints. The initial software design was draining the battery quickly.

I collaborated closely with hardware engineers to understand the power usage of different components. It became clear that our Wi-Fi module was consuming more power due to frequent data transmission.

We redesigned the software to batch and send data at regular intervals rather than in real-time. This significantly reduced power consumption and improved battery life. This experience highlighted the importance of cross-functional collaboration for optimal system performance.”

6. Could you provide an example of when you utilized machine learning algorithms in real-world applications?

When posing this question, NVIDIA is seeking to understand your practical experience with machine learning algorithms. It’s not just about theoretical knowledge; they want to know how you’ve applied that knowledge to solve real-world problems. This gives them insight into your problem-solving skills, adaptability, and how your expertise could potentially be a valuable addition to their team. Your answer could also reveal your creativity and innovation, traits that are highly valued in tech-oriented companies such as NVIDIA.

Example: “In a recent project, I utilized the Random Forest algorithm to predict customer churn for a telecom company. The model was trained on historical data including customer demographics and usage patterns.

The algorithm’s ability to handle both categorical and numerical data made it an excellent choice. It also provided feature importance rankings which gave valuable business insights about key factors driving churn.

Post deployment, the model significantly improved prediction accuracy, enabling targeted customer retention strategies. This real-world application of machine learning resulted in reduced churn rate and increased profitability for the client.”

7. How do you ensure that the code you write is efficient and scalable, given NVIDIA’s focus on high-performance computing?

The heart of NVIDIA’s business lies in high-performance computing, and as a software engineer working with them, you’ll be expected to contribute to this core mission. Efficiency and scalability are essential qualities of code that can deliver high-performance results. Thus, hiring managers want to be sure that you not only understand these principles but also consistently apply them in your work. The question aims to assess your technical prowess, strategic thinking, and commitment to quality, all critical traits for a software engineer in a company that’s leading the way in high-performance computing.

Example: “To ensure code efficiency and scalability, I adhere to several practices.

I begin by understanding the problem thoroughly before writing any code which helps me design a robust algorithm.

Next, I focus on clean coding practices like meaningful variable names, modularization, and commenting for better readability and maintainability.

Performance profiling is another key practice I follow. It allows me to identify bottlenecks in my code and optimize them accordingly.

Lastly, I write unit tests and integration tests to validate the functionality of the code, making it more reliable and easy to scale.

In terms of NVIDIA’s emphasis on high-performance computing, I would leverage parallel programming techniques and GPU acceleration wherever possible.”

8. What techniques would you implement to enhance ray tracing in video games?

This question serves to gauge your understanding of one of the cutting-edge technologies in video game graphics. Ray tracing, while delivering stunning visual results, is notoriously demanding on hardware. Your innovative approach to enhancing or optimizing this technique demonstrates your ability to think critically and solve complex problems – an essential skill in NVIDIA’s dynamic, tech-driven environment.

Example: “To enhance ray tracing in video games, I would focus on optimizing the algorithms used for intersection tests and bounding volume hierarchies (BVH). This could involve implementing faster data structures or refining existing ones.

Parallel computing techniques can also be utilized to distribute computations across multiple cores or GPUs, enhancing real-time rendering performance.

Moreover, adaptive sampling, where rays are traced more densely in complex areas of a scene, can improve visual quality without significantly increasing computational load.

Lastly, leveraging machine learning methods like denoising algorithms can help produce high-quality images with fewer rays per pixel, thus improving efficiency.”

9. Can you share your experiences working with parallel computing architectures?

This question plays a pivotal role in understanding your hands-on experience and technical prowess, considering NVIDIA’s significant involvement in the design of GPUs for the gaming market and the system on a chip units for the mobile computing and automotive market. The question is designed to assess your knowledge and experience in parallel computing, a field where NVIDIA has extensive interest and investments. Your experiences could contribute to pushing the boundaries of technology in these areas.

Example: “I have worked extensively with parallel computing architectures, particularly in the context of high-performance computing. My experience includes optimizing algorithms for multi-core and multi-threaded systems.

One project involved developing a simulation software where I implemented parallel processing to significantly reduce computation time. This included partitioning data across multiple cores and synchronizing threads to ensure consistency.

At another instance, I utilized GPU-based parallel computing for image processing tasks. By leveraging CUDA programming model, I was able to achieve substantial performance improvements.

These experiences helped me understand the nuances of memory management, thread synchronization, and workload distribution in parallel environments. It also taught me that effective use of these architectures is not just about coding but also involves strategic planning and design.”

10. If asked to reduce latency in virtual reality displays, what approach would you take?

This question is designed to test your problem-solving skills and your knowledge of the specific challenges that come with developing virtual reality technology. NVIDIA, as a leader in this field, needs to ensure that its engineers can tackle these challenges with innovative and effective solutions. Latency in virtual reality displays can cause a range of problems, including motion sickness in users, so reducing it is a key goal for any software engineer in this area.

Example: “Reducing latency in virtual reality displays can be approached from both hardware and software perspectives.

On the hardware side, using high-performance GPUs like those offered by NVIDIA can help render graphics faster. Additionally, optimizing network infrastructure to ensure fast data transmission is crucial.

From a software perspective, we can leverage techniques such as asynchronous time warp (ATW) and predictive tracking. ATW helps smooth out images when there are delays in rendering or transmitting them, while predictive tracking anticipates user movements to reduce perceived lag.

Furthermore, efficient coding practices and algorithms can also play a significant role in minimizing latency.”

11. How would you apply your understanding of artificial intelligence to develop autonomous vehicle systems?

Understanding the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in the development of autonomous vehicle systems is critical, particularly for a company that’s a leader in AI and autonomous vehicle technology. By posing this question, hiring managers are assessing your ability to innovate and apply AI concepts in real-world scenarios, such as autonomous driving, which is a key area of focus for NVIDIA. They want to ensure you can contribute to their mission of revolutionizing transportation.

Example: “In developing autonomous vehicle systems, I would leverage AI in perception, decision-making and control. For perception, deep learning can be used to interpret sensor data for object detection and recognition. Decision-making involves path planning algorithms which use reinforcement learning to make safe and efficient decisions. Control is about executing these decisions accurately, where model predictive control could be useful.

Moreover, ensuring safety of the system is crucial. This can be achieved by incorporating redundancy and fail-safe mechanisms, and rigorous testing using simulation environments. Lastly, it’s important to continuously update and improve the system post-deployment through over-the-air updates based on real-world feedback.”

12. Discuss any contributions you’ve made to open-source projects related to GPU computing.

The essence of this question lies in understanding your passion and commitment to the field. By examining your contributions to open-source projects, the hiring team can assess your initiative, practical knowledge, and ability to collaborate with diverse teams. It also shows whether you can apply GPU computing outside your regular work or study environment, indicating how you might contribute to NVIDIA’s innovative culture.

Example: “I’ve contributed to PyTorch, an open-source machine learning library for Python. I optimized its GPU performance by implementing CUDA kernels and optimizing existing ones. This significantly improved the speed of several operations.

In another project, TensorFlow, I helped fix bugs related to GPU memory management. This led to more efficient utilization of GPU resources during model training sessions.

Moreover, I also developed a plugin for GIMP, an open-source graphics editor, that uses GPU acceleration to apply filters and effects in real-time. It was well-received by the community due to its performance improvements.”

13. Considering NVIDIA’s involvement in data center technology, how can you contribute to this specific area as a Software Engineer?

The interviewer wants to gauge your understanding of NVIDIA’s data center technology and assess how your skills as a Software Engineer can contribute to this specific area. They are interested in understanding your knowledge about the company’s products and services, and how you can apply your technical skills to enhance and innovate within that realm.

Example: “As a software engineer, I can contribute to NVIDIA’s data center technology by developing efficient and scalable software solutions. My expertise in programming languages such as Python and Java, coupled with my knowledge of cloud computing platforms like AWS, will enable me to design robust systems for managing workloads in data centers.

I also have experience working with containerization technologies like Docker and Kubernetes which are crucial for deploying and scaling applications in a data center environment.

Moreover, my understanding of machine learning algorithms can be beneficial in optimizing the performance of GPUs within the data centers. By applying these skills, I aim to enhance the reliability and efficiency of NVIDIA’s data center operations.”

14. How would you leverage your knowledge of computer vision to improve our AI platforms?

NVIDIA, as a global technology company, is known for its innovations in AI and graphics processing units (GPUs). As such, it’s vital for the firm to recruit software engineers who can push the boundaries of what’s possible in these areas. By asking you about applying your knowledge of computer vision to their AI platforms, they’re looking to gauge how well you can integrate your skills with their technology to drive innovation and enhance the performance and capabilities of their AI systems.

Example: “Leveraging my knowledge of computer vision, I would focus on enhancing the existing AI platforms by improving object detection and image recognition capabilities. This could be achieved through advanced algorithms and deep learning models.

For instance, convolutional neural networks (CNNs) can be utilized for better feature extraction in images. Also, implementing real-time processing techniques can improve efficiency and speed of the system.

Furthermore, ensuring robustness against varying lighting conditions or orientations is crucial. Techniques like data augmentation can help achieve this.

Lastly, to make the platform more user-friendly, I’d work on developing a more intuitive interface that allows users to easily interact with the AI system.”

15. How have you ensured the security and privacy of user data in your past projects?

This question is critical because it highlights your understanding and implementation of data privacy and security measures, a core responsibility for any software engineer. In today’s digital age, with cyber threats becoming more sophisticated, NVIDIA wants to ensure their user data is in safe hands. They are looking for candidates who prioritize data privacy and can demonstrate their expertise in creating secure software systems.

Example: “In my past projects, I prioritized data security and privacy by implementing robust encryption methods for data at rest and in transit. I also used secure coding practices to prevent vulnerabilities like SQL injection and cross-site scripting.

To ensure user privacy, I incorporated features that allow users to control their data, such as consent forms and easy-to-use settings for managing personal information.

Regular audits were conducted to identify any potential security gaps, and we maintained a strict policy of least privilege access to minimize exposure of sensitive data. All these measures helped us maintain high standards of data security and privacy.”

16. What steps would you take to resolve memory bandwidth constraints in GPUs?

This question is designed to assess your problem-solving skills and technical knowledge. As a software engineer, particularly in a company known for its GPU technology like NVIDIA, you’ll be expected to handle complex issues related to hardware constraints. Demonstrating your ability to identify, analyze, and resolve memory bandwidth constraints in GPUs will show that you’re capable of contributing to the company’s mission of pushing the boundaries in technology.

Example: “Resolving memory bandwidth constraints in GPUs involves a few key steps.

Optimizing data transfer between the CPU and GPU is crucial, which can be done by batching data transfers or using pinned memory for asynchronous transfers.

Next, we should ensure efficient use of shared memory to reduce latency. This includes optimizing access patterns to avoid bank conflicts and utilizing L1 cache effectively.

Lastly, it’s important to leverage techniques like texture memory and constant memory for specific scenarios where they provide advantages over global memory. These strategies can help mitigate the impact of memory bandwidth limitations on GPU performance.”

17. Can you discuss your experience in developing software for 3D graphics or gaming?

The heartbeat of NVIDIA’s success lies in its groundbreaking work in graphics processing units (GPUs), which are heavily utilized in the gaming industry. Knowing your experience in developing software for 3D graphics or gaming gives the interviewers insight into your understanding of the complexity and nuances of the field. It also helps them assess whether your skills align with the company’s core business and vision.

Example: “I’ve spent the past five years working on 3D graphics software development. During this time, I have gained extensive experience in utilizing APIs like OpenGL and DirectX for rendering purposes.

I was part of a team that developed a successful game where I primarily focused on optimizing the performance of our 3D engine. We achieved smoother frame rates even on lower-end hardware which significantly broadened our user base.

My expertise also extends to shader programming, allowing me to create custom visual effects. I’m comfortable with both high-level shading languages and GPU assembly when necessary.

In terms of gaming, my experience is not just technical but also creative. Understanding game mechanics and player interaction has been crucial in developing software that meets the needs of end-users. This holistic approach allows me to contribute effectively to any stage of the game development process.”

18. Share an instance where you had to adapt quickly to new programming languages or tools.

NVIDIA, being a global technology powerhouse, operates in an industry that evolves rapidly. As a software engineer, your ability to swiftly adapt to new programming languages or tools is crucial to the company’s ability to stay competitive and innovate. The question is designed to gauge your flexibility, learning agility, and problem-solving skills in the face of change.

Example: “In a recent project, I was required to learn Node.js within a week. Despite having no prior experience with it, I dedicated my time to understand its fundamentals and syntax.

I utilized online resources like Stack Overflow and Mozilla Developer Network for any issues encountered. By the end of the week, I had not only learned the basics but also successfully implemented a REST API using Express.js on top of Node.js.

This experience taught me how to quickly adapt to new programming languages or tools when needed. It’s all about dedicating yourself to learning and problem-solving.”

19. In what ways have you previously optimized software for multi-core processors?

The essence of this question lies in the nature of NVIDIA’s products and business. As a world-leading technology company, NVIDIA not only designs but also optimizes software for multi-core processors. This means that any potential software engineer needs to have a solid grasp of how to enhance software performance across multiple cores. By asking this question, the interviewer seeks to determine how you have used your skills in the past to optimize software for multi-core processors, which is a critical aspect of the job role.

Example: “In my experience, optimizing software for multi-core processors involves careful task partitioning and synchronization. I’ve utilized parallel programming models like OpenMP and MPI to distribute computations across multiple cores effectively.

I also leveraged thread-level parallelism within a core using SIMD instructions. This involved re-factoring code to ensure data locality and minimize cache misses.

Moreover, I used profiling tools to identify bottlenecks in the code and applied optimization techniques accordingly. These included loop unrolling, function inlining, and reducing lock contention in multithreaded applications.

Understanding hardware architecture was crucial too, as it allowed me to optimize memory access patterns and exploit prefetching mechanisms.”

20. Can you describe your process for testing and validating software before deployment?

NVIDIA, a global technology company known for its high-performance graphics processing units, is keen on delivering flawless products to its customers. As a software engineer, your ability to thoroughly test and validate software before deployment is essential to maintain the company’s reputation for quality and reliability. This question aims to gauge your understanding of software testing methodologies, your attention to detail, and your commitment to delivering top-notch, error-free software.

Example: “My process for testing and validating software starts with understanding the requirements and functionality of the application. I then create a robust test plan that includes unit, integration, system, and user acceptance tests.

Unit tests ensure individual components work independently while integration tests verify interaction between different parts. System tests check if the overall software meets specified requirements and User Acceptance Tests (UAT) confirm the software works for the end-user.

I also use automated testing tools to increase efficiency and accuracy. Post-testing, I document results and fix detected bugs. Before deployment, I conduct regression testing to ensure previous functionalities remain unaffected by new changes.

This comprehensive approach ensures reliable software delivery, minimizing post-deployment issues.”

21. How would you handle conflicting priorities or tight deadlines while developing complex software solutions?

The essence of a software engineering role, especially in a high-performance company such as NVIDIA, involves juggling multiple tasks, often under the pressure of tight deadlines. The probing question about handling conflicting priorities is intended to assess your ability to prioritize, manage your time effectively, and maintain a level-headed approach under stress. It also helps them evaluate your problem-solving skills and how well you can adapt in a dynamic environment.

Example: “In handling conflicting priorities or tight deadlines, I believe in the power of effective planning and communication.

I would prioritize tasks based on their urgency and importance, using a tool like Jira to manage and track progress. For complex projects, breaking them down into manageable parts can help ensure steady progress.

Communication is also key. Regularly updating stakeholders on project status helps manage expectations and facilitates early intervention if issues arise.

Moreover, leveraging Agile methodologies allows for flexibility and adaptability, ensuring we deliver high-quality software solutions even under pressure.”

22. How familiar are you with developing software for cloud-based platforms?

Cloud computing is a significant part of NVIDIA’s business, given the company’s investments in technologies such as AI, deep learning, and autonomous vehicles, all of which require substantial cloud-based resources. Therefore, understanding a candidate’s experience with cloud-based software development is essential. This question helps assess your ability to contribute to projects that require cloud-based solutions and your readiness to work on such technologies.

Example: “I have extensive experience with cloud-based software development, particularly in AWS and Azure. I’ve worked on designing scalable systems, implementing serverless architectures, and setting up CI/CD pipelines.

My expertise includes containerization technologies like Docker and Kubernetes, which are essential for efficient cloud deployment.

In terms of programming languages, I’m proficient in Python and Java, commonly used for backend development in a cloud environment.

Understanding the principles of security in the cloud is also crucial, so I’ve gained knowledge in IAM, encryption, and network configurations to ensure secure applications.”

23. Can you explain a situation where your innovative thinking led to a breakthrough in software development?

Innovation is the heart of any software engineering role, and this question seeks to understand your ability to leverage creative thinking to solve complex problems. NVIDIA, being a leader in the tech industry, values innovative and out-of-the-box thinking in order to stay ahead of the curve. By asking about your past experiences with innovative problem solving, they are trying to gauge if you have the potential to bring fresh perspectives and inventive solutions to their team.

Example: “At my previous company, we faced a challenge with our application’s response time due to inefficient database queries. I proposed an innovative solution of using Elasticsearch for faster data retrieval.

I led the team in implementing this change and optimizing our search capabilities. As a result, we reduced the application’s response time by 60%. This significantly improved user experience and customer satisfaction.

This experience taught me that innovation often comes from addressing real-time challenges head-on and thinking outside traditional methods.”

24. How would you ensure the best performance of our machine learning applications on NVIDIA GPUs?

Understanding how to optimize machine learning applications for specific hardware, such as NVIDIA GPUs, is a critical part of a software engineer’s role. Employers need to know that you can identify and solve issues that may arise during the development and deployment of these applications. Further, this question reflects your ability to interpret complex software insights and apply them effectively to deliver high-performance solutions, which ultimately contributes to the company’s competitive advantage.

Example: “Optimizing machine learning applications on NVIDIA GPUs involves several strategies.

One approach is to use libraries like cuDNN and TensorRT, which are specifically designed for GPU acceleration of deep learning tasks.

Another important aspect is the efficient utilization of memory bandwidth. This can be achieved by using techniques such as tiling and shared memory.

Profiling tools like Nsight and NVProf can help identify bottlenecks in the code and guide optimization efforts.

Lastly, staying updated with the latest CUDA versions and features will allow us to leverage new optimizations and improvements provided by NVIDIA.”

25. What is your approach towards maintaining code quality and consistency across large-scale projects?

When working on large-scale projects, it’s critical to maintain a high standard of code quality and consistency. This ensures the project remains stable, functional, and manageable. NVIDIA, as a leading tech company, needs software engineers who understand this importance and have strategies in place to achieve it. The question helps to assess your understanding of best coding practices, testing procedures, and your ability to work in a team where shared codebase is common.

Example: “Maintaining code quality and consistency in large-scale projects involves a multi-faceted approach.

A key strategy is implementing coding standards and guidelines that every team member adheres to. This ensures uniformity across the project, making it easier for anyone to understand and work on any part of the codebase.

Utilizing automated tools like static code analyzers and linters can help identify potential issues early, reducing bugs and improving overall code quality.

Code reviews are another essential aspect. They not only catch mistakes but also promote knowledge sharing among the team.

Lastly, I believe in continuous refactoring. As the project evolves, so should its codebase. Regularly revisiting and refining our code helps maintain its quality over time.”

Top 25 Western Dental Services Interview Questions & Answers

Top 25 synopsys r&d engineer interview questions & answers, you may also be interested in..., top 25 american family insurance interview questions & answers, top 25 csc interview questions & answers, top 20 kleinfelder interview questions & answers, top 20 university of utah hospitals & clinics interview questions & answers.

• Courses Get 90% Refund!

Problem Of The Day

Geek nomenclature.

Instructions

• The questions will be featured from a pool of public problems from the GFG Practice Portal.
• If you are a frequent user of our Practice Portal, you may have already solved the featured Problem of the Day in the past. In that case you must submit your solution again to maintain the streak and earn a Geek Bit.
• Only the questions given by us each day will be considered valid for earning Geek Bits. Any record of your previous submissions or number of questions answered in the past will not be considered.
• The questions will range across varying difficulties and DSA topics.
• You can solve the questions in C++, Java, Python.
• Each submission will be tested on our critical test data. Only a fully submitted solution will be considered for a Geek Bit.
• Each question has hints that you may use when you are stuck on a problem. Marks are deducted on hints usage but your submission will still be considered for a Geek Bit.
• You will not earn any GeekBit if you view the full solution or editorial before submitting the answer. This will also break your POTD streak.
• The 24 hours allotted to complete the problem will be according to Indian Standard Time and start at midnight each day.

Share on Social Media

Geekbits T&C*

• Geekbits constitute the virtual currency awarded to users upon successfully solving the Problem of the Day (POTD) questions on the website.
• It is explicitly stated that Geekbits hold no real-world value and cannot be exchanged for any monetary currency, including but not limited to INR, USD, or any other real-time currency.
• Geekbits are purely a virtual reward system for user engagement on the platform.

• Quantitiative Aptitude

Logical Reasoning

Verbal ability.

• Aptitude Quiz
• Quantitiative Aptitude Quiz
• Verbal Ability Quiz
• Aptitude For Placements
• Interview Corner
• Practice Sets

Aptitude Questions and Answers

Quantitative aptitude.

• What are Numbers?
• Problems on H.C.F and L.C.M - Aptitude Questions
• Pipes and Cistern - Aptitude Questions and Answers
• Speed, Time and Distance – Formulas & Aptitude Questions
• Boats and Streams - Aptitude Questions and Answers
• Percentages - Aptitude Questions and Answers
• Ratio and Proportion - Aptitude Questions and Answers
• Alligation or Mixture - Aptitude Questions and Answers
• Algebra | Set -1
• Problems on Ages - Aptitude Questions and Answers
• Profit and Loss - Aptitude Questions and Answers
• Simple Interest - Aptitude Questions and Answers
• Compound Interest - Aptitude Questions and Answers
• Mensuration 2D Formula & Aptitude Questions
• Mensuration 3D Formulas and Aptitude Questions
• Height and Distances - Aptitude Questions and Answers
• Progression - Aptitude Questions and Answers
• Logarithm: Aptitude Question and Answers
• Permutation and Combination - Aptitude Questions and Answers
• Probability - Aptitude Questions and Answers
• Geometry and Co-ordinates
• Clock - Aptitude Questions and Answers
• Calendar - Aptitude Questions and Answers
• Coding Decoding Question and Answers
• Races and Games - Aptitude Questions and Answers
• Simplification - Aptitude Questions and Answers
• Approximation - Aptitude Question and Answers
• Data Interpretation - Aptitude Question and Answers
• Number Series Reasoning Questions and Answers
• Alphanumeric Series Reasoning Questions and Answers
• Analogy Reasoning Questions and Answers
• Making Judgements: Reasoning Questions
• Course of Action: Logical Reasoning Questions
• Statement and Conclusion Logical Reasoning
• Cause and Effect: Logical Reasoning Questions and Answers
• Statement and Argument-Analytical Reasoning
• Reasoning Tricks to Solve Coding -Decoding and Calendar Problems
• Statement and Assumption in Logical Reasoning
• Venn Diagram

Logical Reasoning: Verbal Reasoning

• Verbal Reasoning: Logical Arrangement Of Words
• Placement | Reasoning | Blood Relationship
• Syllogism: Verbal Reasoning Questions and Answers
• Cubes: Verbal Reasoning Questions and Answers
• Seating Arrangement : Aptitude Questions and Answers
• Direction Sense test
• Data Sufficiency in Logical Reasoning

Logical Reasoning: Non-Verbal Reasoning

• Mirror Image: Verbal Reasoning
• Spotting Errors: Verbal Ability Questions and Answers
• Synonyms and Antonyms List in English Grammar
• Spellings: Verbal Ability Questions and Answers
• Rules to Solve Sentence Correction
• Sentence Improvement: Verbal Ability Questions and Answers
• Sentence Completion: Verbal Ability Questions and Answers
• Ordering Of Sentences: Verbal Ability Questions
• Reading Comprehension Questions & Answers
• List of 200+One Word Substitution With Examples: Download PDF
• Idioms and Phrases Questions and Answers
• Active and Passive Voice Rules for Competitive Exams
• Rules for Direct and Indirect Speech for Competitive Exams
• Definite and Indefinite Articles ( A, An, The)
• Preposition
• Adjective - Definition, List, Types, Uses and Examples
• Data Interpretation
• 15 Most Important Aptitude Topics For Placements [2023]
• How to Prepare for Aptitude Test for Campus Placements in 2024
• General Aptitude
• Online Aptitude Test: For Jobs, Placements, and More

Aptitude questions can be challenging, but with the right preparation and practice, you can tackle them with ease. Our comprehensive guide to aptitude questions and answers covers all the essential topics of Aptitude, including Quantitative Aptitude , Logical Reasoning , and Verbal Ability . Whether you’re a student preparing for an examination or looking for a job to improve your problem-solving skills. With our step-by-step guide and sample questions, you will gain the confidence to tackle aptitude questions in interviews and competitive exams with ease.

Aptitude: Quantitative Aptitude Topics

Quantitative aptitude covers a wide range of topics and questions including:-

• Numbers [ Practice ]
• LCM and HCF [Practice LCM & HCF ]
• Work and Wages [ Practice ]
• Pipes and Cisterns [ Practice ]
• Time Speed Distance [ Practice ]
• Trains, Boats, and Streams [ Practice ]
• Percentage [ Practice ]
• Ratio, Proportion, and Partnership [ Practice ]
• Mixture and Alligation [ Practice ]
• Algebra [ Practice ]
• Average [ Practice ]
• Age [ Practice ]
• Profit and Loss [ Practice ]
• Simple Interest [ Practice ]
• Compound Interest [ Practice ]
• Mensuration 2D [ Practice ]
• Mensuration 3D [ Practice ]
• Trigonometry & Height and Distances [ Practice ]
• Progressions [ Practice ]
• Logarithms [ Practice ]
• Permutation and Combination [ Practice ]
• Probability [ Practice ]
• Geometry [ Practice ]
• Clocks [ Practice ]
• Calendars [ Practice ]
• Coding-Decoding [ Practice ]
• Race [ Practice ]
• Simplification and Approximation [ Practice ]
• Data Interpretation [ Practice ]

Aptitude: Logical Reasoning Topics

Logical Reasoning covers a wide range of topics and questions including:-

• Number Series
• Letter and Symbol Series
• Verbal Classification
• Essential Part
• Artificial Language
• Matching Definitions
• Making Judgments
• Logical Problems
• Logical Games
• Analyzing Arguments
• Course of Action
• Statement and Conclusion
• Theme Detection
• Cause and Effect
• Statement and Argument
• Logical Deduction
• Letter Series
• Verification of the Truth of the Statement
• Coding Decoding
• Assertion and Reason
• Statement and Assumptions
• Logical Venn Diagram

Aptitude: Verbal Ability Topics

Verbal Ability covers a wide range of topics and questions including:-

• Spotting Errors
• Selecting Words
• Sentence Formation
• Ordering of Words
• Sentence Correction
• Sentence Improvement
• Completing Statements
• Ordering of Sentences
• Paragraph Formation
• Closet Test
• Comprehension
• One Word Substitutes
• Idioms and Phrases
• Change of Voice
• Change of Speech
• Verbal Analogies

FAQs on Aptitude

Q1: what is aptitude.

The natural ability or potential of a person to learn or perform a specific task or skill is referred to as aptitude. It is often used to describe a person’s inherent talent or capacity in a particular area, such as language, or music.

Q2: How can I improve my aptitude skills?

There are several ways to improve your aptitude skills, including practicing with sample questions and tests, seeking feedback and guidance from experts or mentors.

Q3: What are aptitude tests used for? 

Answer : 

Aptitude tests are used to assess a person’s potential in a particular field or to help identify areas in which a person may excel. They are often used in academic settings, such as college admissions or scholarship applications, and in professional settings, such as job interviews and career assessments.

Please Login to comment...

Similar reads.

• 5 Reasons to Start Using Claude 3 Instead of ChatGPT
• 6 Ways to Identify Who an Unknown Caller
• 10 Best Lavender AI Alternatives and Competitors 2024
• The 7 Best AI Tools for Programmers to Streamline Development in 2024
• 30 OOPs Interview Questions and Answers (2024)

Improve your Coding Skills with Practice

What kind of Experience do you want to share?

71 algorithm interview questions (with solutions and cheat sheet)

If you're a software engineer preparing for a coding interview at a top tech company like Facebook, Google, or Amazon, you'll need to practice solving plenty of algorithm problems.

That's why we've compiled a comprehensive list of 71 typical questions grouped by type (DFS, BFS, sorting, etc.) and included links to high quality solutions.

We've also included the ultimate cheat sheet, giving you key information on space-time complexity for each algorithm at a glance.

Here's a summary of what you'll find below:

• Algorithms cheat sheet
• Depth-first search questions
• Breadth-first search questions
• Binary search questions
• Sorting questions
• Dynamic programming questions
• Greedy algorithm questions
• Backtracking questions
• Divide and conquer questions
• How to prepare for a coding interview

Let's get into it!

Click here to practice coding interviews with ex-FAANG interviewers

1. the ultimate algorithms cheat sheet.

When you're preparing for coding interviews, it helps to have at least some of the key information in one place. We've created an 8-page cheat sheet, which you can use as a handy reference point for the 8 main algorithms.

Right, let's take a look at some typical algorithm questions.

2. Depth-first search

Depth-first search (or DFS) is a traversal option for trees or graphs in which child nodes are visited before their siblings on the same layer.

2.1 Easy depth-first search questions

Question 1: binary tree inorder traversal .

• Text guide   (Dev.to/javinpaul)
• Video guide   (DEEPTI TALESRA)
• Code example   (OldCodingFarmer)

Question 2:  Same tree

• Text guide   (Fatal Errors)
• Text guide   (LeetCode)
• Video guide   (NeetCode)

Question 3: Symmetric tree

• Text guide   (Baeldung)
• Text guide   (Medium/Hary Krishnan)
• Video guide   (Back To Back SWE)
• Code example   (lvlolitte)

2.2 Medium depth-first search questions

Question 4: surrounded regions .

• Text guide   (After Academy)
• Video guide   (Nick White)
• Code example   (Chronoviser)

Question 5: Clone graph

• Text guide   (Medium/Deeksha Sharma)
• Video guide   (Michael Muinos)
• Code example   (mohamede1945)

Question 6:  Number of islands

• Text guide   (Codertrain)
• Video guide   (Kevin Naughton Jr.)
• Code example   (girikuncoro)

Question 7:  Course schedule

• Text guide   (Yu’s Coding)
• Video guide   (Nideesh Terapalli)
• Code example   (varunu28)

2.3 Hard depth-first search questions

Question 8:  binary tree maximum path sum.

• Code example   (arkaung)

Question 9: Alien dictionary

• Text guide   (Medium/Feng Wang)
• Video guide   (happygirlzt)
• Code example   (Tenderleo)

Question 10: Serialize and deserialize binary tree

• Code example   (gavinlinasd)

How did you get on? To practice with more depth-first search questions like this, check out our list of 50+ depth-first search questions with solutions .

3. Breadth-first search

Breadth-first search (or BFS) is one traversal method for trees and graphs in which all vertices on one layer are visited before visiting their children on the next layer – i.e. every node on layer  i  is visited before the nodes on layer  i+1.

3.1 Easy breadth-first search questions

Question 11:  maximum depth of binary tree.

• Text guide   (Aaronice)
• Code example   (makuiyu)

Question 12: Minimum depth of binary tree

• Video guide   (Terrible Whiteboard)
• Code example   (simkieu)

Question 13: Maximum depth of N-ary tree

• Text guide   (Medium/Annamariya Tharayil)
• Code example   (TKroos)

3.2 Medium breadth-first search questions

Question 14: binary tree level order traversal.

• Text guide   (Educative)
• Code example   (SOY)

Question 15: Binary tree zigzag level order traversal

• Text guide   (zhenyu0519)
• Video guide   (Michael Vandi)
• Code example   (fangkunjnsy)

Question 16:  Binary tree level order traversal II

• Text guide   (Medium/Navneet Ojha)

3.3 Hard breadth-first search questions

Question 17: word ladder.

• Text guide   (Medium/Nathan Brickett)
• Code example   (jianchao-li)

Question 18: Word ladder II

• Text guide   (medium/spylogsster)
• Video guide   (TECH DOSE)
• Code example   (antdavid)

Question 19: Cut off trees for golf event

• Text guide   (Zirui)
• Video guide   (Shivam Patel)
• Code example   (shawngao)

Keen to work through some more? See our article, 44 breadth-first search questions and solutions . That should keep you busy for a while!

4. Binary search

Binary search is one of the fastest search algorithms because it halves the search space with each iteration. It requires an ordered set that also has constant access times, meaning that  only sorted arrays are suitable for binary search.

4.1 Easy binary search questions

Question 20: search insert position.

• Text guide   (GeeksForGeeks)

Question  21: Sqrt(x)

• Text guide   (GoodTecher)
• Code example   (AlexTheGreat)

Question 22 : First bad version

• Text guide   (Medium/Mac Sampson)
• Code example   (Cheng_Zhang)

4.2 Medium binary search questions

Question 23:  search in a rotated sorted array.

• Video guide   (Errichto)
• Code example   (1337beef)

Question 24: Find first and last position of element in sorted array

• Text guide   (Enjoy Algorithms)
• Code example   (stellari)

Question 25: Search a 2D matrix

• Text guide   (TheLeanProgrammer)
• Code example   (LeetCode)

4.3 Hard binary search questions

Question 26: median of two sorted arrays.

• Text guide   (Medium/hamid)
• Code example   (MissMary)

Question 27: Count of smaller numbers after self

• Text guide   (Seanforfun)
• Code example   (mayanist)

Question 28: Find minimum in rotated sorted array II

• Text guide   (GraceMeng)
• Video guide   (Naresh Gupta)

For more questions like these, check out our list of 50 binary search questions and solutions .

A sorting algorithm can be performed on arrays or linked lists, in order to rearrange elements according to a series of instructions.  Many algorithms require, or perform better on, a sorted dataset.

5.1 Easy sorting questions

Question 29: contains duplicate .

• Text guide   (Medium/punitkmryh)
• Code example   (jmnarloch)

Question 30: Valid anagram

• Text guide   (Project Debug)

Question 31: Meeting rooms

• Code example   (Seanforfun)

5.2 Medium sorting questions

Question 32: sort an array .

• Text guide   (cc189)
• Video guide   (leetuition)
• Code example   (HaelChan)

Question 33: 3Sum

• Text guide   (fizzbuzzed)
• Code example   (shpolsky)

Question 34: H-index

• Text guide   (TitanWolf)
• Video guide   (Algorithms Made Easy)
• Code example   (yfcheng)

5.3 Hard sorting questions

Question 35: maximum gap.

• Text guide   (Buttercola)
• Video guide   (Coding Decoded)
• Code example   (zkfairytale)

Question 36: Merge k sorted lists

• Code example   (reeclapple)

Question 37: Count of smaller numbers after self

• Text guide   (Mithlesh Kumar)
• Code example   (confiscate)

Need some more sorting questions to practice with? No problem, we've got plenty more here: 54 sorting questions and solutions.

6. Dynamic programming

Dynamic programming is an algorithmic paradigm used to create optimal solutions for complex problems by breaking them down into simpler sub-problems that can be solved recursively.

6.1 Easy dynamic programming questions

Question 38: maximum subarray.

• Video guide   (Back to Back SWE)
• Code example   (FujiwaranoSai)

Question 39: Climbing stairs

• Text guide   (Medium/Analytics Vidhya)
• Code example   (liaison)

Question 40: Pascal's triangle

• Text guide   (Dev.to/seanpgallivan)
• Code example   (rheaxu)

6.2 Medium dynamic programming questions

Question 41: longest palindromic substring.

• Text guide   (RedQuark)

Q uestion 42: Unique paths

Text guide  (Medium/Arpit Choudhary)

Video guide  (NeetCode)

Video guide  (Kevin Naughton Jr.)

• Code example  (jianchao-li)

Q uestion 43: Unique paths II

Text guide  (Medium/Nerd For Tech)

Video guide  (TECH DOSE)

Code example  (tusizi)

6.3 Hard dynamic programming questions

Question 44: regular expression matching.

• Video guide   (Tushar Roy)

Question 45: Maximal rectangle

• Text guide   (Rohith Vazhathody)
• Video guide   (Knapsak)
• Code example   (morrischen2008)

Question 46: Edit distance

• Code example   (anderson5)

Check out plenty more dynamic programming questions here: 53 dynamic programming questions and solutions.

7. Greedy algorithms

A greedy algorithm is an algorithmic paradigm that finds the optimal solution to a problem by breaking the problem down into smaller (local) parts and finding the best solution for each of these parts.

7.1 Easy greedy algorithm questions

Question 47:  assign cookies.

• Text guide   (Medium/Fatboy Slim)
• Code example   (fabrizio)

Question 48: Can place flowers

• Text guide   (dilyar85)
• Code example   (soumyadeep2007)

Question 49: Lemonade change

• Text guide   (Tutorial Cup)
• Code example   (lee215)

7.2 Medium greedy algorithm questions

Question 50: jump game.

• Text guide   (Learnbay)

Question 51: Gas station

• Code example   (daxianji007)

Question 52: Jump game II

• Text guide   (Medium/Nerd For Tech)
• Code example   (Cheng Zhang)

7.3 Hard greedy algorithm questions

Question 53: candy.

• Code example   (meng789987)

Question 54: Create maximum number

• Text guide   (Medium/dume0011)
• Code example   (dietpepsi)

Question 55: Patching array

• Text guide   (HackingNote)
• Video guide   (Timothy H Chang)
• Code example   (StefanPochmann)

For plenty more greedy algorithm questions, see 50 greedy algorithm interview questions .

8. Backtracking

Backtracking is a form of brute-force problem solving, but with the ability to discard potential solutions early, before they are fully explored. It is an algorithmic paradigm for incrementally finding solutions to problems .

8.1 Easy backtracking questions

Backtracking questions don't tend to be very easy, so we've only included one example in this first section .

Question 56: Binary watch

• Text guide   (Medium/Competitive Programming)
• Video guide   (Owen Smith)
• Code example   (xietao0221)

8.2 Medium backtracking questions

Question 57: letter combinations of a phone number.

• Code example   (lei31)

Question 58: Generate parentheses

• Code example   (brobins9)

Question 59: Permutations

• Text guide   (issac3)

8.3 Hard backtracking questions

Question 60: word break ii.

• Text guide   (Java questions)
• Video guide   (babybear4812)

Question 61: Sudoku solver

Question 62: stickers to spell word.

• Text guide   (linlaw)
• Code example   (zestypanda)

You can find lots more backtracking questions to practice with right here: 47 backtracking interview questions.

9. Divide and conquer

Divide and conquer is an algorithmic paradigm used to solve problems by continually dividing the problem into smaller parts until a part is easy enough to solve (conquer) on its own. The solutions to the solved parts are then combined to give the solution for the original problem.

9.1 Easy divide and conquer questions

Question 63:  maximum subarray.

• Text guide   (Techie Delight)
• Video guide   (Ghassan Shobaki)

Question 64: Majority element

• Text guide   (enjoy algorithms)
• Code example   (coderoath)

Question 65: First bad version

• Text guide   (Studytonight)
• Code example   (RainbowSecret)

9.2 Medium divide and conquer questions

Question 66: kth largest element in an array.

• Text guide   (Coder’s Cat)

Question 67: Search a 2D matrix II

• Text guide   (Medium/Nerd for tech)

Question 68: Longest substring with at least K repeating characters

• Video guide   (Knowledge Center)
• Code example   (cdpiano)

9.3 Hard divide and conquer questions

Question 69: median of two sorted arrays, question 70: reverse pairs.

• Text guide   (Tutorialhorizon)
• Video guide   (take U forward)
• Code example   (fun4LeetCode)

Question 71: Count of smaller numbers after self

• Text guide   (Programmerall)

For lots more divide and conquer questions, see our article 50 divide and conquer interview questions and cheat sheet.

Need a boost in your career as a software engineer?

If you want to improve your skills as an engineer or leader, tackle an issue at work, get promoted, or understand the next steps to take in your career, book a session with one of our software engineering coaches.

10. How to prepare for a coding interview

If you're reading this article, it probably means that you're already up and running on the most important step towards preparing to ace a coding interview at Facebook , Google, Amazon, Microsoft, LinkedIn , Airbnb or another tech company: practicing a lot of questions.

However, that's not all you need to be confident of killing it in an interview situation. To make sure you're really, truly prepared, we recommend following the three steps below. For extra tips, take a look at our list of 21 coding interview tips from ex-interviewers .

10.1 Refresh your knowledge

You'll need to be confident on all the algorithms we've gone through here. To refresh your knowledge, and to review data structures, check out our specific guides:

Algorithms explained:

• Depth-first search
• Breadth-first search
• Binary search
• Dynamic programming
• Greedy algorithm
• Backtracking
• Divide and conquer

Data structure guides:

• Arrays  
• Strings  
• Linked lists  
• Stacks and queues  
• Graphs  
• Heaps 

To review big-O notation in order to assess the time and space requirements of your algorithms, study our complete guide on big-O notation and complexity analysis .

10.2 Learn a framework

We recommend getting used to the step-by-step approach explained in the video below. The video was made by Amazon, but it's relevant for coding interviews at any tech company.

Here is a summary of the approach:

• Ask clarification questions to remove ambiguity about the problem
• Explore the edges of the problem
• Discuss potential approaches you could take
• Pick an approach and lay out the high level steps
• Write clean code, not pseudocode
• Comment on your code as you go
• Start by testing with a simple example
• Try breaking your code with edge and corner cases
• Calculate time complexity
• Discuss how you can optimize your solution

For a more complete breakdown of this framework, plus a full example answer, take a look at our guide on how to answer coding interview questions .

Once you're comfortable with a framework, you'll want to start putting it into practice. This brings us to the next step:

10.3 Practice on your own

To practice algorithm questions, we recommend going through the questions we've listed above and trying to solve each one. If you find you need more questions on any of the topics, simply click on the links below:

• Depth-first search interview questions
• Breadth-first search interview questions
• Binary search interview questions
• Sorting interview questions
• Dynamic programming interview questions
• Greedy algorithm interview questions
• Backtracking interview questions
• Divide and conquer interview questions

For data structure questions, we recommend  practicing with our list of 73 data structure interview questions .  Don't forget to practice questions on a whiteboard or simple text editor instead of an IDE.

10.4 Practice with others

Practicing solving coding problems on your own is a great way to prepare, but it's not enough. If you make it to the onsite interview stage, you'll be expected to code on a whiteboard (or virtual equivalent) and talk through your approach as you code. This can be really tricky if you're not used to it.

That's why we recommend practicing with experts who can give you insightful feedback. If you know a software engineer or similar who has experience running interviews at the company you're interviewing at, then that's fantastic. But for most of us, it's tough to find the right connections to make this happen. And it might also be difficult to practice multiple hours with that person unless you know them really well. 

Here's the good news. We've already made the connections for you. We’ve created a coaching service where you can practice 1-on-1 with ex-interviewers from leading tech companies like Facebook, Google, and Amazon.  Learn more and start scheduling sessions today . 

22 Coding Interview Questions Every Developer Should Know

Coding tests have been the backbone of technical hiring for decades. If you’re a web developer, programmer, or engineer on the job market, your ability to demonstrate your skills in a coding interview is critical to landing your next role. 

The key to succeeding in these interviews is preparing well for the styles of problems you might encounter. In this post, we’ll break down four categories of coding interview questions you could face — and 22 sample questions to help you start preparing.

Web Developer Interview Questions: An Overview

Coding interview questions  — sometimes called coding challenges — ask developers to write code to find an answer to a problem. Depending on the role and company, coding questions can be language-specific or allow developers to respond in their coding language of choice. Often, these questions are asked directly via an in-browser IDE that  provides developers with the tools they need  to provide a solution in full.

While coding questions come in a variety of formats, the strategies for answering them are similar. As you write your code, you’ll be expected to explain your solution to the hiring team. They’ll typically give you real-time feedback on the efficacy, complexity, and accuracy of your solution.

It’s important to keep in mind that a “correct” answer isn’t always enough to pass a coding interview. That’s because the approach also allows hiring teams to assess your technical communication, your code quality, and the efficiency of the solution.

Examples of coding tests include: 

• Take-home tests sent during screening
• Multiple-choice tests
• Project-based tests 
• Pair-programming in a virtual IDE

This part of the process is highly variable, with hiring managers able to choose from a number of formats on how to evaluate technical skills. Programmers will need to carefully prepare to ensure they can adapt to a variety of challenges.

Types of Coding Interview Questions

There are a number of different types of coding questions employers can use to evaluate a programmer’s coding skills. The difficulty and composition of these tests will vary based on the experience-level of the role. 

Generally, the more experienced a developer is, the more ambiguous and challenging the questions they will be asked. For example, candidates for entry-level roles might complete coding questions that test execution of predefined problems. In contrast, questions for senior roles can become more open-ended, writing code for problems without predefined solutions. 

The following is a list of the types of coding questions a programmer might encounter during a technical interview.

Algorithm questions are foundational to the technical interview. They test a candidate’s coding skills and ability to solve problems with algorithms in a programming language of their choice.

Sample Question : The Efficient Janitor

The janitor of a high school is extremely efficient. By the end of each day, all of the school’s waste is in plastic bags weighing between 1.01 pounds and 3.00 pounds. All plastic bags are then taken to the trash bins outside. One trip is described as selecting a number of bags which together do not weigh more than 3.00 pounds, dumping them in the outside trash can and returning to the school. Given the number of plastic bags, and the weights of each bag, determine the minimum number of trips the janitor has to make.

This problem tests the candidate’s ability to use two pointers to search for pairs in an assorted array.

More algorithm coding questions:

• Given an array of integers, find the sum of its elements. For example, if ar = [1, 2, 3] , 1 + 2 + 3 = 6. So, return 6.
• Given a square matrix, calculate the absolute difference between the sums of its diagonals. For example, the square matrix ar = [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 , 7, 8, 9 ], arranged in a 3×3 grid resembling a phone keypad.
• You are in charge of the cake for a child’s birthday. You have decided the cake will have one candle for each year of their total age. They will only be able to blow out the tallest of the candles. Count how many candles are tallest. For example, in the array candles = [4, 4, 1, 3] , return 2.
• Given a time in 12-hour AM/PM format, convert it to 24-hour military time. 12:00:00AM on a 12-hour clock is 00:00:00 on a 24-hour clock. 12:00:00PM on a 12-hour clock is 12:00:00 on a 24-hour clock. For example, if s = 12:01:00AM , return 00:01:00 .

Data Structures

Data structures are a fundamental concept of computer science and any programming language. Essential for algorithmic design, programmers use data structures for the efficient organization and modification of data.

Sample Question: Binary Search Tree

You are given a pointer to the root of a binary search tree and values to be inserted into the tree. Insert the values into their appropriate position in the binary search tree and return the root of the updated binary tree. You just have to complete the function.

A binary search tree is a rooted binary tree data structure with internal nodes that each store a key less than all the keys in its right subtree and greater than all the keys in the node’s left subtree.

This question tests a programmer’s ability to work with data structures to solve problems.

More data structure questions:

• Delete the node at a given position in a linked list and return a reference to the head node. The head is at position 0.
• You are given the pointer to the head node of a linked list and an integer to add to the list. Create a new node with the given integer. Insert this node at the tail of the linked list and return the head node of the linked list formed after inserting this new node. The given head pointer may be null, meaning that the initial list is empty.
• Given a pointer to the head node of a linked list, print each node’s  element, one per line. If the head pointer is null (indicating the list is empty), there is nothing to print.
• A linked list is said to contain a cycle if any node is visited more than once while traversing the list. Given a pointer to the head of a linked list, determine if it contains a cycle. If it does, return 1. Otherwise, return 0.

An array is a data structure containing elements identified by one or more indexes or keys. Arrays are a fundamental data structure, making them a favorite of interviewers looking to test programmers coding skill. Because the size of an array can’t change, solving this style of question requires finding the optimal way to either rearrange or copy the array into the correct result.

Sample Question: Automated Cutting Machine

An automated cutting machine is used to cut rods into segments. The cutting machine can only hold a rod of minLength or more. A rod is marked with the necessary cuts and their lengths are given as an array in the order they are marked. Determine if it is possible to plan the cuts so the last cut is from a rod at least minLength units long.

This problem tests a programmer’s ability to use arrays, along with loops and greedy algorithms. It requires the programmer to come up with an algorithm to check if an array of given lengths of the rod can be cut from left and right exactly n – 1 time and the remaining size of the rod is at least minLength in a constrained time and space complexity.

More array coding questions:

• Write a program to check if two arrays are equal.
• How do you find the smallest and largest numbers in an unsorted array? 
• There is a collection of input strings and a collection of query strings. For each query string, determine how many times it occurs in the list of input strings. Return an array of the results.
• A left rotation operation on an array of size n shifts each of the array’s elements unit to the left. Given an integer, d , rotate the array that many steps left and return the result.
• Starting with a 1-indexed array of zeros and a list of operations, for each operation add a value to each the array element between two given indices, inclusive. Once all operations have been performed, return the maximum value in the array.

Language-Specific Problems

Most coding questions aren’t specific to a particular programming language, allowing a programmer to write code in their language of choice. However, some coding interviews will have questions that test a specific language required by the role.

Sample Question: Enhanced Flexible Grid

Languages: JavaScript, CSS

Create a flexible grid with 1 row and 4 columns. The width of each column is 25% of the window size. This percentage width must be maintained even if the page is resized. Each cell of the grid can contain another 1×4 flexible grid. The border of the grid must be 1px black.

Perform the following operations based on the value of window size:

• If the window size is less than 720px, then the 1×4 flexible grid becomes a 2×2 grid. That is, the 3rd and 4th columns slide down onto the 2nd row.
• If the window size is less than 360px, then the 1×4 flexible grid becomes 4×1 grid. Each column slides under the one before it. The 2nd column slides under the 1st, the 3rd slides under the 2nd, and the 4th slides under the 3rd.

This question tests a developer’s ability to write code in JS and CSS and build UI elements. Essential to responsive design, a flexible grid tests a candidate’s ability to perform a task required by a role in front-end development.

More language-specific coding questions:

• A hacker practices on HackerRank until getting to a rating of O(1) read as (Oh-one) . Call the method coder.practice until coder.oh_one? becomes true. Use the until control structure. until is the logical equivalent of while not. This challenge has a one-line answer. (Language: Ruby)
• Write a function int max_of_four(int a, int b, int c, int d) which reads four arguments and returns the greatest of them. There is not a built-in max function in C. Code that will be reused is often put in a separate function, e.g. int max(x, y) that returns the greater of the two values. Input will contain four integers – a, b, c, d – one on each line. Note: I/O will be automatically handled. (Language: C)
• The opening tags follow the format: <tag-name attribute1-name = “value1” attribute2-name = “value2” …>.   
• The closing tags follow the format: </tag-name> . 
• The attributes are referenced as: tag1~value, tag1.tag2~name
• Given the source code in HRML format consisting of N lines, answer Q queries. For each query, print the value of the attribute specified. Print “Not Found!” if the attribute does not exist.
• If n is odd, print Weird
• If n is even and in the inclusive range of 2 to 5, print Not Weird
• If n is even and in the inclusive range of 6 to 20, print Weird
• If n is even and greater than 20, print Not Weird
• Input format: a single line containing a positive integer n. Constraints: 1 <= n <= 100.
• (Language: Java)

Resources to Prepare for Web Developer Interviews

HackerRank for Developers

15 Common Problem-Solving Interview Questions

Software Engineering Questions to Know in 2022

7 System Design Interview Questions Every Software Engineer Should Know

What Does a Software Developer Do? Role Overview and Skill Expectations

Get started with HackerRank

Over 2,500 companies and 40% of developers worldwide use HackerRank to hire tech talent and sharpen their skills.

Recommended topics

• Coding Questions
• Interview Preparation

6 REST API Interview Questions Every Developer Should Know

• Trending Now
• Foundational Courses
• Data Science
• Practice Problem
• Machine Learning
• System Design
• DevOps Tutorial
• 90% Refund on Courses
• Share Your Experience
• How to Deal With Layoffs During Coronavirus Pandemic?
• How can You Boost Your Career to the Next Level?
• 5 Ways to Succeed In Technology Sector
• What Difficulties are Faced by Self-Taught Programmers?
• Top 5 Reasons to Choose Public Relations as a Career
• Why Non-Linear Career Paths are a Great Option to Achieve Career Success?
• 9 Ways to Become a Successful Freelance Programmer
• Tips for Non-CS/IT Students to Get Into Computer Science Field
• How to become a Freelance Developer
• 10 Success Tips When You’re Learning To Code
• What To Do After Engineering - MTech, MBA, MS or a Job?
• Why GeeksforGeeks is an Essential Platform for CS/IT Students?
• 10 Possible Reasons You're Not Getting Hired
• Best Career Options for CS/IT Graduates
• Things every final year student should do to get a job in their dream company
• 10 Tips & Strategies to Overcome Stagnation in Career
• How to Keep Your Skills Updated As a Software Developer?
• I don't like Coding. What should I do to Get a Job in IT?
• How to Become a Senior Software Developer?
• Coding for Everyone Course

20 Smart Questions to Ask in an Interview

If you’ve ever faced any interview then you must have heard this line from the interviewer – Do you have any questions to ask? Indeed, an interviewer expects you to ask several worthwhile questions to determine your interest and zeal toward the job opportunity. Moreover, asking relevant questions to the interviewer not only makes your impression right but also helps you to know some useful insights into the company such as the company’s environment , your daily tasks , future opportunities , and many more. Though you’re required to be very concerned and ask only relevant & worthwhile questions to the interviewer for better outcomes!!

Questions to Ask in an Interview:

However, you can come up with various spontaneous questions in your mind during the interview but having several questions ready before the interview will boost your confidence and give you an edge over other candidates. Now you must be thinking – What are those impactful questions to ask in an interview? No worries, here in this article, we will let you know about several most-recommended and relevant questions that you can ask the interviewer to make the right impression and increase your chances of getting success.

1. Can you please let me know about the culture & values of the company?

You can start the process of asking questions from here. This question will help you to know about the culture and core values of the company that further will help you to identify the working environment of the organization. The other purpose of this question is to let the interviewer know that you’re genuinely interested & concerned about this particular job opportunity and want to know about every required aspect of the company for this job profile.

2. What will be my primary responsibilities in this job position?

This question will help you to learn about your job role in detail and what will be your day-to-day tasks in the organization at the specified job profile. Though you must keep in mind that if your day-to-day tasks or responsibilities are clearly & thoroughly mentioned in the job description or provided by the interviewer priorly then try to avoid asking this particular question.

3. What will be the biggest challenges of this job role?

Here comes another prominent question! Firstly it will let you know about the actual picture of the job role and other useful insights (which you probably won’t get from the job description) and will help you prepare for the problems or challenges you will be facing in the designated job position. Secondly, it will give the interviewer an idea about your challenge-facing quality or skill when you discuss it in detail.

4. Does This Company Provide Any On-Job Training?

It’s great to ask the interviewer about the training which is provided in the company as this will help in enhancing your skills furthermore. This will also let them understand your mindset of growth and that you want to have a vision. Asking about training will also show that you are concerned about the company’s growth as well. 

5. What are the prospects for career growth in this profile?

This is also a relevant question to ask the interviewer. It’ll help you to know about future career opportunities and the career advancement processes in the company. This question will also help you to let the interviewer know about your long-term vision or plan of working within the company . Furthermore, you must ensure to not ask several unnecessary or inadvisable questions regarding career growth such as – when will I get a salary hike or promotion , etc.

6. Is overtime required for this job role?

People might think that this is a negative question but eventually it implies your interest in completing any task. It also clears your intention that you take your work seriously and shows your ability to understand what your position entitles. Apart from this, it also gives you clarity about the job role that you are going to play and what will be your importance in the particular team. 

7. What is the kind of leadership required in the company?

This is also a relevant question as it shows that you are looking you are a candidate who is looking forward to staying for a long time in the company. This also gives a positive impact on your hiring manager that you are a reliable person and want to demonstrate your skills for the betterment of the company. 

8. Are there any opportunities for professional development for employees?

Here you can ask if the company promotes professional development culture and offers several development programs. It will help you to know whether the company offers opportunities to learn and grow to the employees or not. It will also let the interviewer know about your learning and professional development goals . However, while asking this question, you must keep in mind that it should not sound too selfish or individualistic as it can make a negative impact on the interviewer.

9. What are the goals of the company for the future?

Indeed, apart from asking about career growth or other professional development opportunities, you’re also required to ask about the future goals and objectives of the company . It will give the interviewer a glimpse of your concern & curiosity about the company and job opportunity. Moreover, you can also convert this question into an opportunity to let the interviewer know about your prior research on the company by sharing several crucial insights or information about the company regarding future goals.

Also Read | Does Company Culture Matter in a Software Engineer Job?

10. How does the company evaluate the performance of employees?

You can ask this question to show your curiosity about the job role and your vision of long-term working in the company. Also, it will help you find some additional valuable information regarding the job profile and career advancement in the company that will help in the future. You can learn about several key performance indicators and other performance measure s on which the company works through this particular question.

11. Does senior management interact with new/existing employees?

Asking this question will show that you are a social person and a team player . You want to work in accordance with everyone and not be a loner. Also, you are quite enthusiastic about taking part in the different activities in the company rather than just trying to complete your work in the given hours. This shows your interest in the position that you are supposed to portray in the company. 

12. Is there anything else I can clarify to you about my qualifications, resume, etc.?

You must keep in mind that the interview has not ended yet and you still have some chances to impress the interviewer and showcase some of your skills & strengths that have not been discussed yet. Hence, you’re recommended to ask the interviewer if there is something more you can provide to him that would be helpful for your assessment and making the final decision. Though, don’t boast about any of the irrelevant or unnecessary skills from the perspective of the particular job profile.

13. Any special project that I will be working on?

This question will definitely impress your interviewer as it depicts your enthusiasm for the role you are about to play. Many people just ask and answer basic questions, but asking this question will make you stand out from the crowd and show your emerging personality as a leader too. Also, it is a good chance to show off the skills that you have learned till now. 

14. What suggestions would you like to give me based on my interview performance?

You can prefer to ask for several suggestions or feedback for your interview performance from the interviewer to make the right impression and to create a better professional connection with the interviewer. It will not only show your optimistic and positive nature to the interviewer but also help you to get some worthwhile suggestions or advice that further will help you a lot in your upcoming interviews or other career opportunities in the future.

15. What will be the further steps in the interview process?

Though this question can be considered as a part of the follow-up process and you can ask it from the interviewer to show your enthusiasm and dedication towards the job opportunity. Also, it will help you to know about the further interview process and the respective schedule to prepare yourself accordingly. However, you need to be very professional & obliged while asking this question and don’t act too eager or impatient. 

Here are a Few More Questions That One Can Ask the Interviewer:

• How soon do you want me to join the company?
• What are the different departments I will have to work with?
• Besides this job description, will I be part of any other project?
• Is there any concern or challenge that you want me to work on?
• Does this position offer offsite training or other company visits?

Questions You Must Avoid Asking:

Here are a few questions that you must avoid asking your interviewer directly:

• What will be my salary?
• How many leaves I will get in a month/year?
• Is there any late coming or early leaving policy?
• Who are the main competitors of the company?
• What is the worse thing about the team or company?

Conclusion:

So, these are several most-recommended questions that you can prefer to ask in an interview to make a positive impact on the interviewer. However, you can ask various other questions as well according to the interview scenario. All you have to keep in mind is that the questions should be specific and relevant to the job profile!!

Please Login to comment...

Similar reads.

• Career-Advices

Improve your Coding Skills with Practice

What kind of Experience do you want to share?

How to Nail your next Technical Interview

You may be missing out on a 66.5% salary hike*, nick camilleri, how many years of coding experience do you have, free course on 'sorting algorithms' by omkar deshpande (stanford phd, head of curriculum, ik), help us with your details.

Top Hulu Software Engineering Interview Questions

Last updated by Utkarsh Sahu on Apr 01, 2024 at 01:26 PM | Reading time: 8 minutes

Online streaming has become an important part of everyone's lives. If you want to see behind the scenes and work for one of these companies, Hulu might be a good fit. Hulu is a premium streaming service that is co-owned by Disney.

As a member of the company's engineering team, you'll see firsthand how streaming platforms work and what goes into making them run smoothly. We have compiled a list of Hulu software engineering interview questions to assist you in preparing for the interview.

If you are preparing for a tech interview, check out our technical interview checklist , interview questions page, and salary negotiation e-book to get interview-ready!

Having trained over 11,000 software engineers , we know what it takes to crack the most challenging tech interviews. Our alums consistently land offers from FAANG+ companies. The highest ever offer received by an IK alum is a whopping $1.267 Million!

At IK, you get the unique opportunity to learn from expert instructors who are hiring managers and tech leads at Google, Facebook, Apple, and other top Silicon Valley tech companies.

Want to nail your next tech interview ? Sign up for our FREE Webinar .

In this article, we’ll be covering:

An Overview of Hulu

Role and responsibilities of a hulu software engineer, technical hulu software engineering interview questions, behavioral hulu software engineering interview questions, faqs on hulu software engineering interview questions.

Co-owned by Disney, 21st Century Fox, and NBC Universal, Hulu is an online video streaming service. Since it is a part of Disney’s Media and Entertainment Distribution division, it is the only service that offers its users current shows from every major US broadcast network.

These networks include ABC, NBC, FX, and Hulu original programming. The service was launched in October 2007.  

Hulu software engineers are responsible for improving the platform and delivering a dynamic experience to its users. If you’re passionate about creating well-suited systems for scalability, security, and reliability, this might be the perfect role for you.

As a Hulu software engineer, your responsibilities will include:

• Building and developing large-scale, real-time, dependable, and globally available platforms.
• Creating robust and scalable microservices as well as data pipelines.
• End-to-end ownership of backend services, from ideation, review design to launch, and monitor performance.
• Working with other team members (including product owners, TPMs, and other business units) to meet product and business requirements.
• Use a mix of technologies, including Java, Python, Kafka, Redis, MySQL, Flink, Spark, AWS, etc.

When preparing for your tech interview, ensure that you go over these Hulu software engineering interview questions as well as the concepts they’re based on:

• Merge two sorted linked lists and return them as a new list. Make sure that the new list should be made by splicing together the nodes of the first two lists and should also be sorted.
• How does Insertion Sort work?
• How would you optimize Bubble Sort ?
• Explain how you would design a URL shortening service like Goo.gl or Bit.Ly?
• How would you go about creating your own Instagram?
• Design an ATM.
• Given: An integer array.

Find: A triplet with the maximum product.

• Given an array of coins having different denominations and an integer sum representing the total money, return the fewest coins required to make up that sum; if it’s not possible to construct that sum, then return -1.
• How would you design Hulu functionality to limit the number of streams across devices?
• What type of algorithm would you use to design Facebook’s newsfeed?
• Given a binary tree, print the top view of it. Assume the left and right child of a node makes a 45–degree angle with the parent.
• Write a hangman AI solver in 6 hours.
• Find the lower bound of a given number in a sorted array .
• How would you design a JS function, given a namespace in the format "abc.def.hij" and creates the namespace such that abc.def.hij === {}
• Implement an LRU cache.
• How would you convert an XML file into a tree, assuming the file has been parsed, and you have the iterator to get the next node?
• Given: An array of integers.

Find: The smallest k that through +/- at most k for each element, the array can be changed to a strictly increasing array.

• How would you write a program that plays word search?
• Given: A list of employees and their bosses as a CSV file.

Write: A function that will print out a hierarchy tree of the employees.

• What is the most efficient way to traverse through a given tree structure ?

Note: Implementing an LRU cache is one of the most popular Hulu software engineering interview questions.

Hulu interviews include behavioral questions to determine your ability to deal with difficult situations and make decisions at work. You can expect these behavioral Hulu software engineering interview questions:

• According to you, why do you think people are still paying for cable TV?
• How has streaming changed the way content is consumed these days?
• Can you name one effective method for driving audience engagement in the streaming industry?
• Tell me about the most important advancement in streaming technology in the past year.
• We always try to be the first in everything that we do. How do you stay ahead in the latest television trends?
• We’re a pretty competitive company and always strive to be one step ahead of our competitors. How will you continue this trend?
• What is your technical specialty?
• According to you, which is the most influential form of media nowadays?
• How does Hulu compete with Amazon Prime Video?
• Would you violate Hulu policy to make a customer happy if you had to?
• Tell me about your favorite show on Hulu currently.
• Why would a consumer choose Hulu over other companies offering video streaming services?
• Have you ever had to contact Hulu’s customer service? If yes, how was the experience?
• We are always on the lookout for highly ambitious people. Where would you like your career with Hulu to take you?
• As this role is pretty technical, can you explain your understanding and what it entails?

Q1. How long does it take to get hired at Hulu?

On average, the Hulu hiring process takes around 23 days. This is based on the reviews written by people on glassdoor.com across different job titles at the company.

Q2. Does Hulu pay well?

The salary range at Hulu ranges from around $55,554 a year for an Ad Trafficker to $259,830 a year for a senior software engineer on average.

Q3. What are some Hulu software engineering interview questions asked in behavioral rounds?

Some questions are — Why do you want to work at Hulu? What interests you about this position? Looking at our products and services, what do you think we do better at Hulu than our competitors?

Q4. What is the average salary of a software engineer at Hulu?

A software engineer at Hulu makes around $166,750 per year. This includes a base salary of $131,000 with a $35,750 bonus.

Q5. How to get hired at Hulu?

To get hired at Hulu as a software engineer, you’ll need to have a BS or MS in Computer Science or equivalent work experience. When preparing for the company’s interview process, ensure that you prepare questions based on algorithms , data structures, and system design.

Want to Crack the Hulu Software Engineer Interview ?

If you’re looking for guidance as you prepare for the Hulu software engineering interview questions, sign up for our free webinar .

Interview Kickstart offers interview preparation courses taught by FAANG tech leads and seasoned hiring managers. We have trained thousands of software engineers to crack the most challenging interviews at Google, Facebook, Amazon, Apple, Netflix, and other top tech companies.

Register for our FREE webinar to learn more!

Recession-proof your Career

Recession-proof your software engineering career.

Attend our free webinar to amp up your career and get the salary you deserve.

Attend our Free Webinar on How to Nail Your Next Technical Interview

Latest Posts

Cracking the ml job interview: how interview kickstart boosts your confidence, top advanced python interview questions and answers, 3m interview questions and answers you should prepare, ready to enroll, next webinar starts in.

Get  tech interview-ready to navigate a tough job market

• Designed by 500 FAANG+ experts
• Live training and mock interviews
• 17000+ tech professionals trained