The Essential Coding Interview Checklist
Follow This List to Maximize Your Performance
Coding interviews can be nerve-wracking. Under pressure, it's easy to overlook important details or rush through steps. I’ve designed this checklist to help you navigate the coding interview process systematically, ensuring you present your best self to potential employers.
You can use this checklist during the interview - this won’t be considered cheating!
Before You Start Coding
Do not rush into discussing the approach, instead focus on understanding the problem.
1. Understand the Problem Thoroughly
Clarify the Problem
[ ] Restate the problem in your own words.
[ ] Ask clarifying questions to resolve any uncertainties.
Confirm Inputs and Outputs
[ ] Determine expected input types and formats.
[ ] Verify the required output.
Identify Constraints and Edge Cases
[ ] Discuss input constraints and determine target time and space complexities.
[ ] Consider possible edge cases and how to handle them.
Once you thoroughly understand the problem requirements, do not rush into coding. Instead start planning your solution.
2. Plan Your Solution
Think Out Loud
[ ] Share your thought process with the interviewer.
Outline Your Approach
[ ] Propose a high-level solution.
[ ] Explain why you chose this approach.
Select Appropriate Data Structures and Algorithms
[ ] Choose data structures that fit the problem.
[ ] Ensure your algorithm meets the constraints.
While Coding
Time is limited, but with just a little bit of effort, you can still write beautiful code and impress your interviewer.
3. Write Clean and Correct Code
Use Clear Naming
[ ] Use descriptive variable and function names.
Follow Coding Standards
[ ] Write readable and well-formatted code.
Code Incrementally
[ ] Implement your solution step by step.
Handle Edge Cases
[ ] Include checks for edge cases in your code.
After Coding
Do not just say “I’m done“. This is the moment where you show your professionalism.
4. Test Your Code
Run Through Test Cases
[ ] Test your code with sample inputs, including edge cases.
[ ] Verify that it produces the correct outputs.
5. Analyze Time and Space Complexity
Discuss Complexity
[ ] State the time complexity of your solution.
[ ] State the space complexity.
[ ] Confirm that it meets the problem's constraints.
6. Communicate and Reflect
Explain Your Code
[ ] Walk through your code with the interviewer.
[ ] Clarify any parts that may be confusing.
Be Open to Feedback
[ ] Listen to the interviewer's suggestions.
[ ] Be willing to discuss alternative approaches.
Throughout The Interview
A few other things to remember:
7. Keep Calm
Stay Calm and Focused
[ ] Maintain a clear and logical thought process.
[ ] Don't rush; take a moment to think before acting.
Effective Communication
[ ] Speak clearly and confidently.
[ ] Keep the interviewer engaged in your problem-solving process.
To Sum Up
By concentrating on these essential steps during your technical interview, you'll demonstrate your ability to understand problems thoroughly, devise effective solutions, write clean code, test and debug, and communicate your thought process—all key qualities that interviewers are looking for.
Stay curious and happy coding!
Nurbo
Need Help with Coding Interviews?
Are you struggling with coding problems or feeling unprepared for your upcoming interviews? You're not alone, and I'm here to help.
With years of experience as a coding interview coach, I offer personalized one-on-one sessions to:
Master problem-solving skills for coding and system design interviews
Boost your confidence for the big day
Develop effective strategies to level up your tech career
Ready to elevate your coding interview skills? Book a personalized 1:1 coaching session with me today!
Still have questions? Let's chat! You can book a free 30-minute consultation to discuss how I can help you achieve your goals.
Feel free to email me at nurbo.kusmagul@(google’s email service) or connect with me on LinkedIn.
Looking forward to helping you succeed!