How long to prep for coding interview?

The time it takes to prepare for a coding interview varies depending on your current skill level, familiarity with data structures and algorithms, and the complexity of the role you're applying for. On average, most people dedicate 2-3 months of consistent practice, but this timeline can adjust based on your starting point.

How Long to Prepare Based on Your Skill Level

1. Beginner (No Coding Experience)

• Time Needed: 4–6 months
• Focus Areas:
  • Learn a programming language (e.g., Python, Java).
  • Understand basic coding concepts (variables, loops, conditionals).
  • Study foundational data structures like arrays, linked lists, and hashmaps.
  • Build a few simple projects to practice coding.

2. Intermediate (Some Coding Knowledge)

• Time Needed: 2–3 months
• Focus Areas:
  • Strengthen problem-solving skills by practicing algorithms.
  • Learn advanced data structures (trees, graphs, heaps).
  • Solve coding problems of medium difficulty on platforms like LeetCode or HackerRank.
  • Prepare for behavioral interview questions.

3. Advanced (Experienced Developer)

• Time Needed: 1–2 months
• Focus Areas:
  • Brush up on commonly asked algorithmic patterns (e.g., sliding window, two-pointer).
  • Practice mock interviews with peers or platforms.
  • Focus on domain-specific knowledge like system design for senior roles.

General Preparation Plan

Month 1: Learn the Basics

• Learn: Data structures like arrays, linked lists, stacks, and queues.
• Practice: Easy problems on coding platforms.
• Resources:
  • Grokking Python Fundamentals (for language basics).
  • Grokking the Coding Interview: Patterns for Coding Questions (for algorithm patterns).

Month 2: Practice Problem-Solving

• Focus On: Medium-level problems involving recursion, dynamic programming, and graph traversal.
• Tools: LeetCode, Codeforces, or HackerRank.
• Additional Prep: Work on mock interviews and behavioral questions.

Month 3 (Optional): Refine and Review

• Specialize: Prepare for role-specific topics, such as:
  • System design for backend roles (Grokking System Design Fundamentals).
  • Object-oriented design and architecture for mid-level roles.
• Mock Interviews: Schedule practice sessions to simulate real interview conditions.

Key Factors That Affect Preparation Time

1. Role Complexity

• Entry-level positions require less preparation than senior or specialized roles.

2. Target Company

• Companies like Google, Amazon, or Facebook (FAANG) require rigorous preparation, often focusing on advanced algorithms and system design.

3. Daily Time Commitment

• Devoting 2–4 hours daily accelerates your progress.

4. Consistency

• Regular, focused practice is more effective than cramming.

The Bottom Line

For most candidates, 2–3 months of consistent preparation is sufficient to excel in coding interviews. Start with the basics, progress to solving medium-level problems, and incorporate mock interviews to build confidence. Tailor your plan based on your experience level and the company or role you’re targeting.