How to prepare for a coding interview in 3 days?

Preparing for a coding interview in just three days is challenging, but with a focused and strategic approach, you can maximize your efforts and improve your chances of success. Here’s a structured plan to help you make the most of your limited time:

Day 1: Focus on Core Concepts and High-Yield Problems

1. Review Key Data Structures and Algorithms

• Data Structures: Arrays, Linked Lists, Stacks, Queues, Trees, Graphs, Hash Tables.
• Algorithms: Sorting (Quick, Merge), Searching (Binary Search), Recursion, Dynamic Programming.

2. Understand Common Coding Patterns

• Sliding Window
• Two Pointers
• Fast and Slow Pointers
• Depth-First Search (DFS) and Breadth-First Search (BFS)
• Dynamic Programming Patterns

3. Practice High-Yield Coding Problems

• LeetCode: Focus on easy to medium problems, especially those tagged with common patterns.
• HackerRank: Solve problems in your preferred programming language to build confidence.

4. Utilize Quick Reference Guides

• Cheat Sheets: Use data structure and algorithm cheat sheets to reinforce your understanding.
• Video Tutorials: Watch short tutorials on specific topics you find challenging.

Day 2: Intensive Problem Solving and Mock Interviews

1. Solve More Coding Problems

• Focus Areas: Prioritize problems related to arrays, strings, and dynamic programming.
• Time Management: Practice solving problems within a set time limit to simulate interview conditions.

2. Conduct a Mock Interview

• Simulate Real Conditions: Use platforms like DesignGurus.io or Pramp for free mock interviews.
• Receive Feedback: Take notes on areas where you can improve based on feedback.

3. Review and Optimize Solutions

• Analyze Your Code: Look for ways to optimize your solutions for better time and space complexity.
• Understand Mistakes: Go through any errors or inefficiencies in your previous solutions and learn how to avoid them.

4. Prepare for Behavioral Questions

• STAR Method: Structure your answers using Situation, Task, Action, Result.
• Common Questions: Practice answers for questions like "Tell me about yourself," "Describe a challenging project," and "How do you handle conflicts?"

Day 3: Final Review and Confidence Building

1. Focus on System Design (If Applicable)

• Basic Principles: Understand scalability, load balancing, database management, and API design.
• Sample Questions: Think through how you would design a social media platform, e-commerce site, or other relevant systems.

2. Final Coding Practice

• Revisit Tough Problems: Go back to any challenging problems you encountered on Day 1 and Day 2.
• Ensure Mastery: Make sure you can solve these problems confidently and efficiently.

3. Review Key Concepts and Notes

• Summarize Learnings: Create a summary of important concepts, patterns, and solutions.
• Flashcards: Use flashcards for quick revision of key topics and definitions.

4. Relax and Build Confidence

• Mental Preparation: Take breaks to avoid burnout. Engage in activities that help you relax and stay positive.
• Sleep Well: Ensure you get a good night’s sleep before the interview to be alert and focused.

Recommended Resources

DesignGurus.io Courses

Enhance your preparation with these specialized courses:

• Grokking the Coding Interview: Patterns for Coding Questions
  Master common coding patterns to confidently tackle various interview questions.

• Grokking Data Structures & Algorithms for Coding Interviews
  Deepen your understanding of essential data structures and algorithms critical for technical interviews.

• Coding Mock Interview
  Simulate real interview conditions and receive personalized feedback from ex-FAANG engineers.

Additional Free Resources

• LeetCode: Extensive collection of coding problems.
• HackerRank: Practice coding challenges in various languages.
• GeeksforGeeks: Tutorials and practice problems on data structures and algorithms.
• YouTube Channels: CS Dojo, Tech With Tim, and freeCodeCamp.org offer valuable tutorials and problem-solving sessions.

Final Tips

• Stay Focused: With limited time, prioritize high-impact activities that directly contribute to your interview performance.
• Stay Calm: Maintain a positive mindset. Confidence can significantly influence your performance.
• Be Honest: If you encounter a problem you can't solve, communicate your thought process clearly and discuss how you would approach finding a solution.

Conclusion

While three days is a short period to prepare for a coding interview, a strategic and focused approach can help you cover essential areas and boost your confidence. By mastering core concepts, practicing effectively, and utilizing specialized resources like those offered by DesignGurus.io, you can enhance your readiness and improve your chances of success. Stay dedicated, manage your time wisely, and approach your interview with confidence to make a strong impression.