How to prepare for software engineering interview reddit?

Preparing for a software engineering interview by leveraging insights from Reddit can be highly effective, as the platform offers a wealth of firsthand experiences and tips from candidates who have been through similar processes. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to prepare for such interviews, based on advice often shared on Reddit:

1. Master Data Structures and Algorithms

The majority of software engineering interviews, particularly at companies like Uber, Google, and Amazon, focus on solving problems related to data structures and algorithms.

Key Resources Suggested on Reddit:

• LeetCode: One of the most commonly recommended platforms for practicing coding problems. Focus on arrays, linked lists, dynamic programming, trees, and graphs. Aim to solve medium to hard problems.
• Grokking the Coding Interview: Reddit users often highlight this course for learning pattern-based problem-solving.
• Cracking the Coding Interview (book): Another go-to resource for building a solid foundation.

2. System Design Questions

For more experienced roles or senior positions, system design interviews are key. These require knowledge of how to design scalable, reliable systems.

Suggested Resources:

• Grokking the System Design Interview: This is highly recommended by Reddit users for those preparing for system design questions, offering clear guidance on how to approach different problems.
• System Design Primer: An open-source repository on GitHub that is frequently cited by Reddit users as a comprehensive resource for system design.
• Mock Interviews: Many Redditors recommend practicing system design questions with peers or via mock interviews on platforms like Pramp.

3. Behavioral Interviews

Behavioral questions are important to demonstrate your cultural fit and how you work under pressure. Redditors recommend the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for structuring answers to behavioral questions.

Common Topics:

• Leadership experiences.
• Handling conflicts or difficult situations.
• Examples of working on large-scale projects.

4. Mock Interviews and Peer Practice

Many Reddit threads stress the importance of mock interviews to simulate the real interview experience. Platforms like Pramp and DesignGurus.io allow you to practice with peers and receive feedback.

5. Review Company-Specific Insights

Reddit offers specific insights into interviews at different companies. For example, you can search for "Uber interview experience" or "Google interview Reddit" to find detailed experiences, common questions, and advice tailored to specific companies.

6. General Tips from Reddit

• Consistent Practice: Don’t cram right before the interview. Redditors recommend solving at least 2-3 coding problems daily in the weeks leading up to your interview.
• Time Management: Practice solving coding problems within a limited time to simulate interview conditions.
• Know the Basics: Brush up on foundational computer science concepts, including Big-O notation, memory management, and threading.

By combining resources like LeetCode, Grokking the Coding Interview, and feedback from mock interviews, you can comprehensively prepare for software engineering interviews. You can explore more detailed advice and personal experiences on subreddits like r/cscareerquestions and r/leetcode.