Coding interviews assess problem-solving and communication, not just getting the right answer. Succeeding involves a clear approach (understand, plan, code, test), communicating throughout, and handling the problem methodically.
A structured approach
1. UNDERSTAND the problem → clarify requirements, ask questions, confirm inputs/outputs,
edge cases (don't jump straight to coding)
2. PLAN → think through an approach; discuss it BEFORE coding; consider complexity/trade-offs
3. CODE → implement cleanly; explain as you go; write readable code
4. TEST → walk through with examples (incl. edge cases); find and fix bugs
→ a methodical approach shows engineering thinking (what they're really assessing).
