Q1
Design a REST API endpoint for retrieving user data with pagination, filtering, and caching considerations. Walk me through your architectural decisions and trade-offs.
Why they ask this:* Evaluates understanding of API design principles, scalability, performance optimization, and real-world constraints that mid-level engineers encounter daily.
Q2
Explain the difference between SQL and NoSQL databases. When would you choose one over the other, and describe a situation where you made this decision in a past project.
Why they ask this:* Assesses knowledge of data storage technologies and the ability to make informed architectural choices based on specific use cases and requirements.
Q3
You have a function with O(n²) time complexity that's causing performance issues in production. Walk me through your debugging process and how you would optimize it.
Why they ask this:* Tests practical problem-solving skills, proficiency with algorithm analysis, and experience handling real performance bottlenecks in production systems.
Q4
Describe how you would implement unit tests and integration tests for a microservice. What testing frameworks or tools have you used, and why?