Q1
Explain the difference between SQL and NoSQL databases, and provide an example of when you would use each in a web application.
Why they ask this:* They want to assess your understanding of fundamental database concepts and your ability to make architectural decisions based on use cases.
Q2
Walk me through how you would debug a production bug where a REST API endpoint is returning a 500 error intermittently.
Why they ask this:* They're evaluating your troubleshooting methodology, familiarity with debugging tools, and ability to approach problems systematically.
Q3
What is the time complexity of a binary search algorithm, and why is it more efficient than linear search for sorted data?
Why they ask this:* This tests your grasp of fundamental algorithms and computational complexity—critical for writing scalable code.
Q4
Describe the MVC (Model-View-Controller) architecture and how it applies to a framework you've learned (e.g., Django, Spring, or Express.js).