You’re preparing for an algorithms job interview. What skills should you highlight?

1 Algorithmic Thinking

One of the most important skills that you need to demonstrate in your algorithms interview is algorithmic thinking, which is the ability to break down a complex problem into smaller and simpler steps, and to use logic and reasoning to find a solution. Algorithmic thinking helps you to identify the inputs and outputs of the problem, the constraints and assumptions, and the possible approaches and trade-offs. You can practice algorithmic thinking by solving various algorithmic problems online, such as on platforms like LeetCode, HackerRank, or Codewars. You can also use techniques like pseudocode, flowcharts, or diagrams to help you visualize and structure your algorithmic thinking.

2 Data Structures and Algorithms

Another essential skill that you need to show in your algorithms interview is your familiarity with common data structures and algorithms, and how to use them appropriately for different problems. Data structures are ways of organizing and storing data, such as arrays, lists, stacks, queues, trees, graphs, hash tables, etc. Algorithms are steps or rules for performing a specific task, such as sorting, searching, traversing, etc. You should know the advantages and disadvantages of different data structures and algorithms, and how they affect the time and space complexity of your solution. You should also be able to implement them in your preferred programming language, using proper syntax and style. You can review the basics of data structures and algorithms from books, courses, or websites, and practice coding them from memory or with minimal reference.

3 Time and Space Complexity

A third skill that you need to display in your algorithms interview is your understanding of time and space complexity, which are measures of how efficient your solution is in terms of running time and memory usage. Time complexity is the number of operations or steps that your algorithm takes as a function of the input size, and space complexity is the amount of memory that your algorithm allocates as a function of the input size. You should be able to estimate the time and space complexity of your solution using the big O notation, which expresses the worst-case or upper bound of the complexity. You should also be able to compare the complexity of different solutions, and explain why you chose a certain solution over another. You can learn more about time and space complexity from books, courses, or websites, and practice analyzing them for different problems and solutions.

4 Problem Solving Skills

A fourth skill that you need to exhibit in your algorithms interview is your problem solving skills, which are the ability to tackle challenging and unfamiliar problems, and to adapt and improvise when faced with difficulties. Problem solving skills involve being creative, flexible, and resilient, and using strategies like brainstorming, testing, debugging, or optimizing. You should be able to handle edge cases, errors, and exceptions, and to modify or improve your solution if needed. You should also be able to handle different types of problems, such as conceptual, mathematical, or practical. You can enhance your problem solving skills by exposing yourself to diverse and complex problems, and by challenging yourself to find multiple or alternative solutions.

5 Communication Skills

A fifth skill that you need to demonstrate in your algorithms interview is your communication skills, which are the ability to express your thoughts and ideas clearly and effectively, and to listen and respond to feedback. Communication skills involve being articulate, concise, and confident, and using appropriate language and terminology. You should be able to explain your algorithmic thinking, data structures and algorithms, time and space complexity, and problem solving skills to your interviewer, using verbal, written, or visual methods. You should also be able to ask clarifying questions, answer questions, and justify your decisions. You can improve your communication skills by practicing with a partner, a mentor, or a mock interviewer, and by getting feedback on your presentation and delivery.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?