I just completed a challenging assessment for a fintech startup where I applied for an entry-level software engineering position. The assessment lasted an hour and a half and involved three problems: building the logic for a React tic-tac-toe game, creating a weather dashboard that takes user input and displays weather information from mock data, and parsing messages from websockets (though I don't remember this one well). I struggled to solve any of the problems, even though I knew the theory behind them. I particularly choked on a handleClick function due to an unknown error. Since the session was recorded, I couldn't consult Google or reference my previous work on GitHub. I'm looking for advice on how to move forward after this disappointing experience. I'm considering practicing the problems I couldn't solve and going back to the basics of problem-solving. I'm hesitant to ask AI for help as I feel that reliance may have contributed to my struggles this time.
4 Answers
I totally get how frustrating that must be. Just a heads up, that no-tabbing-out rule seems strict. Did they clarify that? I mean, everyone gets stuck from time to time, and it doesn't mean you don't have the skills. If you know the theory, keep practicing! You'll get there.
Wow, an hour and a half for all that sounds intense. It’s great you at least managed to start on the playerTurn state! I know it feels discouraging now, but not every coding challenge goes the way you expect. Consider reviewing each part slowly and practicing the parts you got stuck on—like logging that event in your handleClick. Breaking it down like that can help you see where it went wrong!
I feel for you; that timeline sounds harsh for all those tasks. Were you able to explain your thought process at least? I’ve heard that many interviewers understand that coding under pressure is difficult. I usually take notes during interviews to help remember what I want to say later, and if I stumble, I just revisit it on my own. Honestly, you could also record the session if the technology allows it, just to reflect and improve!
It sounds like a tough experience, but honestly, it might be a blessing in disguise. You dodged a bullet by not getting that role if the interview process was so rigid. As for moving forward, definitely check out Leetcode or Neetcode. Start practicing from the easy problems and work your way up. Also, I've heard great things about the book 'Cracking the Coding Interview'—it could give you some valuable insights!
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