Using Online Resources During Online Coding Interviews: Strategies and Considerations

During an online coding interview, the rules regarding the use of the internet or referencing past work can vary significantly from one company to another. Understanding these rules and knowing how to navigate through the interview process effectively is crucial for both candidates and hiring managers. This article explores whether and how online resources can be utilized during coding interviews, providing insights and best practices for both parties involved.

Common Interview Policies and Expectations

In most online coding interviews, candidates are not allowed to use the internet to look up documentation or reference past programs. The primary objective of coding interviews is to assess a candidate's problem-solving skills, coding abilities, and how they handle challenges in real-time. Relying on external resources typically goes against the rules and reflects poorly on the candidate’s ability to work independently.

However, some companies do provide collaborative coding environments with built-in documentation or allow access to specified resources. It is crucial to clarify the rules with the interviewer before the interview begins. Candidates should always be prepared to solve problems using their knowledge and skills without external assistance to ensure a fair and accurate assessment.

Considering Real-Time Problem Solving

Interviewers often test a candidate's ability to think and reason in real-time, without external help. If a candidate frequently pauses or wanders off topic, it could indicate a lack of immediate understanding and may lead to an early termination of the interview. Similarly, pasting solutions from external sources will be evident and will result in failure. Coding interviews are akin to an open-book test where the resources don't significantly aid in problem-solving.

Company-Specific Conditions

It's important to check the specific conditions set by the hiring company. Some companies may allow the use of online resources, while others may prohibit it. Additionally, many online coding platforms like Codility, Evalart, and others track the time spent outside the test, such as when a candidate navigates to another tab to search for answers. This can affect the evaluation based on the hiring party's criteria.

Resources and Research Skills

While many interviewers allow the use of online resources, they often come with limitations. Asking prospects well in advance about the allowed resources is advisable. As an employer, it is recommended to allow candidates to use the resources they would typically use in their work environment. This approach helps in understanding how candidates apply their research skills to find the necessary information quickly.

A great software developer should excel not only in writing code but also in knowing when to create their own algorithms and when to leverage existing frameworks and libraries for efficiency. Expecting a candidate to know everything from memory doesn't provide a complete picture of their real-life problem-solving capabilities. Instead, it assesses their ability to memorize information, which is not as reflective of their practical skills.

Strategies for Candidates and Interviewers

Candidates: Prepare thoroughly by reviewing key concepts, algorithms, and common coding scenarios. Familiarize yourself with the tools and platforms you might use in the interview. Clarify the rules regarding resource use before the interview and be transparent about your approach to problem-solving.

Interviewers: Clearly communicate the interview rules and expectations to candidates. Provide a balanced assessment by observing how candidates navigate problem-solving in real-time and their ability to leverage resources effectively. This approach offers a more accurate evaluation of a candidate's skills and potential.

Ultimately, the goal of online coding interviews is to assess both technical and practical skills in a realistic, albeit controlled, environment. Understanding the rules and utilizing resources appropriately can help ensure a more accurate and fair evaluation process.