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Why Do Interviewers Focus On Data Structures and Algorithms?

Gopi Gorantala
Gopi Gorantala
1 min read

Table of Contents

Introduction

Data structures and algorithms are crucial for technical interviews as they reflect a candidate's problem-solving abilities, understanding of core principles in computer science, and capability to optimize code and handle large-scale systems. Proficiency in these areas also shows adaptability to new concepts and good communication skills.

You cannot build a software product without using a data structure. And you cannot scale a product without writing optimized code(logic/algorithm).

Why data structures and algorithms?

If you're applying for a Software Development Engineer (SDE) position, it's highly probable that you'll have to take part in a DSA round at some point.

Many companies prioritize DSA, including startups, fast-paced startups, and tech giants like FAANG (FaceBook, Amazon, Apple, Netflix, and Google). It is a crucial requirement for those who are interviewing with them. They use DSA to test your problem-solving skills. This is their way to test your coding knowledge.

Companies believe that if you are a good problem solver, you're a good coder.

Despite the introduction of new programming languages each year, the DSA skill remains unchanged.

For example, they are not interested in knowing the answer/algorithm if they give you a question. They are interested in your approach to the question and thought process. The thought process is a way to analyze a problem and come up with approaches to solve a problem.

During interviews, employers expect you to showcase your problem-solving abilities by breaking the issue into smaller parts and presenting sub-optimal solutions. They are interested in your thought process when approaching a problem.

Key-Areas

Interviewers often focus on data structures and algorithms during technical interviews for several reasons:

  1. Problem-solving skills.
  2. Core concepts
  3. Efficiency and scalability
  4. Problem-solving approach
  5. Adaptability and learning skills
  6. Technical communication

Data Structures and Algorithms

Gopi Gorantala Twitter

Gopi is an Engineering Manager with over 14 years of extensive expertise in Java-based applications. He resides in Europe and specializes in designing and scaling high-performance applications.

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