Round 1: DS/Algo
Questions:
- Prefix sum problem similar to LeetCode 238.
- A matrix DP Hard question (4D DP problem).
Candidate's Approach
- For the prefix sum problem, I provided an optimized approach and coded it within 10 minutes.
- For the matrix DP problem, I initially explained a recursive approach but was prompted to justify why a greedy approach wouldn't work. After some discussion, I proceeded with the recursive solution and managed to solve it in the last 15 minutes.
Interviewer's Feedback
The interviewer seemed satisfied with my performance on the prefix sum problem but noted that my approach to the matrix DP problem needed improvement.
Round 2: DS/Algo
Questions:
- A standard LeetCode Medium two-pointer problem related to intervals.
- A range-based problem, a standard segment tree question.
Candidate's Approach
- I quickly solved the two-pointer problem.
- For the segment tree question, I utilized square root decomposition as an alternative approach, writing clean code with edge case handling.
Interviewer's Feedback
The interviewer seemed satisfied with my approach and solutions.
Round 3: Hiring Manager
Questions:
- Design an OTT platform like Netflix or Prime Video.
Candidate's Approach
- I started with requirement gathering, both functional and non-functional, and performed capacity estimation.
- The interview was interactive, focusing on personalized feeds and streaming methods, including a debate on push vs. pull CDN approaches.
Interviewer's Feedback
This was my best round, and the Hiring Manager expressed strong interest in my design approach.
Round 4: Bar Raiser
Questions:
- A standard LeetCode Medium/Hard backtracking question.
- A LeetCode Medium/Hard question similar to the Word Ladder problem.
Candidate's Approach
- I solved the backtracking question quickly in 15-20 minutes and explained it using a dry run.
- For the Word Ladder problem, I coded the solution in 20-25 minutes, also providing a dry run.
Interviewer's Feedback
The interviewer grilled me on LP problems for 15-20 minutes but seemed satisfied with my answers in the end.