Software Engineer · Onsite · Multiple Types

LinkedIn — Software Engineer ❌ Failed

Level: Mid-Level

Round: Onsite · Type: Multiple Types · Difficulty: 7/10 · Duration: 300 min · Interviewer: Unfriendly

Topics: Backtracking, Priority Queue, Behavioral Questions, isMalicious API

Location: Mountain View, CA

Interview date: 2026-01-20

Got offer: False

Summary

Round 1: Phone Screen

Question: I was given a string of words and a numerical string, and had to find which words could be formed from the numbers. I used backtracking, then optimized.

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Round 2: Virtual Onsite - System Design

Question: I had to design an isMalicious API. The interviewer was helpful, and I just had to clearly explain the simple concepts.

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Round 3: Virtual Onsite - Coding

Question: I had to implement a priority queue. I was nervous because it was my first time facing such a question. The interviewer seemed inexperienced. I found the bug relatively quickly.

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Round 4: Virtual Onsite - Coding

Question: Unspecified coding problem. The interviewer was unhelpful and seemed to be trying to show off.

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Round 5: Virtual Onsite - Behavioral (BQ)

Question: I was asked to describe my previous projects and answer standard behavioral questions.

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Details

Preparation Tips & Key Takeaways

What I Learned

• I need to practice under pressure to avoid getting flustered during coding rounds.
• It's important to clearly articulate simple concepts in system design interviews.

Recommended Preparation

Coding Practice

• Practice backtracking and priority queue implementations.
• Focus on optimizing backtracking solutions.

System Design

• Review common API design patterns.
• Be prepared to explain fundamental concepts clearly.

Behavioral Questions

• Prepare STAR stories for projects and common behavioral scenarios.
• Practice articulating my project experience.

Resources I Recommend

• LeetCode for coding practice.
• System design interview preparation materials.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Don't panic when faced with a complex coding problem for the first time.
• Stay calm and focused even when the interviewer is unhelpful.

LeetCode similar: LeetCode 617, LeetCode 366