How should I prepare for a system design interview?

Start with the 8 foundational topics (consistent hashing, CAP theorem, load balancing, caching, message queues, database sharding, API design, SQL vs NoSQL). Then practice 10-15 classic design problems (URL shortener, Twitter feed, chat system, rate limiter). Use a structured framework: clarify requirements, estimate scale, draw high-level architecture, deep dive into 1-2 components, and discuss tradeoffs. Our system design section covers 160+ topics with detailed architecture walkthroughs.

What coding patterns should I know for technical interviews?

Focus on 15 core patterns: two pointers, sliding window, binary search, BFS/DFS, dynamic programming (knapsack, LCS, interval DP), backtracking, topological sort, Union-Find, monotonic stack, prefix sum, greedy, trie, heap/priority queue, and bit manipulation. Each pattern covers a family of problems. Master the pattern template first, then solve 3-5 problems per pattern. Our coding interview guides cover each pattern with templates, examples, and the most common interview problems.

Which companies have the hardest technical interviews?

Google, Meta, and quantitative trading firms (Jane Street, Two Sigma) are consistently rated among the hardest. Google emphasizes algorithm design and code quality. Meta focuses on speed -- solving 2 medium problems in 45 minutes. Amazon heavily tests behavioral questions using their Leadership Principles alongside coding and system design. Our company guides cover 25+ companies with specific interview formats, question types, and preparation strategies.

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