How to crack python programming interview questions?

 

Python is one of the most popular programming languages today. There’s a high demand for Python developers, and with the language ranking as the third most-used language by developers as of 2021, applicants should expect fierce competition. Getting an interview is an achievement already, but you’re still a couple of interviews away from landing a job. If you seek to stand out, we’ve got a tip or two to help you out.

Sharpen your Python knowledge

Review everything about Python algorithms and data structures. One of the best ways to practice solving algorithm problems is by writing code, running it, and learning from feedback. As for data structures, make sure you can confidently do the following:

• Make a comparison between simple data structures and abstract ones.
• Explain how you will enforce features of a stack via pre-existing data structures.
• Demonstrate familiarity with basic data structures like lists, dictionaries, and tuples.

Online Judges such as LeetCode and Sphere Online Judge are some of the best coding platforms where you can answer questions and sharpen up your Python knowledge and skills. LeetCode, in particular, presents questions that are most similar to interview questions. With enough time practicing on these platforms, you might actually see questions that you will encounter in the actual interview.

Revise Basic

The foundation of any successful Python developer is mastery of the basics. And while advanced skills and knowledge raise your value, it will all fall apart if you don’t have solid fundamentals. Prior to your python questions for interview, it’s worthwhile to go through your college notes once more. This review goes hand in hand with your practice in LeetCode.

Learn how to code on paper

In a Python developer interview, you need to demonstrate your mastery over the programming language through confidence, and among the best ways to do that is by writing code on paper, a whiteboard, or anything besides a computer. You should be able to create loops, control flow models, and other constructs without a problem. If your interviewer gives you access to a computer, there is no problem. But more likely than not, you will have to code without it, which is only possible if you’ve mastered the basics.

Present your favorite projects

A Python developer can have a large portfolio of projects, but what will make them stand out is the ability to demonstrate these projects. Be it a simple or complex project, being able to show the ins and outs of your work is an excellent way of showing recruiters that you can write code. Picking one of your favorite projects or any project you enjoyed working on is advisable. To make your presentation easier, host the project/s you want to demonstrate on a public repository like GitHub and BitBucket.

Learn more about front-end development

If you’re not well-versed in front-end development, take the time to get familiar with it. Before the interview, allocate time to studying HTML5, CSS3, and JavaScript. Doing so will equip you with the knowledge you need to work with the front-end team in making sure the server and client are synchronized. Arguably, being knowledgeable in front-end development is not necessary for Python developers, but it will undoubtedly give you an edge over your peers.

Diversify your tech know-how

No recruiter will ask you to become the master of all technology, but just as being familiar with front-end development will elevate you as a developer, being privy to the basics of other technologies, especially those adjacent to programming, will separate you from the crowd. Besides, diversifying your skills and knowledge is always recommended practice in achieving job security.

When hiring full-time Python developers, or even when hiring freelance developers, recruiters take note of candidates with sufficient knowledge of other technologies, as this shows that they’re willing to keep learning and that they’re capable of doing so. Some relevant technologies you want to get a good grasp of are the following:

• JavaScript (JS) – even the simplest web programming in Python will require basic JS. There are Python-to-JavaScript transpilers, but these can restrict JS features, limiting what you can do as a developer. Learning basic JS lets you get your foot into web development.

• Java – Python is considered a “scripting language”, whereas Java is considered an “industrial-strength language”. Java is better suited for projects involving plenty of people, which means learning it, even just the basics, will greatly diversify your skills as a developer.

Exhibit your problem-solving and analytical skills.

It goes without saying that problem-solving and analytical skills are must-haves for any job out there, but for Python developers, these two skills need more emphasis. Having outstanding Python coding skills is one thing, but knowing how to apply that skill in creating solutions is entirely different. The ability to deeply understand a problem, formulate a solution, and turn it into code is another thing that will help you shine brighter than others.

That being said, you won’t be given programming-related problems in your interview, so you have to capitalize on every opportunity where you can demonstrate your problem-solving ability. Spot relevant questions and make sure your answers reflect your analytical mind.

Know the company

When applying for a Python developer job, it’s crucial that you study the company that’s hiring. Approximately 47% of applicants fail their interviews because they had insufficient knowledge of the company they’re trying to work for. Researching a company before heading to the python interview questions and answers for freshers helps you in a number of ways:

• It shows you’re really interested in getting the job
• You’ll learn the company’s culture, mission, and values
• It allows you to think of more substantial inquiries
• You’ll know if you’ll fit nicely with the company sooner than later
• You’ll find it easier to align yourself with the organization

Researching a company won’t take much of your time. Depending on the company, everything you need to know about them can be easily found online. Considering the edge it’ll give you in the interview, it’s definitely worth the effort.

Set a good first impression

You don’t need to burst into the interview room like a rockstar, but you do need to make sure you give a good first impression, regardless if it’s a face-to-face or a virtual interview.

Be punctual

This one’s a no-brainer, but even if you’re aware that you need to arrive early or on time, sometimes things that are beyond your control happen, and everything goes south. However, there are things you can do to minimize the risk of being late:

1. Leave earlier if your interview is scheduled during peak traffic hours. Having that time allowance can make the difference between arriving on time or being half an hour late.

2. Plan your route to the venue ahead of time. If you’re not familiar with the place, it could be worthwhile to do a test trip to the venue to make sure you take the fastest route available and avoid getting lost on the day of the interview. Refer to your phone’s GPS or online maps.

Dress appropriately

But what is the dress code for Python developers anyway? Well, there is no signature Python developer look, but you should wear clean and wrinkle-free clothes that fit you well. And most of all, don’t wear just a shirt, regardless of how clean and ironed out it is. A good practice is to wear attire that is one or two levels nicer than what employees usually wear. Of course, if their employees are already wearing suits on a daily basis, there’s no need to wear anything fancier.

Bring only the essentials

An easy way to ruin your interview questions for python developer is by bringing unnecessary items. If you’re fond of chewing gum, don’t bring any. It’s distracting and unprofessional. Bringing a mobile phone is also not advisable. You can argue that it’s a versatile tool that can help you, but if it’s not necessary for anything you will do in the interview, just don’t bring it. Even if you turn it off or leave it on silent, it’s likely to distract you from what matters.

What do Python developers do?

Python developers are in charge of coding, designing, deploying, and debugging projects, usually on the back-end or server-side. However, their duties can stretch wider depending on what the company needs. They can also be tasked with assisting companies with their technological framework.

How much do Python developers get paid?

In the USA, the average salary for entry-level Python developers is $65,000 a year or $30.7 per hour; $82,000 a year for mid-level developers; $114,000 a year for experienced developers. Meanwhile, Python developer salary in India averages ₹3,89,427per year.

Conclusion

To wrap it up, cracking your python interview questions and answers primarily relies on two things: practice and preparation. Practice your coding skills and review everything you know about Python. Prepare well for the interview to set a good first impression. To stand out, diversify your knowledge and make sure to demonstrate your problem-solving skills. While this is not a be-all and end-all of succeeding in your interview, it should serve well as a guide.