Coding interviews can feel like a memory test—until you treat them like what they really are: a structured problem-solving conversation. Here’s a repeatable framework you can use for almost any question (arrays, strings, graphs, DP… you name it) to stay calm, communicate clearly, and earn points even when you don’t finish.

1) Clarify the problem like an engineer

Before you write code, spend 60–120 seconds locking down assumptions. This prevents rework and shows maturity.

Ask about:

• Inputs/outputs: data types, ranges, constraints
• Edge cases: empty input, duplicates, negatives, overflow
• Performance targets: expected time/space complexity
• Examples: ask the interviewer for one, then create one yourself

Tip: Repeat the problem back in your own words. Interviewers love this because it verifies alignment.

2) Make your thinking visible (without rambling)

Interviewers score the process, not just the final code. Aim for short, deliberate checkpoints:

• State a baseline approach (even if it’s O(n²))
• Identify bottlenecks: “The nested loop is the issue.”
• Propose an optimization: “We can trade space for time with a hash map.”

Mini-script:

1. “Brute force would be…”
2. “That’s too slow because…”
3. “Instead, we can…”

3) Write code that’s easy to trust

When you start coding, prioritize correctness and clarity over cleverness.

Best practices that raise your score:

• Use meaningful variable names (left, right, freq, visited)
• Write helper functions if it reduces cognitive load
• Speak while you type: “Now I’m updating the frequency map…”
• Handle edge cases early (guard clauses)

Tip: If you get stuck, narrate what you’re trying to achieve and ask: “Would you like me to proceed with this approach?” It keeps the interview collaborative.

4) Test like you mean it

Don’t just run the happy path. Do quick, high-signal tests out loud:

• Smallest case: empty / single element
• Tricky case: duplicates, ties, repeated characters
• Large case reasoning: confirm complexity and memory

A powerful close:

• “Time is O(n) because each pointer moves at most n times.”
• “Space is O(k) for the map of unique elements.”

Common traps (and how to avoid them)

• Jumping into code too early → Clarify constraints first
• Silence while thinking → Use short checkpoints (“I’m considering two options…”)
• Over-optimizing immediately → Start simple, then improve

Try this next practice session

Pick a random problem and force yourself to follow the four steps. You’ll build the habit that carries into real interviews.

What’s the hardest part for you in coding interviews right now: clarifying, choosing the approach, coding cleanly, or testing under pressure?