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Mia Minnes,
Leo Porter,
and
Christine Alvarado
You’ve hit a major milestone as a computer scientist and are becoming a capable programmer. You now know how to solve problems, write algorithms, and analyze solutions; and you have a wealth of tools (like data structures) at your disposal. You may now be ready for an internship or (possibly) an entry-level software engineering job. But can you land the internship/job? It depends in part on how well you can solve new technical problems and communicate during interviews. How can you get better at this? Practice!
Read more
You’ve hit a major milestone as a computer scientist and are becoming a capable programmer. You now know how to solve problems, write algorithms, and analyze solutions; and you have a wealth of tools (like data structures) at your disposal. You may now be ready for an internship or (possibly) an entry-level software engineering job. But can you land the internship/job? It depends in part on how well you can solve new technical problems and communicate during interviews. How can you get better at this? Practice!
Read more
You’ve hit a major milestone as a computer scientist and are becoming a capable programmer. You now know how to solve problems, write algorithms, and analyze solutions; and you have a wealth of tools (like data structures) at your disposal. You may now be ready for an internship or (possibly) an entry-level software engineering job. But can you land the internship/job? It depends in part on how well you can solve new technical problems and communicate during interviews. How can you get better at this? Practice!
With the support of Google’s recruiting and engineering teams we’ve provided tips, examples, and practice opportunities in this course that may help you with a number of tech companies. We’ll assist you to organize into teams to practice. Lastly, we’ll give you basic job search advice, and tips for succeeding once you’re on the job.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/bt65aa/mastering
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What's inside
Syllabus
Welcome & What is a Software Engineering Interview?
Welcome to our course on effectively communicating your technical abilities. This course focuses on landing a technical job and excelling in a technical role. To succeed in job interviews, you’ll need to be able to confidently articulate your ability to solve challenging problems and come up with new solutions under potentially stressful conditions. After getting a technical job, the role of communication increases even more. You’ll need to work with other members of the team, communicate technical challenges and successes, and potentially sell the value of your work to those outside the company. Our goal is that by the end of this course each and every one of you understands the importance of technical communication, and has received constructive feedback on areas of potential improvement. In achieving this goal you will also learn about algorithmic thinking on the fly, how to evaluate a good interview answer to a difficult technical problem, and how “soft” skills impact interview outcomes. In this module, we’ll begin to see what a technical interview looks like, from the perspective of a major tech company. We’ll then focus on how to best get the interview in the first place. If you're not in the job market right now, you might want to skim the videos in this module and skip ahead to the Resume Critique (for insights about how to present yourself in writing) or the Introductions assignment (on effectively presenting yourself in person).
Read more
Syllabus
Welcome & What is a Software Engineering Interview?
Welcome to our course on effectively communicating your technical abilities. This course focuses on landing a technical job and excelling in a technical role. To succeed in job interviews, you’ll need to be able to confidently articulate your ability to solve challenging problems and come up with new solutions under potentially stressful conditions. After getting a technical job, the role of communication increases even more. You’ll need to work with other members of the team, communicate technical challenges and successes, and potentially sell the value of your work to those outside the company. Our goal is that by the end of this course each and every one of you understands the importance of technical communication, and has received constructive feedback on areas of potential improvement. In achieving this goal you will also learn about algorithmic thinking on the fly, how to evaluate a good interview answer to a difficult technical problem, and how “soft” skills impact interview outcomes. In this module, we’ll begin to see what a technical interview looks like, from the perspective of a major tech company. We’ll then focus on how to best get the interview in the first place. If you're not in the job market right now, you might want to skim the videos in this module and skip ahead to the Resume Critique (for insights about how to present yourself in writing) or the Introductions assignment (on effectively presenting yourself in person).
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Develops technical communication skills, namely soft skills that are essential for on-the-job success
Examines different types of technical interview questions, including behavioral, whiteboard, and phone interviews
Teaches the STAR method for presenting work experience and problem-solving skills in a clear and concise manner
Develops skills in algorithmic thinking and live problem-solving using a systematic approach
Taught by instructors from Google, providing insights and practical tips from industry experts
Emphasizes the importance of job search strategies and interview preparation, providing a holistic approach to career development
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Reviews summary
Mastering the software engineering interview
According to learners, this course is a highly valuable resource for preparing for software engineering interviews. Students praise its structured approach and the way it covers essential aspects of the interview process, including live coding, algorithmic problem-solving, and explaining past projects using the STAR method. Many found the practice opportunities and peer review system particularly helpful for gaining confidence and receiving constructive feedback. While some noted the intensity of the material or the difficulty of certain assignments, the overwhelming sentiment is that the course provides a solid foundation and practical skills directly applicable to landing a technical job, making it a worthwhile investment.
Effective technique for explaining projects.
"The STAR method was a game-changer for structuring my project descriptions."
"It gave me a clear framework for discussing my past work experiences."
"Now I feel much more confident talking about my projects in behavioral interviews."
"Learned how to highlight my contributions and results using the STAR format."
Hands-on practice and review system helpful.
"The practice assignments and peer review system were invaluable for getting feedback."
"Reviewing others' work and getting reviews on mine was very insightful."
"This interactive component truly enhanced the learning experience and built confidence."
"The mock interview practice helped me identify areas for improvement."
Strong focus on coding and problem-solving.
"The sections on live coding and algorithmic thinking were particularly useful."
"Gained practical experience with challenging problems often seen in interviews."
"The 6-step process for algorithmic problems was incredibly helpful."
"Improved my ability to code under pressure during simulated interviews."
Covers key aspects of the tech interview.
"This course was a very valuable resource for preparing for software engineering interviews."
"I really appreciated the structured way the course broke down the different parts of a technical interview."
"It provided a clear roadmap for tackling various interview challenges."
"Learned how to handle live coding and explain technical concepts effectively."
Requires significant time and effort.
"This course is challenging and demands a significant time commitment."
"Be prepared for a lot of practice and detailed assignments."
"It's not a lightweight course; you need to put in the work."
"Some assignments felt quite intensive and took longer than expected."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Mastering the Software Engineering Interview with these
activities:
Review basics of algorithms
Show steps
Refresh your understanding of basic algorithms and data structures to prepare for the course.
Browse courses on
Algorithms
Show steps
-
Review notes or textbooks from previous courses.
-
Solve practice problems on sites like LeetCode or HackerRank.
Review Cracking the Coding Interview
Show steps
Read this classic book to gain insights into coding interviews and practice your problem-solving skills.
View
Cracking the Coding Interview: 189 Programming...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read through the chapters on algorithms and data structures.
-
Solve the practice problems at the end of each chapter.
Organize course materials
Show steps
Get organized for the course by compiling all materials in one place.
Show steps
-
Create a folder or notebook for all course materials.
-
Gather and organize notes, assignments, quizzes, and exams.
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Attend study sessions
Show steps
Join study sessions with peers to discuss course topics and practice problem-solving.
Show steps
-
Find a study group or organize one with classmates.
-
Meet regularly to discuss course material and work on assignments together.
Practice coding live
Show steps
Improve your coding skills by practicing live coding.
Show steps
-
Find a coding partner or join a study group.
-
Practice coding problems together and discuss solutions.
-
Use online platforms like CodinGame or HackerEarth for live coding challenges.
Attend coding workshops
Show steps
Attend workshops related to the course topics to gain practical experience and learn from experts.
Show steps
-
Find coding workshops offered by universities, companies, or online platforms.
-
Register for workshops that align with your interests and learning goals.
-
Attend the workshops and actively participate in the activities.
Develop a personal portfolio
Show steps
Create a portfolio of your technical projects to showcase your skills to potential employers.
Show steps
-
Gather your best coding projects.
-
Create a website or online portfolio to showcase your projects.
-
Include a resume, cover letter, and any other relevant materials.
Create a technical blog
Show steps
Write blog posts about technical topics to solidify your understanding and share your knowledge.
Show steps
-
Choose a topic related to the course material.
-
Research and write a detailed blog post on the topic.
-
Share your blog post with others and get feedback.
Participate in coding competitions
Show steps
Challenge yourself and test your skills by participating in coding competitions.
Show steps
-
Find coding competitions on platforms like Codeforces, HackerRank, or LeetCode.
-
Register for the competitions and compete against other participants.
-
Analyze your performance and identify areas for improvement.
Review basics of algorithms
Show steps
Refresh your understanding of basic algorithms and data structures to prepare for the course.
Browse courses on
Algorithms
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review notes or textbooks from previous courses.
- Solve practice problems on sites like LeetCode or HackerRank.
Review Cracking the Coding Interview
Show steps
Read this classic book to gain insights into coding interviews and practice your problem-solving skills.
View
Cracking the Coding Interview: 189 Programming...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read through the chapters on algorithms and data structures.
- Solve the practice problems at the end of each chapter.
Organize course materials
Show steps
Get organized for the course by compiling all materials in one place.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Create a folder or notebook for all course materials.
- Gather and organize notes, assignments, quizzes, and exams.
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Attend study sessions
Show steps
Join study sessions with peers to discuss course topics and practice problem-solving.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a study group or organize one with classmates.
- Meet regularly to discuss course material and work on assignments together.
Practice coding live
Show steps
Improve your coding skills by practicing live coding.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a coding partner or join a study group.
- Practice coding problems together and discuss solutions.
- Use online platforms like CodinGame or HackerEarth for live coding challenges.
Attend coding workshops
Show steps
Attend workshops related to the course topics to gain practical experience and learn from experts.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find coding workshops offered by universities, companies, or online platforms.
- Register for workshops that align with your interests and learning goals.
- Attend the workshops and actively participate in the activities.
Develop a personal portfolio
Show steps
Create a portfolio of your technical projects to showcase your skills to potential employers.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather your best coding projects.
- Create a website or online portfolio to showcase your projects.
- Include a resume, cover letter, and any other relevant materials.
Create a technical blog
Show steps
Write blog posts about technical topics to solidify your understanding and share your knowledge.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a topic related to the course material.
- Research and write a detailed blog post on the topic.
- Share your blog post with others and get feedback.
Participate in coding competitions
Show steps
Challenge yourself and test your skills by participating in coding competitions.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find coding competitions on platforms like Codeforces, HackerRank, or LeetCode.
- Register for the competitions and compete against other participants.
- Analyze your performance and identify areas for improvement.
Career center
Learners who complete Mastering the Software Engineering Interview will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Software Engineer
Software Engineer
Software Engineers design, develop, test, and deploy computer software. This course may be useful to a Software Engineer by teaching how to articulate problem-solving skills and solutions under stressful conditions. An understanding of algorithmic thinking, whiteboard problem-solving, and communication strategies are also covered in this course and can be helpful to a Software Engineer.
Web Developer
Web Developer
Web Developers use programming languages and markup to create websites. A course that focuses on solving technical problems and communicating solutions may assist a Web Developer in improving how they approach building and designing websites. This course also provides practice in coding on the fly which can be helpful when debugging and resolving issues on a website.
Computer Programmer
Computer Programmer
Computer Programmers write and test code that allows computer applications and software programs to run. This course may be useful to a Computer Programmer by providing practice in analyzing solutions and coding on the fly. The course also covers how to effectively communicate technical abilities, which can be useful when working with other programmers and stakeholders.
Systems Analyst
Systems Analyst
Systems Analysts study an organization's current business processes to define their needs. This course can be helpful for Systems Analysts by providing practice in analyzing problems and developing solutions. The course also covers different methods for presenting solutions, which can be useful when working with stakeholders.
Database Administrator
Database Administrator
Database Administrators maintain and administer databases, ensuring that they are running efficiently and securely. This course can be helpful for Database Administrators by providing practice in analyzing problems and developing solutions. The course also covers effective communication methods, which can be helpful in communicating with stakeholders about database issues.
Network Administrator
Network Administrator
Network Administrators maintain and administer computer networks, ensuring that they are running efficiently and securely. This course may be useful for a Network Administrator by providing practice in analyzing problems and developing solutions. The course also covers effective communication strategies, which can be useful in communicating with stakeholders about technical issues.
Quality Assurance Analyst
Quality Assurance Analyst
Quality Assurance Analysts test software to identify defects and ensure that it meets quality standards. This course can be helpful to a Quality Assurance Analyst by providing practice in analyzing problems and developing solutions. The course also covers effective communication strategies, which can be useful in communicating with stakeholders about software defects.
Technical Writer
Technical Writer
Technical Writers create instruction manuals, technical reports, and other documentation to explain complex technical information. This course can be useful for a Technical Writer by providing practice in analyzing problems, developing solutions, and communicating technical information effectively. The course also covers algorithmic thinking, which can be helpful in understanding the technical concepts that need to be explained.
Information Security Analyst
Information Security Analyst
Information Security Analysts plan and implement security measures to protect an organization's computer systems and networks. This course can be helpful for an Information Security Analyst by providing practice in analyzing problems and developing solutions. The course also covers effective communication strategies, which can be helpful when working with stakeholders to implement security measures.
Data Scientist
Data Scientist
Data Scientists use scientific methods, processes, algorithms, and systems to extract knowledge and insights from data in various forms, both structured and unstructured. This course can be helpful for a Data Scientist by providing practice in analyzing problems, developing solutions, and communicating technical information effectively. The course also covers algorithmic thinking, which can be helpful in understanding the data analysis techniques that need to be used.
Software Architect
Software Architect
Software Architects design, build, and maintain the overall architecture of software systems. This course can be helpful for a Software Architect by providing practice in analyzing problems, developing solutions, and communicating technical information effectively. The course also covers algorithmic thinking, which can be helpful in understanding the design principles that need to be used.
Computer Systems Analyst
Computer Systems Analyst
Computer Systems Analysts study an organization's current business processes to define their needs and design and implement computer systems to meet those needs. This course can be helpful for a Computer Systems Analyst by providing practice in analyzing problems, developing solutions, and communicating technical information effectively. The course also covers algorithmic thinking, which can be helpful in understanding the system design techniques that need to be used.
IT Project Manager
IT Project Manager
IT Project Managers plan, execute, and close IT projects. This course can be helpful for an IT Project Manager by providing practice in analyzing problems, developing solutions, and communicating technical information effectively. The course also covers effective communication strategies, which can be useful in communicating with stakeholders about project progress and issues.
Database Manager
Database Manager
Database Managers plan, implement, and maintain database systems to ensure that they are running efficiently and securely. This course can be helpful for a Database Manager by providing practice in analyzing problems, developing solutions, and communicating technical information effectively. The course also covers algorithmic thinking, which can be helpful in understanding the database design techniques that need to be used.
Information Systems Manager
Information Systems Manager
Information Systems Managers plan, implement, and maintain information systems to ensure that they are meeting the needs of the organization. This course can be helpful for an Information Systems Manager by providing practice in analyzing problems, developing solutions, and communicating technical information effectively. The course also covers effective communication strategies, which can be useful in communicating with stakeholders about information systems needs and issues.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/bt65aa/mastering
Reading list
We've selected 39 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Mastering the Software Engineering Interview.
Classic guide to preparing for coding interviews, and it is highly recommended for anyone who is serious about getting a job as a software engineer.
This classic interview prep book provides hundreds of practice problems organized by difficulty level. The solutions are explained in detail and cover a wide range of topics, making it a valuable companion for anyone preparing for software engineering interviews.
Save
Is another great resource for preparing for coding interviews. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic data structures and algorithms to more advanced concepts like system design.
Classic textbook on computer programming. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic programming concepts to advanced programming techniques. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to improve their understanding of computer programming.
Provides a structured approach to solving interview problems. It covers common algorithms, data structures, and design patterns, and includes practice problems and detailed solutions.
Save
Classic textbook on algorithms. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic data structures and algorithms to more advanced concepts like graph theory and dynamic programming.
Guide to test-driven development. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic test-driven development principles to advanced test-driven development techniques. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to improve their software testing skills.
Is another classic textbook on algorithms. It is more comprehensive than Algorithms, and it covers a wider range of topics.
Classic guide to algorithm design. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic data structures to advanced algorithms. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about algorithm design.
Comprehensive guide to data structures and algorithms in Java. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic data structures to advanced algorithms. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about data structures and algorithms in Java.
Comprehensive guide to data structures and algorithms in Java. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic data structures to advanced graph algorithms. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to improve their understanding of data structures and algorithms in Java.
Save
This classic textbook provides a comprehensive overview of algorithms and data structures. It valuable reference for software engineers who want to strengthen their understanding of fundamental computer science concepts.
Classic guide to software development. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic principles to more advanced concepts like refactoring and testing.
Save
Classic guide to writing clean code.
Classic textbook on object-oriented design and analysis. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic object-oriented concepts to advanced design patterns. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to improve their understanding of object-oriented design and analysis.
Collection of practical advice on software development best practices. It covers topics such as coding, debugging, testing, and working in teams, and valuable read for software engineers of all levels.
Classic textbook on algorithms. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic data structures to advanced graph algorithms. It valuable reference for anyone who wants to improve their understanding of algorithms.
Save
Provides guidelines for writing clean and maintainable code. It covers topics such as naming conventions, code organization, and refactoring.
Save
Classic guide to software engineering. It covers a wide range of topics, from project management to testing.
Save
This classic book introduces design patterns, which are reusable solutions to common software design problems. It valuable reference for software engineers who want to improve the quality and maintainability of their code.
Save
Classic guide to software project management.
Provides a code of conduct for professional programmers. It covers topics such as software design, coding standards, and testing. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about professional software development.
Save
Beginner-friendly introduction to Java programming. It great choice for students or self-learners who want to get started with software development.
Classic guide to user experience design.
This massive three-volume work comprehensive reference on algorithms and data structures. It valuable resource for software engineers who want to delve into the theoretical foundations of computer science.
Classic guide to web design.
This classic book explores the challenges and complexities of software development. It must-read for software engineers who want to understand the human and organizational factors that affect software projects.
Classic guide to lean software development.
Save
This comprehensive book covers all aspects of software development, from requirements gathering to testing and deployment. It valuable resource for software engineers who want to improve the quality and efficiency of their work.
Classic guide to innovation.
Classic guide to entrepreneurship.
Provides a gentle introduction to design patterns. It covers the basics of design patterns, from creational patterns to structural patterns to behavioral patterns. It valuable resource for anyone who is new to design patterns.
Introduces domain-driven design, a software development approach that focuses on modeling the domain of the problem being solved. It valuable resource for software engineers who want to design complex software systems that are easy to understand and maintain.
Classic guide to startup leadership.
Save
Novel about DevOps.
Save
Novel about the future of software development.
Provides practical advice on using Java 8 effectively. It covers topics such as lambdas, streams, and functional programming, and valuable resource for software engineers who want to take advantage of the latest features of Java.
Provides practical advice on developing concurrent and multithreaded applications in Java. It covers topics such as thread synchronization, lock-free programming, and performance optimization.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of effective Java programming. It covers a wide range of topics, from object-oriented programming to concurrency to generics. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about effective Java programming.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/bt65aa/mastering
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Effort
4 weeks of study, 2-4 hours/week
Level
Intermediate
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of California San Diego
Instructors
Mia Minnes
Leo Porter
Christine Alvarado
Language
English
Transcripts
Español
Français
Português
Deutsch
Italiano
中文
العربية
한국어
日本語
हिंदी
Nederlands
Svenska
Pусский
Türkçe
Polski
Ελληνικά
українська мова
magyar nyelv
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ไทย
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اُردُو,
فارسی
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tiếng Việt
پښتو
آذربایجان دیلی
This course belongs to a
collection
called
Object Oriented Java Programming: Data Structures and Beyond. It's comprised of six courses:
- Data Structures and Performance
- Object Oriented Programming in Java
- Capstone: Analyzing (Social) Network Data
- Mastering the Software Engineering Interview (viewing)
- Advanced Data Structures in Java
- Viral Marketing and How to Craft Contagious Content
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