A personal computer is quite useless if you do not have software that provides a user interface and lets you do your work on it. This is where software developers come in – they develop computer applications that end users need which may include environments that they can work in and even entertainment platforms.
A software developer will need at least a bachelor’s degree in computer sciences to be able to bag his dream job as this work is anyone’s cup of tea. Rigorous training in different programming languages is needed before an individual can write good code.
Anyone who would want to apply for this position will need to ensure that he or she is ready to answer questions that he or she may be bombarded with at the interview. The following list of sample questions will give you an idea of what you might encounter during an interview for this position. Yes! We provide possible answers too! Have a look:
Software Developer Interview Questions and Answers
What is the original essence of working as a software developer?
The main idea behind working as s software developer is to design, implement, test and maintain software systems to help businesses provide excellent service and be efficient.
What are your qualifications for this position?
Apart from holding a master’s degree in software development, I possess over eight years of experience reviewing present systems and providing proposals for improvement. Additionally, I am proficient in developing and testing new software in controlled environments, and also managing systems once they are up and running.
Do you believe that it is essential to be a people person to work as a software developer?
I believe that it is. Software developers hardly ever work alone – they have to work closely with analysts, designers and other software developers on a daily basis, so it is important for them to be good with people.
What is your modus operandi for ensuring implementation and continuation of quality software?
Where quality is concerned, I am a stickler for perfection. Testing newly developed software several times before it is implemented, making sure that constant checks are placed at each stage, troubleshooting issues along the way, and performing advanced debugging activities are just some of the things I do to ensure quality control.
What is your experience with writing user manuals?
I have worked extensively with technical writers to provide assistance and support for each software that I develop. Not only that, but I have had quite some experience writing manuals by myself as well!
Do you think it’s best for a developer to write the corresponding manual?
I believe that every professional has his niche. Since technical writers are trained in creating technical manuals, it is best to let them do it, while providing support. When working with a technical writer isn’t an option, well, who knows the software better than the person who developed it!
What made you decide that you want to take up a career as a software developer?
Software development is a fascinating part of modern technology. A little term of computer classes back in high school made me realize that I was great with two things – computers and technology. Software development was the right path to take if I wanted to gratify my skills.
How do you ensure your code’s safety and speed?
The first thing I do is a program for security. Once I have done that, and I feel that the program is slow, I try to figure out where the bottleneck may be and then try to find out how I may improve its complexity.
How would you describe the process you use for writing code from inception to delivery?
Inception – unit test – code – run tests – commit – run tests – deploy
How do you ensure that the code you write can manage different kinds of error situations?
Writing code that describes the expected error situation is what I do initially. At the later stage, working with try/catch is more prudent.
Explain TDD
TDD stands for Test-Driven Development. It is a procedure where you write a code that fails. You then write code to make the test pass and then change the code to improve the design.
Which tools do you use for monitoring a product during its maintenance stage?
I use mostly logs and profiling tools depending on the situation.
Do you feel that maintenance is the biggest and the most expensive part of an application’s lifecycle? Why?
Yes, I do. The reason is simple. A system may be built in a few weeks but is in production for months afterward during which many things change. Defects are found, and new regulations are placed due to which features may be added or modified. Hence, the expense and the time.
What are your long-term career plans?
Eventually, I would like to move into systems design; once I have perfected my skills in software development.