Most engineers dream of working with Google at some point in their life. But preparing for the Google software engineer interview takes dedicated and consistent effort. Do you also want to know what it takes to join Google as a Software Engineer? Do you want to work for your dream company? Read on to know what it takes to prepare for and crack the Google Software Engineer Interview.
Let’s Start
If you want to start preparing for the Google software engineer interview, be sure to check out our technical interview checklist, interview questions page, and salary negotiation e-book to get interview-ready! Also, read How Hard is it to Get a Job at Google and Google Interview Guide for specific insights and guidance on Google tech interviews.
Software Engineer vs. Software Developer
These two terminologies are often used interchangeably. Though there are some similarities, there are some things that make these roles different from each other. Let’s look at them in detail:
Software Engineer vs. Software Developer
Both software engineers and software developers play essential roles in the software development process. However, there are some key differences between the two positions.
| Aspect | Software Engineer | Software Developer |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Focus on the entire software development lifecycle, including design, development, testing, and maintenance. | Primarily focused on coding and implementing software applications based on the specifications provided by software engineers. |
| Responsibilities | Responsible for the overall architecture and design of software systems. | Implement and maintain software applications and features based on requirements and specifications. |
| Problem-Solving | Involved in solving complex technical challenges and optimizing system performance. | Primarily focused on coding solutions to specific problems. |
| Technical Skills | Requires strong knowledge of algorithms, data structures, and system design. | Proficient in programming languages, frameworks, and tools necessary to implement software applications. |
| Role in Development | Often involved in the planning and decision-making process of software development projects. | Typically follow the instructions and guidance provided by software engineers. |
| Education Background | Often have a formal education in computer science or related fields. | May have a formal education or gained programming skills through self-learning or coding boot camps. |
Front-End vs. Back-End vs. Full Stack Development
Front-end, back-end, and full-stack development refer to different aspects of web development. Each role has its unique set of responsibilities and skills.
| Aspect | Front-End Development | Back-End Development | Full Stack Development |
|---|---|---|---|
| Focus | Deals with the user interface and user experience of a website or web application. | Focuses on server-side logic and database interactions. | Combines both front-end and back-end development to handle all aspects of web development. |
| Technologies | Uses HTML, CSS, and JavaScript primarily. | Utilizes server-side languages such as Java, Python, or Node.js. | Requires proficiency in both front-end and back-end technologies. |
| Responsibilities | Implementing and designing the user interface, ensuring responsiveness, and optimizing performance. | Handling database management, server configuration, and application logic. | Handling both front-end and back-end tasks and ensuring seamless communication between the two. |
| Interaction | Interacts directly with users and manages the visual aspects of the application. | Works behind the scenes to handle data storage, processing, and server-side operations. | Responsible for both user-facing features and server-side functionalities. |
| Skills | Proficiency in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and front-end frameworks like React or Angular. | Strong knowledge of server-side languages, databases, and server configuration. | Requires a broad skill set encompassing both front-end and back-end technologies. |
| Project Examples | Designing the layout of a website and creating interactive user interfaces. | Setting up and managing a database, handling user authentication, and managing server resources. | Building a complete web application from start to finish, managing both client and server sides. |
Remember that roles and responsibilities can vary depending on the organization and the scope of the project. Some developers might specialize in one area, while others might take on the challenge of becoming proficient in both front-end and back-end development, making them full-stack developers.
Now that you know what a software engineer is, let’s see what a software engineer at Google does.
What Does a Google Software Engineer Do?
Working at Google is more difficult than its interviews. Preparing for the Google software engineer interview is hard too, given that the concepts to cover are vast and the competition is stiff. As a software engineer, you’ll have much more responsibilities, and you’ll work on, not limited to, the following things:
- Write code
- Write unit-tests
- Build the code
- Run Tests and debug failures
- Review peer’s code changes
- Read and write bug reports
- Debug the problems which arise in production
- Read and write design documents
Software Engineer Interview Process at Google
The Google Software Engineer interview consists of 2 main rounds of interviews:
- Initial Phone Screen
- Phone Screen with Recruiter
- Technical Phone Screen by an Engineer
- Interview With an Engineer
- Onsite Interviews
- Coding and technical skill assessments
- Informal lunch interview
Refer to Google Interview Guide for more information on preparing for the Google software engineer interview.
How to Prepare for Google Software Engineer Interview
Knowing what concepts to cover for the Google software engineering interview and dedicated practice are key to preparing for Google’s software engineering interview. Here’s what you must cover:
- Be familiar with at least one programming language and object-oriented programming concepts.
- Understand how different algorithms work and their complexities.
- Solve popular problems on hashmap, stack, queues, linked list, etc.
- Learn simple and discrete math problems like probability and statistics.
- Understand the concurrency, processes, and threads related to operating systems.
- System design questions that help you to showcase your problem-solving skills in real-world problems.
Head over to the Learn and Problem pages to brush up on your basics and practice popular coding problems.
Google Software Engineer Sample Interview Questions
Once you know what to cover, practice as many problems as you can while preparing for the Google software engineer interview. However, do make it a point to come up with an “approach” to solving problems. During the interview, you will probably face a question or problem you haven’t faced before. Therefore, while practicing, focus not only on arriving at the solution but also on “how” you solve it.
Here are a few examples of Google Software Engineer Technical Interview Questions to start you off:
- Given a Singly Linked List “K,” write a code to select a particular “random” node from the list.
- Explain the process to implement BFS and DFS in a given graph.
- Given a Binary Tree, write code to print the bottom view of the tree from left to right.
- Explain some Greedy Algorithms and their use cases.
Design-related questions are also common in the Google software engineer interview:
- Design a platform like Instagram.
- Design a typeahead prediction feature keyboard.
Behavioral questions are used to gauge your interest in the work, your soft skills, and whether you are a good fit for the company’s culture. While preparing for the Google software engineer behavioral interview, answering these questions, be genuine, and always back your answers with examples.
Here are a few Google Software Engineer Behavioral Interview Questions:
- How do you deal with an uncooperative person at your workplace?
- How do you deal with failures while working as a team?
- How do you maintain a work-life balance?
Read Google Interview Questions and Google Coding Interview Questions for more.
Amazon SDE Interview Experience | Amazon SDE interview question(Opens in a new browser tab)
Tips to Crack the Google Software Engineer Interview
Here’s a list of tips you can use while preparing for the Google software engineer interview.
- Learn the fundamentals – Get good with Data Structures and Algorithms. Also brush-up on the fundamentals of systems design.
- Practice solving coding problems using pencil and blank paper or a whiteboard and markers. You could be asked to write code on a whiteboard at the Google on-site interview.
- Create a study list of technical topics to cover. IK’s Tech Interview Checklist will help you with that.
- Begin your prep at least 8 weeks before your interview. This will give you adequate time to cover the important concepts in coding and design.
Google Software Engineer Interview FAQs
AMazon INteview Experience 2023(Opens in a new browser tab)
Q. How long are Google Software Engineer interviews?
A. The duration of each interview round can be 30-45 minutes long, depending on the round. From application to offer, the overall duration of the hiring process can range from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the seniority of the role.
Q. Will the candidate be asked only coding questions in all the interviews?
A. No. Candidates will be asked questions on various domains like technical, system design, and behavioral to test whether the candidate is a good fit in the Google workspace.
1.What is a Google interview question?
Google interview questions are questions asked by the company during their interview process to assess candidates’ technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and cultural fit.
2. Why work for Google? What are the interview questions about it?
Google is known for its global reputation, high compensation, abundant learning opportunities, and pioneering innovations. Interview questions may ask about your motivations to work for such a renowned company.
3. How to answer Google interview questions effectively?
To answer Google interview questions effectively, focus on clear and concise explanations, demonstrate problem-solving steps, and provide real-world examples.
4. What should I know about Google interview questions?
Before the interview, research Google’s products, services, and recent news. Understand the company’s culture, mission, and values to showcase your knowledge.
5. What kind of questions are asked during a Google interview?
Google interview questions cover a wide range of topics, including data structures, algorithms, system design, coding challenges, and behavioral questions.
6. How to prepare for answering “Why do you want to work for Google?” interview question?
To prepare for this question, emphasize Google’s impact on technology, culture, and innovation. Highlight your alignment with the company’s values and your passion for the role.
7. Why do Google interview questions and how to provide effective answers?
Google interview questions are designed to assess your technical abilities and problem-solving skills. To provide effective answers, be specific, demonstrate your thought process, and communicate clearly.
8. Does Google ask algorithm questions in interviews?
Yes, Google often asks algorithm questions in interviews to assess a candidate’s problem-solving abilities and understanding of data structures.
9. How does Google.com work? Are there interview questions related to it?
Google.com is a complex search engine that uses various algorithms and ranking systems to display search results. While there may not be specific interview questions on this topic, understanding the basics of search engines can be beneficial.
10. How many questions does Google ask in its interviews?
The number of questions asked in Google interviews varies based on the role and interview rounds. Generally, candidates can expect multiple technical and behavioral questions.
Please note that the actual interview questions may vary, and it’s essential to be well-prepared for a wide range of topics and scenarios.
11. How to build Google search? Are there interview questions on this topic?
Building a search engine like Google is a complex process involving web crawling, indexing, ranking algorithms, and user experience considerations. While specific interview questions may not directly focus on building Google search, understanding the fundamental concepts of search engines and information retrieval can be beneficial.
12. How to design Google Calendar? Are there interview questions about it?
Designing Google Calendar involves creating a user-friendly interface, managing events, implementing notifications, and handling synchronization across devices. While there may not be direct interview questions on designing Google Calendar, demonstrating knowledge of system design principles and scalability concepts is essential.
13. How to answer Google Analytics interview questions?
To answer Google Analytics interview questions effectively, familiarize yourself with the platform’s features, data tracking, reporting, and data analysis techniques. Highlight any experience you have in using Google Analytics to gain insights and optimize performance.
14. How to improve Google Maps’ performance? Are there interview questions related to this?
Improving Google Maps’ performance requires optimization techniques like caching, reducing server requests, and implementing efficient algorithms. While interview questions may not focus solely on this topic, discussing performance optimization strategies can showcase your problem-solving abilities.
15. How to prepare for Google interview questions?
To prepare for Google interview questions, practice coding challenges, review data structures and algorithms, study system design principles, and rehearse behavioral interview responses. Additionally, mock interviews and coding practice with peers can be helpful.
16. How to prepare for Google interview questions and answers effectively?
Prepare for Google interview questions and answers by understanding the company’s values and culture, researching the role, and practicing problem-solving scenarios. Be confident in explaining your past experiences and contributions.
17. How to solve Google’s GEstimate interview questions?
Google’s GEstimate questions are hypothetical problems that assess candidates’ estimation and problem-solving skills. To tackle these questions, break down the problem logically, make reasonable assumptions, and provide a thoughtful estimate.
18. What questions are asked in Google HR interviews?
Google HR interviews typically include behavioral questions to assess soft skills, communication, teamwork, and cultural fit. Examples include handling conflicts, adapting to changes, and managing time effectively.
19. What questions are asked during a Google technical round interview?
Google’s technical rounds may involve coding challenges, algorithm questions, and system design discussions. Expect to demonstrate your programming proficiency and problem-solving abilities.
20. What type of questions are generally asked in a Google interview?
In a Google interview, expect a mix of technical questions covering data structures, algorithms, coding, and system design, along with behavioral questions to assess soft skills and cultural fit.
21. Where can I find Google’s interview questions for preparation?
For Google interview preparation, you can find practice questions and resources on various coding websites, online forums, and mock interview platforms. Additionally, refer to books on data structures, algorithms, and system design.
22. Why are Google interview questions important for candidates?
Google interview questions are essential for candidates as they provide an opportunity to showcase their skills, problem-solving abilities, and suitability for the role and the company culture.
23. Why join Google? How do interview questions relate to this?
Candidates might be asked about their motivations to join Google during interviews to understand their alignment with the company’s mission, values, and culture.
(All information is based on research at the time of writing. NOTE :Please speak to your recruiter for more clarity.)
Land Your Dream Job as a Software Engineer at Google , Interview Kickstart can help you in preparing for the Google software engineer interview! With IK, you get the unique opportunity to learn from and engage with FAANG tech leads and hiring managers. Our comprehensive curriculum and unmatched teaching methodologies will help you become a better engineer and nail the most challenging tech interviews.