The hiring process for roles such as Software Development
Engineer 1 (SDE1) or similar positions, including software internships and
Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) roles at top tech companies like
Microsoft, Check Point, Amazon, Amdocs, and others, may involve a Codility
test, referred to as the Online Assessment (OA), as the initial step.
This implies that each applicant will be competing with
hundreds, or even thousands, of programmers, all vying for the opportunity to
be hired. Effective preparation for this test is crucial, given the abundance
of irrelevant information available. To stand out among other candidates, it is
essential to have a clear understanding of what to expect on the Codility test
and to be fully equipped to tackle its challenges.
Our comprehensive preparation course is designed for this
purpose and provides the tools to:
- Practice
relevant coding questions based on real Software Development
Engineer interview experiences.
- Thoroughly
grasp data structures and algorithms to proficiently solve any coding
problem, encompassing 312 coding questions and simulations covering
Arrays, Linked Lists, and more.
- Learn
strategies to avoid leaving any questions unanswered.
- Monitor
your solving time with our question timer and engage in
time-limited coding simulations.
- Code
using the same programming language as the actual Codility test.
- Practice all questions and solutions in your preferred language: C++, Java, Python, or JavaScript.
The Codility Test Preparation Course is a one-stop solution for those seeking
to acquire all the tools needed to be fully prepared and succeed in the Online
Assessment.
This page covers everything about the Codility test, including
preparation strategies, and tips
for successfully passing it.
Let's delve into the details.
What is a Codility test?
Codility serves as an online coding platform used by various
tech companies, including Microsoft, Check Point, Amdocs, and others, for
conducting Online Assessments. This automated coding test is subsequently
reviewed by a professional. Typically, candidates are presented with three
questions to be solved within 60-90 minutes.
The Online Assessment, also known as the Online Technical
Screen (OTS), constitutes one of the initial stages in the hiring process,
often involving a Codility interview, a phone interview, or a combination of
both.
What is the passing score for the Codility test?
Your code undergoes automatic grading based on its
efficiency with all possible inputs:
- 100%:
Automatic Pass
- 60%
ior below: Automatic Reject
- 60%-100%:
Code needs to be reviewed.
During the review process, your code is evaluated for its
optimality and your comprehension of the solution.
What questions will you encounter on the Codility test?
Technical interview questions generally assess fundamental
algorithm and data structure knowledge. The Codility test may include:
- Debugging
Questions
- Coding
questions requiring the implementation of data structures and algorithms
(e.g., Strings, Binary Trees)
- Multiple
Choice Questions (MCQ), for example: "How many comparisons do you
need to find the minimum value in a 5-element array?" Answer:
(n-1)(4)
You may also be queried on computer subjects like:
- Operating
systems
- Database
Management Systems (DBMS)
- Computer
Networks
Common question topics on the Codility Test include
Arrays/Strings (most frequent), Linked lists, Binary trees, Search/Sort,
Dynamic programming, and Bit manipulation. While covering all these topics may
seem extensive, practicing the most common questions will significantly save
you time and effort.
What programming languages will you use on Codility?
You have the option to choose your preferred programming
language before commencing the test. Similarly, using the Prep Course, you can
start practicing the language you are most comfortable coding in (C++, Java,
Python, or JavaScript).
Is the Codility test challenging?
The difficulty level of the Codility test varies based on
the company you are interviewing for, your level of experience, and the
specific role you are applying for.
The main challenges in the Codility Test include working
under time pressure and the inability to directly communicate your thought
process to the interviewer.
Due to these challenges, many individuals end up with blank
answers, leading to failure in the code review.
How to effectively prepare and pass the Codility test?
Master time Management to avoid unfinished questions
Navigating through all coding questions within stringent
time constraints can be challenging and, at times, impractical to devise
optimal solutions for every query. Learning strategies can ensure there aren’t
any questions left unanswered due to time limitations.
Optimize your coding speed
Recognize and work on improving your coding speed.
Understanding your own pace allows you to efficiently manage your time during
the actual Codility test. Engage in timed Online Assessment (OA) simulations to
familiarize yourself with coding under time pressure and reduce stress in the
real test environment.
Thoroughly Grasp Data Structures and Algorithms
Gain a comprehensive understanding of data structures and
algorithms. Practice extensively on commonly asked question topics such as
Arrays, Linked Lists, Binary Trees, Search/Sort, and more. This preparation
ensures you are ready to tackle any type of question that may arise in the
test.
Approach New Problems More Efficiently
Enhance your problem-solving skills by practicing numerous
questions with complete solutions. This will help you:
- Pose
essential clarification questions when faced with a new problem.
- Explore
different and alternative solutions for the same problem.
- Approach
new problems with greater ease and confidence.
Explore the Benefits of Our Comprehensive Prep Course
Our dedicated preparation pack is designed to be your guide
to success. By enrolling in our prep course, you gain access to an
extensive set of resources covering all question types encountered on the
Codility test.
Here's what the preparation pack includes:
- 312
Data Structure and Algorithms Questions with Full Solutions: A
thorough exploration of essential topics, encompassing Arrays, Linked
Lists, Binary Trees, Search/Sort, Dynamic programming, and Bit
manipulation.
- Four
Programming Languages: Practices of your choice, whether it’s
C++, Java, Python, or JavaScript, to enhance your coding proficiency.
- Possible
Hints for Each Question: Valuable hints to guide you through the
problem-solving process.
- Video
Explanations on Key Topics: Access to video explanations that delve
into crucial concepts and questions.
- Reading
Material and MCQ-Based Quizzes: Strengthen your understanding of
core computer subjects with comprehensive reading materials and
multiple-choice quizzes on operating systems, DBMS, and networking.
- Time
Recorder for Each Question: Effectively manage your time with a
dedicated time recorder for every question, allowing you to track your
solving time.
- Ten
Coding Assessments: 10 coding assessments that simulate the
Codility test, providing valuable practice in a contest-like format.
- Four
Simulations of On-Site Virtual Rounds (Mock Tests): Realistic
on-site virtual rounds through four mock tests based on actual interview
experiences.
All these resources are conveniently accessible on our
online coding platform, providing you a one-stop solution for Codility test
preparation.
Essential tips for a successful online assessment
Articulate your thought process
It is crucial to convey your reasoning and provide
comments during the Online Assessment (OA). Here are some tips to improve your
communication:
- Verbally
express your thought process while solving each coding problem.
- Use
clear and formal coding concept names in your comments.
- Create
explanations using logical sequences.
Pose clarification questions
When tackling a problem, consider initiating the process by
asking relevant (but not excessive) clarification questions. If questioning
isn't possible, no worries. Document your queries in comments, accompanied by
the necessary adjustments for each case’s scenario.
Explain code efficiency
Demonstrate your comprehensive understanding of the solution
by commenting on your code's time and space complexity, as well as its
advantages and limitations.
Get familiarized with Codility
Take the Codility demo test to become familiar with the
coding platform and alleviate stress during the actual Codility test. Keep in
mind that Codility questions may vary from one company to another.
Common FAQs about the Codility test
Which companies incorporate the Codility test in their hiring process?
The Codility test is a component of the hiring process for
roles like SDE1 in companies such as Microsoft, Check Point, Matrix, Amdocs, HP
Indigo, and Facebook.
How do I access the Codility test?
1-2 days before the scheduled interview, a link to the
Codility test will be provided. You can open the link to read the instructions;
it’s important to mention that it’s not mandatory to initiate the test at this
stage.
Do I need to turn on my camera during the Codility test?
Typically, Codility requires you to activate your camera.
Ensure that you are dressed appropriately, and if you’re contemplating any form
of cheating, it's advisable to reconsider it.
Can I use Google during the Codility test?
You are allowed to use websites and books unless explicitly
directed otherwise by the recruiter.
What happens when I click "start the test"?
Once initiated, the timer cannot be halted. Your code is
automatically saved throughout the test, even if you close and reopen the
browser window.
Is the Codility test recorded?
Codility usually records the entire history and encompasses
runs and corrections. Imperfections are not a drawback; they provide insights
into your problem-solving approach for the reviewer.
Can I revisit and modify my code?
After completing a coding task, clicking "submit"
restricts the ability to go back and make changes to your code.