Common Interview Questions
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• What is a dataset in machine learning?
A collection of data used to train and test a model, typically split into training and testing sets.
• What’s the purpose of a try-catch block?
To handle errors gracefully—try runs code, catch handles any errors that occur.
• What is an API, and why is it useful?
Application Programming Interface; it allows different software systems to communicate with each other.
• What’s the difference between SQL and NoSQL databases?
SQL databases are relational with structured data (e.g., MySQL); NoSQL databases are non-relational, handling unstructured data (e.g., MongoDB).
• What does HTTP stand for, and what’s its role?
HyperText Transfer Protocol; it’s used to transfer data between a client and server on the web.
• What is a loop in programming?
A structure that repeats a block of code until a condition is met, like a for or while loop.
• What’s the difference between IaaS and PaaS?
IaaS provides infrastructure (e.g., servers); PaaS provides platforms (e.g., app development tools).
• What’s a smart contract?
A self-executing contract with terms coded on a blockchain.
• How do you handle an angry customer?
Listen actively, empathize, and offer a solution calmly.
• What’s a bottleneck in a supply chain?
A point of congestion that slows down the entire process.
• What’s the difference between revenue and profit?
Revenue is total income; profit is revenue minus expenses.
• What’s the purpose of an exit interview?
To gather feedback from departing employees for improvement.
• How do you handle a customer objection about price?
Highlight the product’s value and offer flexible payment options.
• What’s the importance of user personas in design?
They help understand user needs and guide design decisions.
• How do you prioritize features in a product roadmap?
Based on customer needs, business goals, and resource availability.
• What’s a phishing attack?
A scam where attackers trick users into sharing sensitive information.
• What’s the difference between mean and median?
Mean is the average; median is the middle value when ordered.
• What’s bias in a machine learning model?
Systematic error due to overly simplistic assumptions in the model.
• What’s the purpose of a subnet mask in networking?
It separates the network and host portions of an IP address.
• What’s a key metric for email marketing success?
Open rate, typically around 20-30% for a good campaign.
• What’s the difference between let and const in JavaScript?
let allows reassignment, while const does not; both are block-scoped.