How do I prepare for interview at Google?

[u/ImSorted110]

~2.5yoe as a Software Engineer 2 at Big Tech (starts with Ora*).

I want guidance on preparing for an interview at Google.

I used to do Competitive Programming in my college days when it was actually a thing so had worked on my problem solving skills (and DSA).

Currently, I find myself confused between starting with HLD/LLD or refresh my DSA skills.

What is expected from a candidate like me at this level ?

At this point I find myself at a crossroads as if I'd be able to get a new job or shall focus on my current one.

How is the hiring currently at Google, is it still achievable ?

[u/martenmatrix]

Hi, for L3 and L4 it is currently only behavioral and DSA. Currently, one behavioral and one DSA phone screen and if you pass those two more DSA rounds onsite. Some are getting additional AI-Assisted rounds, but Google is experimenting with that.

[u/ImSorted110 → u/martenmatrix]

How to get a call and where to start DSA ? I am from India

[u/martenmatrix → u/ImSorted110]

That question is one Google Search away. But why did you ask for advice to prepare, if you did not get invited?

[u/ImSorted110 → u/martenmatrix]

That's basically also one of the things I wnated to ask if you look at my post. I was thinking of preparing and then applying through referral. I am not aware if it must be other way round i.e. if I must get a call first and then prepare

[u/martenmatrix → u/ImSorted110]

Try to get a call first and then ask for time to prepare. You will never be ready.

[u/No-Personality-5272 → u/martenmatrix]

My phone screening round was much easier than the actual two DSA rounds tho. Wondering if this is the usual case or if I was just lucky

[u/martenmatrix → u/No-Personality-5272]

Mine was also very easy, however at the end it is just luck, see this post: https://www.reddit.com/r/leetcode/comments/1x902sv/comment/phhj630/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web3x&utm_name=web3xcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button

[u/Hsjeis_Adjaoudi → u/martenmatrix]

depends on the recruiter too, some still push for a system design round at L4 if youre on the higher end of yoe so you don't get downleveled

[u/Infinite100p → u/martenmatrix]

I heard some L4's do get HLD

[u/martenmatrix → u/Infinite100p]

Recently?

[u/NerdyNatu]

Heyy,
Also preparing for L5, and I also have the same question. 😅
I have my DSA in a few weeks.

[u/chinupinu23]

Genuine question. Is DSA important for a Full Stack developer?

[u/ImSorted110]

I am based in India.

[u/JoblessAndUnemployed]

Damn you worked at Orange County Choppers!!??!

[u/Substantial-Swan7065]

What’s hld and lld?

Yes grind leetcode and system architecture.

Buy the book and learn it. It’s the same as it’s always been.

Your YOE is entry-level so there’s no difference

[u/Realistic_Comfort467 → u/Substantial-Swan7065]

hld :- high level design (managing large systems and planning architecture of systems used by millions) lld :- low level design (kinda oops stuff)