This question gives you an idea as to the candidate’s likes and dislikes, the type of programmer they are and what quirks they express. It is also a good way to gauge their overall knowledge when it comes to programming by having them choose only two to highlight, giving you an idea as to what they see as an accomplishment based on which languages they choose. What to look for in an answer:

• Depth of knowledge in the field
• Versatility in skill-set and learning
• Articulation in how they explain things and reasoning ability

This question gives you an idea as to how much of a team player a candidate may be. In a company setting, programmers will often need to work collaboratively for many reasons. Having someone who can adapt to and work with another’s style of programming is a real plus. Asking for examples of times they did this can also be beneficial. What to look for in an answer:

• Willingness to work well with others
• Adaptability and eagerness to learn new things
• General personality and how agreeable they are

Learning the frequency with which a candidate uses their skills can give you an idea as to where they stand within their current employment. It also gives you a look at how dedicated they are to their work as those who aren’t programming frequently are likely not as invested in the field as they could be. This is their chance to talk about various projects they’re currently working on. What to look for in an answer:

• Passions projects outside of work
• Dedication to their job and to programming as a whole
• Positions they’re most comfortable working

Correcting mistakes is important as is being able to use problem solving skills to figure out why something is wrong in the first place. Asking what a potential 3457157software engineer7.14computer engineer5.01computer science4.87it3.0software2.5111591499823000.00100385.61231000.00YEARLY15734352025-10-012025-10-312025-09-012025-09-302025-11-05computer engineer sees as most important when it comes to proofing code tells you what values they hold highest. Phrasing the question as checking over someone else’s work also gives further insight into a candidate’s willingness to work with others as equals. What to look for in an answer:

• Humility and ability to admit mistakes
• Willingness to work together
• Attentiveness and ability to use problem solving in practical settings

This question allows you to learn more about the candidate’s routines and what they’re most comfortable using now. Asking them to justify that decision will give you an idea as to whether they feel comfortable expanding their horizons. Additionally, listening to them talk about their choice of OS can also be a valuable opportunity to see what they value in that OS and their reasoning for why. What to look for in an answer:

• Level of technological adaptability
• Whether they mesh with the company standard
• Reasoning ability and how easily they can explain concepts

Computer engineers should be accurate coders. An employer uses this question to find out if a candidate can add value to the accuracy of company's computer infrastructure and products. An ideal 3457157software engineer7.14computer engineer5.01computer science4.87it3.0software2.5111591499823000.00100385.61231000.00YEARLY15734352025-10-012025-10-312025-09-012025-09-302025-11-05computer engineer candidate has a preventative system that eliminates or reduces coding errors.

A candidate's answer should emphasize:

• System for reducing coding errors
• Experience in leveraging technology to avoid mistakes
• Self-starter personality trait

An example answer to this question can look like this: