If you’ve got a coding assessment coming up, it’s natural to feel a little nervous. Whatever your reason for taking the assessment (like applying for a new job or completing a bootcamp), there may be a lot at stake for you! That’s why we made this checklist for you to review before you sit down to take the assessment. Knowing you’ve got these items covered will help you feel confident and prepared.
- Have you taken a practice assessment? This will help you get acquainted with the CodeSignal IDE and know what to expect. Here’s a link to a CodeSignal practice assessment. You can check out our guide to preparing for a technical interview.
- Do you know what language you’ll be coding in? Are you a Java, Python, or C++ person? Since many platforms allow you to code in the language of your choice, you should pick the one you’re most comfortable with, keeping in mind that you might be able to write code faster in a less verbose language. And don’t forget to brush up on the syntax and standard library functions so you don’t have to spend time looking things up on the fly.Â
- Do you have quick access to documentation? Speaking of looking things up, did you know that most platforms (including CodeSignal) allow you to access the internet during the assessment? If you’re taking a Pre-Screen assessment on CodeSignal, you’re permitted to search for syntax-related questions online.
- Do you have a time management strategy? As most assessments are timed, you may want to move on if you find yourself spending too long on one part. CodeSignal’s General Coding Framework, for example, has four tasks to complete within 70 minutes. Consider, as well, that the tasks are likely to be varying levels of difficulty. Therefore, it may make sense to come back to a tough question later after solving the others first.
- Have you eliminated all distractions? You want to be in the zone during your assessment and experiencing that coding flow state. It’s a good idea to close any extraneous apps and windows, silence your notifications, and let housemates know not to disturb you. Also, this might seem obvious, but low battery life has a way of sneaking up on us at the worst times — so make sure your computer is plugged in!
- Did you get a good night’s sleep? Unsurprisingly, studies have shown that getting more than seven hours of sleep is associated with up to 10% better performance on tests. You most likely have some flexibility around when you can take the assessment. Use that to your advantage, and choose a time when you’re feeling rested and alert.
- Are you doing something to celebrate? You put a lot of hard work into this! We’re rooting for you. Do something to relax and reward yourself when the assessment is done.
Good luck, and remember that with the CodeSignal General Coding Framework, you aren’t locked into your score forever — you can retake the test later if you didn’t do your best.Â
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