Last time we tackled technical problem-solving exercises. Now let's explore role-playing scenarios - where CS interviews become interactive simulations and you're both the engineer and the professional being evaluated.
These exercises test how naturally you perform technical leadership duties while being observed closely.
Engagement Message
Have you ever been asked to role-play in a CS interview? If yes, what was the scenario? If not, what technical scenario do you think they might give you?
Role-playing scenarios feel strange because you're simulating while being authentic. You might conduct a code review, lead an architecture discussion, or handle a production incident.
The interviewer wants to see your real engineering behavior, not just hear about it.
Engagement Message
What feels trickier - describing how you'd handle a technical situation or actually demonstrating it?
Here's the central tension: you must stay genuine while knowing every word and technical decision is being evaluated. Over-performing looks artificial, but under-performing misses the point.
The sweet spot is being your professional engineering self, just slightly more polished.
Engagement Message
When observed in technical discussions, do you amp up or hold back? Name one tweak that would move you closer to the sweet spot.
Common scenarios include: code review discussions, mentoring junior developers, system design presentations, or debugging production issues. Each tests different technical leadership and communication skills.
They're designed to reveal how you actually behave under technical pressure, not just what you claim.
Engagement Message
Which of these scenarios - code reviews, mentoring, system presentations, or debugging - challenges you most?
Success comes from preparation without memorization. Know your core engineering principles but stay flexible. If they throw you a curveball technical scenario, rely on your natural problem-solving instincts.
