Zomato x Blinkit Interview Experience for SDE-I | On-Campus 2024

I recently went through the interview process for the Software Development Engineer - 1 (SDE-1) position at Zomato x Blinkit. The following is an account of my experience,...

I recently went through the interview process for the Software Development Engineer - 1 (SDE-1) position at Zomato x Blinkit . The following is an account of my experience, which I hope will provide useful insights for other candidates preparing for similar interviews. Online Assessment The interview process began with an online assessment on the HackerRank platform. Here are the key details: Duration: 90 minutes Participants: 220 candidates Format: 20 MCQs on core Computer Science subjects (OS, Computer Networks, DSA, OOPs, DBMS) 3 coding questions (topics: graphs, dynamic programming, strings)

Outcome 18 candidates, including myself, were shortlisted for the

next round.

Round 1 Technical Interview This round was comprehensive, covering various technical aspects: Project Discussion : The interviewer began by asking about projects from my resume. Machine Learning : Explained the RAG (Retrieval-Augmented Generation) pipeline Discussed how neural networks work and their training process Explained the functioning of a neuron in a neural network Elaborated on embedding models like Word2Vec and how they utilize neural networks DevOps and

System Design Docker containerization Kubernetes: its necessity and functioning Redis: scaling capabilities Load balancing Consistent hashing Computer Networks : DNS functioning TCP vs UDP DSA : Problem: Maximal Square Implemented the solution on paper Discussed edge cases and optimizations Key Strategy : I used illustrations and diagrams to explain concepts, which seemed to impress the interviewer.

Outcome 8 candidates, including myself, advanced to the

next round.

Round 2 Advanced Technical Interview This round focused on practical implementation and

system design Project Overview: The interviewer briefly reviewed all my projects. Backend Implementation: Task: Implement backend request logic in Golang Focus: Optimizing using Golang's concurrency model (goroutines and channels) Additional scenarios: Implementing timeout and handling edge cases

System Design Task: Design a rate limiter Challenges: Handling edge cases and optimizing memory usage To demonstrate my continuous learning : Showcased my GitHub profile with 60+ repositories Presented my Notion website tracking daily DSA problem-solving

Outcome 3 candidates, including myself, were selected for the final round.

Round 3 HR Interview The final round was an HR interview focused on cultural fit: Questions asked : Why do you want to join Zomato? What are your weaknesses? This round was designed to assess how well I would fit into Zomato's work culture and team dynamics. Final Outcome Finally 3 students were given the offer including me. Tips for Future Candidates Prepare Thoroughly: Cover a wide range of topics, including core CS subjects, DSA, and system design. Practice

Coding Focus on implementing solutions efficiently and handling edge cases. Showcase Projects: Be ready to explain your projects in detail and their technical challenges. Visual Explanations: Use diagrams and illustrations to explain complex concepts clearly. Continuous Learning: Demonstrate your passion for learning through personal projects and consistent practice. Stay Calm: The process can be challenging, but stay composed and think through problems step-by-step. Prepare for HR Questions: Be ready to articulate your motivations, strengths, and areas for improvement. Resources that helped me: DSA: GFG DSA , Striver's A2Z sheet , Neetcode 150

System Design GFG System Design Tutorial , Takeuforward System Design Roadmap , Gaurav Sen System Design Playlist CS Fundamentals: GFG Articles , OS lectures by Mythili Vutukuru , Codehelp channel by Love Babbar