Common Coding Bootcamp Interview Mistakes– And How to Avoid Them

During the coding bootcamp interview process, you’ll often be asked to solve basic coding problems.  At this point, you should already have a rudimentary understanding of simple coding languages, and you’ll have written some code that works.  It’s a great feeling to hit ‘run’ and watch something happen–but remember, you’re still a beginner.

You’re going to make a few errors here and there.  It’s inevitable, and it happens to everyone. Making mistakes during your coding bootcamp interview can be frustrating.  Luckily, there are a few strategies you can use to minimize your errors.  We’ll break down two common errors and bad practices to help you prepare for getting into a coding bootcamp.

True/False Mix up

Many bootcamp applicants are presented with a Boolean logic challenge.  Boolean logic is an elementary form of algebra, but it’s easy to mess up.  In a function, Boolean logic fundamentally deals with ‘true’ or ‘false’ values.  For example, if BLUE is TRUE, than (anything but) BLUE is false. Beginners often carelessly enter a return false value in the place of return true, or vice-versa.

How to prevent this mistake:

At first glance, a Boolean logic error in a function can go undetected.  At this point, you’ll know where to place a true or false value in a function, so it can be easy to miss.  Be careful! The interview process is nerve-racking, but it’s important not to rush just to get it over with.  Double-check your true and false values and you’ll do just fine.

Inconsistent Formatting

Over time, everybody develops a unique programming style.  You’re new to this, so you probably jump all over the place in terms of syntax.  Many errors occur when you don’t write consistently. A patchy writing style decreases the accuracy of anything you write after the initial code.  Consistent writing is vital to maintaining the clarity of your coding project, and it’ll make your life easier. Inconsistent writing leads to confusion.  For example, an inconsistent indentation can cause you to lose your place in the code, or mix up entire sections. It’s just a mess!

How to prevent this mistake:

Take lots of notes.  When you’re first starting out, take notes in the code, on paper, and with your head.  Look at some examples of similar code to see how other people structure their projects.  Pay attention to details, and keep track of your habits. If you do something differently, it’s not necessarily wrong– just make sure you do it consistently.

Practice, Practice, Practice.

Coding bootcamp interviewers expect you to make mistakes, but it’s always good to polish off your skills to minimize errors.  Attention to detail is critical, but you’ll never get anywhere without practice and effort. Career Karma can help you prepare for your interview so that you’ll be ready for anything that admissions decides to throw at you.

Practice frequently, and don’t get frustrated when errors occur. If you get frustrated over everything, it may be a sign of coding bootcamp burnout. Errors will happen, and part of a developer’s job is to find and fix them.  If you can handle solving these problems consistently, you’ll set yourself up for success in coding bootcamp.  Keep an eye out for details and organize your work, you’ll do just fine.

Remember, it’s okay to make mistakes.  You’re new to this, and coding bootcamps don’t expect you to perform perfectly right away.  However, it never hurts to stand out in a good way. People remember when you do well, so practice these tips to ace your coding bootcamp interview and get started on the right track.