basic problem solving question

15 Common Problem-Solving Interview Questions

In an interview for a big tech company, I was asked if I’d ever resolved a fight — and the exact way I went about handling it. I felt blindsided, and I stammered my way through an excuse of an answer.

It’s a familiar scenario to fellow technical job seekers — and one that risks leaving a sour taste in our mouths. As candidate experience becomes an increasingly critical component of the hiring process, recruiters need to ensure the problem-solving interview questions they prepare don’t dissuade talent in the first place.

Interview questions designed to gauge a candidate’s problem-solving skills are more often than not challenging and vague. Assessing a multifaceted skill like problem solving is tricky — a good problem solver owns the full solution and result, researches well, solves creatively and takes action proactively.

It’s hard to establish an effective way to measure such a skill. But it’s not impossible.

We recommend taking an informed and prepared approach to testing candidates’ problem-solving skills . With that in mind, here’s a list of a few common problem-solving interview questions, the science behind them — and how you can go about administering your own problem-solving questions with the unique challenges of your organization in mind.

Key Takeaways for Effective Problem-Solving Interview Questions

Problem solving lies at the heart of programming.
Testing a candidate’s problem-solving skills goes beyond the IDE. Problem-solving interview questions should test both technical skills and soft skills.
STAR, SOAR and PREP are methods a candidate can use to answer some non-technical problem-solving interview questions.
Generic problem-solving interview questions go a long way in gauging a candidate’s fit. But you can go one step further by customizing them according to your company’s service, product, vision, and culture.

Technical Problem-Solving Interview Question Examples

Evaluating a candidates’ problem-solving skills while using coding challenges might seem intimidating. The secret is that coding challenges test many things at the same time — like the candidate’s knowledge of data structures and algorithms, clean code practices, and proficiency in specific programming languages, to name a few examples.

Problem solving itself might at first seem like it’s taking a back seat. But technical problem solving lies at the heart of programming, and most coding questions are designed to test a candidate’s problem-solving abilities.

Here are a few examples of technical problem-solving questions:

1. Mini-Max Sum

This well-known challenge, which asks the interviewee to find the maximum and minimum sum among an array of given numbers, is based on a basic but important programming concept called sorting, as well as integer overflow. It tests the candidate’s observational skills, and the answer should elicit a logical, ad-hoc solution.

2. Organizing Containers of Balls

This problem tests the candidate’s knowledge of a variety of programming concepts, like 2D arrays, sorting and iteration. Organizing colored balls in containers based on various conditions is a common question asked in competitive examinations and job interviews, because it’s an effective way to test multiple facets of a candidate’s problem-solving skills.

3. Build a Palindrome

This is a tough problem to crack, and the candidate’s knowledge of concepts like strings and dynamic programming plays a significant role in solving this challenge. This problem-solving example tests the candidate’s ability to think on their feet as well as their ability to write clean, optimized code.

4. Subarray Division

Based on a technique used for searching pairs in a sorted array ( called the “two pointers” technique ), this problem can be solved in just a few lines and judges the candidate’s ability to optimize (as well as basic mathematical skills).

5. The Grid Search

This is a problem of moderate difficulty and tests the candidate’s knowledge of strings and searching algorithms, the latter of which is regularly tested in developer interviews across all levels.

Common Non-Technical Problem-Solving Interview Questions

Testing a candidate’s problem-solving skills goes beyond the IDE . Everyday situations can help illustrate competency, so here are a few questions that focus on past experiences and hypothetical situations to help interviewers gauge problem-solving skills.

1. Given the problem of selecting a new tool to invest in, where and how would you begin this task?

Key Insight : This question offers insight into the candidate’s research skills. Ideally, they would begin by identifying the problem, interviewing stakeholders, gathering insights from the team, and researching what tools exist to best solve for the team’s challenges and goals.

2. Have you ever recognized a potential problem and addressed it before it occurred?

Key Insight: Prevention is often better than cure. The ability to recognize a problem before it occurs takes intuition and an understanding of business needs.

3. A teammate on a time-sensitive project confesses that he’s made a mistake, and it’s putting your team at risk of missing key deadlines. How would you respond?

Key Insight: Sometimes, all the preparation in the world still won’t stop a mishap. Thinking on your feet and managing stress are skills that this question attempts to unearth. Like any other skill, they can be cultivated through practice.

4. Tell me about a time you used a unique problem-solving approach.

Key Insight: Creativity can manifest in many ways, including original or novel ways to tackle a problem. Methods like the 10X approach and reverse brainstorming are a couple of unique approaches to problem solving.

5. Have you ever broken rules for the “greater good?” If yes, can you walk me through the situation?

Key Insight: “Ask for forgiveness, not for permission.” It’s unconventional, but in some situations, it may be the mindset needed to drive a solution to a problem.

6. Tell me about a weakness you overcame at work, and the approach you took.

Key Insight: According to Compass Partnership , “self-awareness allows us to understand how and why we respond in certain situations, giving us the opportunity to take charge of these responses.” It’s easy to get overwhelmed when faced with a problem. Candidates showing high levels of self-awareness are positioned to handle it well.

7. Have you ever owned up to a mistake at work? Can you tell me about it?

Key Insight: Everybody makes mistakes. But owning up to them can be tough, especially at a workplace. Not only does it take courage, but it also requires honesty and a willingness to improve, all signs of 1) a reliable employee and 2) an effective problem solver.

8. How would you approach working with an upset customer?

Key Insight: With the rise of empathy-driven development and more companies choosing to bridge the gap between users and engineers, today’s tech teams speak directly with customers more frequently than ever before. This question brings to light the candidate’s interpersonal skills in a client-facing environment.

9. Have you ever had to solve a problem on your own, but needed to ask for additional help? How did you go about it?

Key Insight: Knowing when you need assistance to complete a task or address a situation is an important quality to have while problem solving. This questions helps the interviewer get a sense of the candidate’s ability to navigate those waters.

10. Let’s say you disagree with your colleague on how to move forward with a project. How would you go about resolving the disagreement?

Key Insight: Conflict resolution is an extremely handy skill for any employee to have; an ideal answer to this question might contain a brief explanation of the conflict or situation, the role played by the candidate and the steps taken by them to arrive at a positive resolution or outcome.

Strategies for Answering Problem-Solving Questions

If you’re a job seeker, chances are you’ll encounter this style of question in your various interview experiences. While problem-solving interview questions may appear simple, they can be easy to fumble — leaving the interviewer without a clear solution or outcome.

It’s important to approach such questions in a structured manner. Here are a few tried-and-true methods to employ in your next problem-solving interview.

1. Shine in Interviews With the STAR Method

S ituation, T ask, A ction, and R esult is a great method that can be employed to answer a problem-solving or behavioral interview question. Here’s a breakdown of these steps:

Situation : A good way to address almost any interview question is to lay out and define the situation and circumstances.
Task : Define the problem or goal that needs to be addressed. Coding questions are often multifaceted, so this step is particularly important when answering technical problem-solving questions.
Action : How did you go about solving the problem? Try to be as specific as possible, and state your plan in steps if you can.
Result : Wrap it up by stating the outcome achieved.

2. Rise above difficult questions using the SOAR method

A very similar approach to the STAR method, SOAR stands for S ituation, O bstacle, A ction, and R esults .

Situation: Explain the state of affairs. It’s important to steer clear of stating any personal opinions in this step; focus on the facts.
Obstacle: State the challenge or problem you faced.
Action: Detail carefully how you went about overcoming this obstacle.
Result: What was the end result? Apart from overcoming the obstacle, did you achieve anything else? What did you learn in the process?

3. Do It the PREP Way

Traditionally used as a method to make effective presentations, the P oint, R eason, E xample, P oint method can also be used to answer problem-solving interview questions.

Point : State the solution in plain terms.
Reasons: Follow up the solution by detailing your case — and include any data or insights that support your solution.
Example: In addition to objective data and insights, drive your answer home by contextualizing the solution in a real-world example.
Point : Reiterate the solution to make it come full circle.

How to Customize Problem-Solving Interview Questions

Generic problem-solving interview questions go a long way in gauging a candidate’s skill level, but recruiters can go one step further by customizing these problem-solving questions according to their company’s service, product, vision, or culture.

Here are some tips to do so:

Break down the job’s responsibilities into smaller tasks. Job descriptions may contain ambiguous responsibilities like “manage team projects effectively.” To formulate an effective problem-solving question, envision what this task might look like in a real-world context and develop a question around it.
Tailor questions to the role at hand. Apart from making for an effective problem-solving question, it gives the candidate the impression you’re an informed technical recruiter. For example, an engineer will likely have attended many scrums. So, a good question to ask is: “Suppose you notice your scrums are turning unproductive. How would you go about addressing this?”
Consider the tools and technologies the candidate will use on the job. For example, if Jira is the primary project management tool, a good problem-solving interview question might be: “Can you tell me about a time you simplified a complex workflow — and the tools you used to do so?”
If you don’t know where to start, your company’s core values can often provide direction. If one of the core values is “ownership,” for example, consider asking a question like: “Can you walk us through a project you owned from start to finish?”
Sometimes, developing custom content can be difficult even with all these tips considered. Our platform has a vast selection of problem-solving examples that are designed to help recruiters ask the right questions to help nail their next technical interview.

Get started with HackerRank

Over 2,500 companies and 40% of developers worldwide use HackerRank to hire tech talent and sharpen their skills.

6 REST API Interview Questions Every Developer Should Know

By Mike Simpson

When candidates prepare for interviews, they usually focus on highlighting their leadership, communication, teamwork, and similar crucial soft skills . However, not everyone gets ready for problem-solving interview questions. And that can be a big mistake.

Problem-solving is relevant to nearly any job on the planet. Yes, it’s more prevalent in certain industries, but it’s helpful almost everywhere.

Regardless of the role you want to land, you may be asked to provide problem-solving examples or describe how you would deal with specific situations. That’s why being ready to showcase your problem-solving skills is so vital.

If you aren’t sure who to tackle problem-solving questions, don’t worry, we have your back. Come with us as we explore this exciting part of the interview process, as well as some problem-solving interview questions and example answers.

What Is Problem-Solving?

When you’re trying to land a position, there’s a good chance you’ll face some problem-solving interview questions. But what exactly is problem-solving? And why is it so important to hiring managers?

Well, the good folks at Merriam-Webster define problem-solving as “the process or act of finding a solution to a problem.” While that may seem like common sense, there’s a critical part to that definition that should catch your eye.

What part is that? The word “process.”

In the end, problem-solving is an activity. It’s your ability to take appropriate steps to find answers, determine how to proceed, or otherwise overcome the challenge.

Being great at it usually means having a range of helpful problem-solving skills and traits. Research, diligence, patience, attention-to-detail , collaboration… they can all play a role. So can analytical thinking , creativity, and open-mindedness.

But why do hiring managers worry about your problem-solving skills? Well, mainly, because every job comes with its fair share of problems.

While problem-solving is relevant to scientific, technical, legal, medical, and a whole slew of other careers. It helps you overcome challenges and deal with the unexpected. It plays a role in troubleshooting and innovation. That’s why it matters to hiring managers.

How to Answer Problem-Solving Interview Questions

Okay, before we get to our examples, let’s take a quick second to talk about strategy. Knowing how to answer problem-solving interview questions is crucial. Why? Because the hiring manager might ask you something that you don’t anticipate.

Problem-solving interview questions are all about seeing how you think. As a result, they can be a bit… unconventional.

These aren’t your run-of-the-mill job interview questions . Instead, they are tricky behavioral interview questions . After all, the goal is to find out how you approach problem-solving, so most are going to feature scenarios, brainteasers, or something similar.

So, having a great strategy means knowing how to deal with behavioral questions. Luckily, there are a couple of tools that can help.

First, when it comes to the classic approach to behavioral interview questions, look no further than the STAR Method . With the STAR method, you learn how to turn your answers into captivating stories. This makes your responses tons more engaging, ensuring you keep the hiring manager’s attention from beginning to end.

Now, should you stop with the STAR Method? Of course not. If you want to take your answers to the next level, spend some time with the Tailoring Method , too.

With the Tailoring Method, it’s all about relevance. So, if you get a chance to choose an example that demonstrates your problem-solving skills, this is really the way to go.

We also wanted to let you know that we created an amazing free cheat sheet that will give you word-for-word answers for some of the toughest interview questions you are going to face in your upcoming interview. After all, hiring managers will often ask you more generalized interview questions!

Click below to get your free PDF now:

Get Our Job Interview Questions & Answers Cheat Sheet!

FREE BONUS PDF CHEAT SHEET: Get our " Job Interview Questions & Answers PDF Cheat Sheet " that gives you " word-word sample answers to the most common job interview questions you'll face at your next interview .

CLICK HERE TO GET THE JOB INTERVIEW QUESTIONS CHEAT SHEET

1. Can you tell me about a time when you had to solve a challenging problem?

In the land of problem-solving questions, this one might be your best-case scenario. It lets you choose your own problem-solving examples to highlight, putting you in complete control.

When you choose an example, go with one that is relevant to what you’ll face in the role. The closer the match, the better the answer is in the eyes of the hiring manager.

EXAMPLE ANSWER:

“While working as a mobile telecom support specialist for a large organization, we had to transition our MDM service from one vendor to another within 45 days. This personally physically handling 500 devices within the agency. Devices had to be gathered from the headquarters and satellite offices, which were located all across the state, something that was challenging even without the tight deadline. I approached the situation by identifying the location assignment of all personnel within the organization, enabling me to estimate transit times for receiving the devices. Next, I timed out how many devices I could personally update in a day. Together, this allowed me to create a general timeline. After that, I coordinated with each location, both expressing the urgency of adhering to deadlines and scheduling bulk shipping options. While there were occasional bouts of resistance, I worked with location leaders to calm concerns and facilitate action. While performing all of the updates was daunting, my approach to organizing the event made it a success. Ultimately, the entire transition was finished five days before the deadline, exceeding the expectations of many.”

2. Describe a time where you made a mistake. What did you do to fix it?

While this might not look like it’s based on problem-solving on the surface, it actually is. When you make a mistake, it creates a challenge, one you have to work your way through. At a minimum, it’s an opportunity to highlight problem-solving skills, even if you don’t address the topic directly.

When you choose an example, you want to go with a situation where the end was positive. However, the issue still has to be significant, causing something negative to happen in the moment that you, ideally, overcame.

“When I first began in a supervisory role, I had trouble setting down my individual contributor hat. I tried to keep up with my past duties while also taking on the responsibilities of my new role. As a result, I began rushing and introduced an error into the code of the software my team was updating. The error led to a memory leak. We became aware of the issue when the performance was hindered, though we didn’t immediately know the cause. I dove back into the code, reviewing recent changes, and, ultimately, determined the issue was a mistake on my end. When I made that discovery, I took several steps. First, I let my team know that the error was mine and let them know its nature. Second, I worked with my team to correct the issue, resolving the memory leak. Finally, I took this as a lesson about delegation. I began assigning work to my team more effectively, a move that allowed me to excel as a manager and help them thrive as contributors. It was a crucial learning moment, one that I have valued every day since.”

3. If you identify a potential risk in a project, what steps do you take to prevent it?

Yes, this is also a problem-solving question. The difference is, with this one, it’s not about fixing an issue; it’s about stopping it from happening. Still, you use problem-solving skills along the way, so it falls in this question category.

If you can, use an example of a moment when you mitigated risk in the past. If you haven’t had that opportunity, approach it theoretically, discussing the steps you would take to prevent an issue from developing.

“If I identify a potential risk in a project, my first step is to assess the various factors that could lead to a poor outcome. Prevention requires analysis. Ensuring I fully understand what can trigger the undesired event creates the right foundation, allowing me to figure out how to reduce the likelihood of those events occurring. Once I have the right level of understanding, I come up with a mitigation plan. Exactly what this includes varies depending on the nature of the issue, though it usually involves various steps and checks designed to monitor the project as it progresses to spot paths that may make the problem more likely to happen. I find this approach effective as it combines knowledge and ongoing vigilance. That way, if the project begins to head into risky territory, I can correct its trajectory.”

17 More Problem-Solving-Based Interview Questions

In the world of problem-solving questions, some apply to a wide range of jobs, while others are more niche. For example, customer service reps and IT helpdesk professionals both encounter challenges, but not usually the same kind.

As a result, some of the questions in this list may be more relevant to certain careers than others. However, they all give you insights into what this kind of question looks like, making them worth reviewing.

Here are 17 more problem-solving interview questions you might face off against during your job search:

How would you describe your problem-solving skills?
Can you tell me about a time when you had to use creativity to deal with an obstacle?
Describe a time when you discovered an unmet customer need while assisting a customer and found a way to meet it.
If you were faced with an upset customer, how would you diffuse the situation?
Tell me about a time when you had to troubleshoot a complex issue.
Imagine you were overseeing a project and needed a particular item. You have two choices of vendors: one that can deliver on time but would be over budget, and one that’s under budget but would deliver one week later than you need it. How do you figure out which approach to use?
Your manager wants to upgrade a tool you regularly use for your job and wants your recommendation. How do you formulate one?
A supplier has said that an item you need for a project isn’t going to be delivered as scheduled, something that would cause your project to fall behind schedule. What do you do to try and keep the timeline on target?
Can you share an example of a moment where you encountered a unique problem you and your colleagues had never seen before? How did you figure out what to do?
Imagine you were scheduled to give a presentation with a colleague, and your colleague called in sick right before it was set to begin. What would you do?
If you are given two urgent tasks from different members of the leadership team, both with the same tight deadline, how do you choose which to tackle first?
Tell me about a time you and a colleague didn’t see eye-to-eye. How did you decide what to do?
Describe your troubleshooting process.
Tell me about a time where there was a problem that you weren’t able to solve. What happened?
In your opening, what skills or traits make a person an exceptional problem-solver?
When you face a problem that requires action, do you usually jump in or take a moment to carefully assess the situation?
When you encounter a new problem you’ve never seen before, what is the first step that you take?

Putting It All Together

At this point, you should have a solid idea of how to approach problem-solving interview questions. Use the tips above to your advantage. That way, you can thrive during your next interview.

FREE : Job Interview Questions & Answers PDF Cheat Sheet!

Download our " Job Interview Questions & Answers PDF Cheat Sheet " that gives you word-for-word sample answers to some of the most common interview questions including:

What Is Your Greatest Weakness?
What Is Your Greatest Strength?
Tell Me About Yourself
Why Should We Hire You?

Click Here To Get The Job Interview Questions & Answers Cheat Sheet

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com.

His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others.

Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

About The Author

Mike simpson.

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com. His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others. Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

Our Products
Case Studies
Interview Questions
Jobs Articles
Members Login

Explore Jobs

Jobs Near Me
Remote Jobs
Full Time Jobs
Part Time Jobs
Entry Level Jobs
Work From Home Jobs

Find Specific Jobs

$15 Per Hour Jobs
$20 Per Hour Jobs
Hiring Immediately Jobs
High School Jobs
H1b Visa Jobs

Explore Careers

Business And Financial
Architecture And Engineering
Computer And Mathematical

Explore Professions

What They Do
Certifications
Demographics

Best Companies

Health Care
Fortune 500

Explore Companies

CEO And Executies
Resume Builder
Career Advice
Explore Majors
Questions And Answers
Interview Questions

Problem-Solving Interview Questions And Answers (With Examples)

How To Answer Tell Me About Yourself?
Elevator Pitch
Where Do You See Yourself In 5 Years?
What Are Your Career Goals?
When Can You Start?
How Do You Define Success?
Describe Your Work Ethic
Where Are Your Current Duties?
What Are Your Learning Goals?
Intrinsic Vs Extrinsic Motivation
What Is Your Desired Salary?
What Makes You Unique?
Why Are You The Best Person For This Job?
Reasons For Termination
What Are Your Work Values
How To Make A Hard Decision?
What Are You Most Proud Of?
Personal Code Of Ethics
Problem Solving Interview Questions
Taking Initiative Example
How Do You Prioritize Your Work
Explain Gaps In Employment
Most Rewarding College Experience
What Is Your Work Style
Tell Me About A Time When You Made A Mistake On The Job
Tell Me About Gaps In Employment
What Are You Passionate About
What Skills Would You Bring To The Job
Who Is Your Mentor?
How To Answer Tell Me About A Time You Disagreed With Your Boss
How To Answer Common Screening Questions

Find a Job You Really Want In

Summary. Problem-solving questions are used to focus on a candidates past experience with managing conflicts and overcoming obstacles in the workplace. When answering these questions, be sure to make your answer relevant to the position that you are applying to and be honest about your strengths and weaknesses. Be sure to provide examples from previous experiences.

Are you in the process of searching for a new job ? If so, you might be getting ready to meet with a hiring manager or a recruiter for a job interview. And if you’re like the majority of job candidates, this stage of the job search process is probably making you feel a fair bit of trepidation.

And no wonder! The interview is a completely necessary step for any job search, but that doesn’t make it any less nerve-wracking to meet with a prospective employer and answer questions about your personality , skills, and professional background.

Key Takeaways:

Being able to solve problems is a skill that almost all job positions need.

Problem-solving questions assess a candidate’s ability to think on their feet, handle pressure, and find creative solutions to complex problems.

Make sure your answer to a problem-solving question tells a story of you as an effective team player.

Problem Solving Interview Questions And Answers (With Examples)

What Is a Problem-Solving Interview Question?

How to answer a problem-solving interview question, eight examples of common problem-solving interview questions and answers, interviewing successfully, curveball questions, problem-solving faq.

A problem-solving interview question is a question that focuses on a candidate’s past experience with managing conflicts and overcoming unexpected obstacles in the workplace.

Problem-solving questions can come up in many different forms. As a general rule, however, they will be aimed at uncovering your ability to handle stress and uncertainty in a wide variety of contexts.

When you’re answering problem-solving interview questions, there are a few important tips to keep in mind:

Make your answers relevant to the position that you’re applying to. Always bear in mind that the fundamental goal of any interview question is to provide a hiring manager with a glimpse inside the mind of a candidate.

By asking you a problem-solving question, your interviewer is trying to understand whether or not you’re the type of person that could be relied upon under pressure or during a crisis. Every role, furthermore, comes with its own particular type of pressure.

Be honest about your strengths ( and weaknesses ). Hiring managers tend to be quite good at reading people. Therefore, if you give them a bogus response, they’re very likely to see through that – and to subsequently consider you to be untrustworthy.

Of course, it can be tempting at the moment to fabricate certain details in your response in the attempt to make yourself seem like a better candidate. But inventing details – however small – tends to backfire .

Tell stories that will portray you as a team player. Hiring managers and employers are always on the lookout for job candidates who will collaborate and communicate well amongst a broader team.

Be sure to provide examples of moments in which you took charge. Leadership skills are another key quality that hiring managers and employers seek out in job candidates. And being presented with a problem-solving question, as it turns out, is the perfect opportunity to demonstrate your own leadership skills.

Now that we understand the basic principles of problem-solving interview questions and how to respond to them, we’re finally ready to break down some real-world examples. So without any further preamble, here are eight examples of common problem-solving interview questions (as well as some examples of how you might answer them):

Can you tell me about a time when you encountered an unexpected challenge in the workplace? How did you go about dealing with it?

Explanation: With this question , your interviewer will be attempting to get a sense of how well you’re able to adapt to unexpected difficulties. The critical thing to remember when you’re answering this question – as we briefly discussed above – is to recall an incident that will be directly relevant to the role and the organization that you’re applying to.

Here’s an example of a high-quality response to this question:

“I remember a particular day at my previous job when an important deadline was pushed up at the very last minute. As the project manager , it was my responsibility to implement the necessary steps that would enable us to meet this new and truncated deadline. “Many of my peers began to hang their heads, resigning themselves to their belief that there was no hope to meet the new deadline. But I’ve always prided myself on my ability to adapt and thrive within a dynamic and quick-paced work environment – and that’s precisely the personal skill set that I channeled on this occasion. In the end, I reorganized my team’s priorities so that we were able to accommodate the new deadline.”

How would you say you typically respond to problems in general, and in the workplace in particular?

Explanation: This question is primarily designed to gauge a candidate’s ability (or lack thereof) to remain cool, calm, and collected under pressure. The ideal response to this question, in other words, will include a brief personal anecdote that illustrates your level-headedness and your ability to make rational, clear decisions during times of uncertainty.

“I would say that one of the primary qualities that sets me apart from the crowd of other candidates is my ability to remain calm and centered when conditions in the workplace become chaotic. “Looking back, I think that I first began to cultivate this ability during my tenure as a product manager working with a major Silicon Valley start-up. That was a particularly stressful period, but it was also quite instructive – I learned a great deal about staying positive, focused, and productive after an unexpected challenge presented itself. “These days, when I’m confronted by an unexpected problem – whether it’s in my personal life or in my professional life – I immediately channel the conflict management skills that I’ve been honing throughout the duration of my career. This helps a great deal, and my skills in this regard are only continuing to improve.”

Can you tell me about a time when you’ve had to settle a workplace dispute between yourself and a manager or colleague?

Explanation: Always keep in mind that one of the fundamental goals of any problem-solving question is to help a hiring manager gain a clearer sense of a candidate’s ability to work with others.

This question, in particular, is designed to give your interviewer a clearer sense of how well you’re able to communicate and compromise with your colleagues. With that in mind, you should be sure to answer this question in a way that will display a willingness to be fair, empathetic, and respectful to your teammates.

“I recall an incident in my last job in which one of my colleagues felt that I had not provided him with adequate resources to enable him to be successful in a particular project. I was acting as team leader for that particular project, and so it was my responsibility to ensure that everyone in my team was equipped for success. Unfortunately, I had to learn through the proverbial grapevine that this particular colleague bore some ill will toward me. I’ve never been one to participate in idle gossip, and so I decided to speak with this person so that we could begin to find a solution and address his grievances. So I crafted an email to him asking him if he would be interested in joining me for coffee the following day. He accepted the invitation, and during our coffee break, we were able to talk at length about the damage that he felt had been done to him. We devised a mutually agreeable solution on the spot. From then on, we had no significant problems between us.”

Are there any steps that you’ll regularly take during the early stages of a new project to ensure that you’ll be able to manage unexpected problems that occur down the road?

Explanation: This question, above all, is designed to test your ability to plan ahead and mitigate risk. These are both essential qualities that employers typically seek out in job candidates, particularly those who are being vetted for a management or leadership role.

When you’re answering this question, it’s important to emphasize your ability to look ahead towards the future and anticipate potential risks. As with the previous examples that we’ve already examined, the best way to communicate this ability is to provide your interviewer with a concrete example from your previous work history.

“I live my life – and I conduct my work – according to a single, incredibly important motto: “Failing to prepare is preparing to fail.” I’m a firm believer, in other words, of the primacy of careful planning. Without it, projects are almost always doomed to fail. “In my previous role as a marketing content writer with a major software company, I strived to apply this motto to my work every single day. “Here’s an example: About a year ago, I was responsible for overseeing and launching a new content strategy aimed at driving up consumer engagement. From the very outset, I understood that that particular project could be run off the rails if we did not take into account a considerable number of factors. “I won’t bore you with all of the nitty-gritty details, but the point is that this was a particularly sensitive project that required diligent and careful risk assessment. “Having realized that, my colleagues and I devised a comprehensive and flexible strategy for managing many risks that we envisioned would be awaiting us down the road. That initial step – looking ahead towards the future and mapping out the terrain of potential hazards – proved to be an essential measure for the success of the project.”

Do you consider your problem-solving capabilities to be above average?

Explanation: Hiring managers are always on the lookout for job candidates that stand out from the crowd. It’s even better when they can find a job candidate who knows that they stand out and who expresses that knowledge by being confident in their abilities.

At the same time, it’s never in a job candidate’s best interests to come across as egotistical or arrogant. When you’re responding to a question like this (that is, a question that’s focused on your ability to assess your own talents), it’s important to do your best to come across as self-assured but not pompous.

“Yes, all things considered, I would say that I have a talent for risk assessment, problem-solving, and risk mitigation. “That said, I can’t claim complete ownership over these abilities. In most cases, my demonstrated success in managing risk and solving problems in the workplace can be attributed at least as much to my team members as it can to me. For me to be able to be a successful problem-solver, it helps to be surrounded by colleagues whom I can trust.”

How would you describe your typical immediate reaction to unexpected challenges? Do you prefer to jump straight into the problem-solving process, or do you more commonly take some time to analyze and assess the problem before you dive in?

Explanation: This question is aimed at gauging your patience levels. This one can be a bit tricky because employers will sometimes prefer different responses – it all depends on the type of position and employer you’re applying for.

If you’re applying for a role in a quick-paced working environment that demands swift action , it will benefit you to describe your problem-solving strategy as unflinching and immediate.

If, on the other hand, the role you’re applying to does not demand such immediate action, it will probably be better to describe yourself as a more removed and relaxed problem solver.

But as always, you should never lie to your employer. Most of us will fall somewhere in the middle of these two types of problem solvers and will thereby have no difficulty painting ourselves honestly as one or the other.

However, if you’re definitely one type or the other, then you should describe yourself as such. This will make it much more likely that you’ll end up in a position that will be maximally rewarding both for you and for your employer.

“In most cases, my response to an unexpected problem will entirely depend on the nature of the problem at hand. If it demands immediate action, then I’ll dive right in without hesitation. “If, however, I determine that it would be more beneficial to take a step back and analyze the nature of the problem before we begin to meddle with it, then that’s exactly what I’ll do. “Generally speaking, I would say that I prefer the latter approach – that is, to take a step back and think things through before I begin to try to find a solution. In my experience, this makes it much easier for everyone involved to arrive at a practical and sustainable solution. “That said, I’m also perfectly capable of jumping straight into a problem if it demands immediate attention.”

Can you tell us about a time in which you had to explain a technically complicated subject to a client or customer? How did you approach that process, and how did it turn out?

Explanation: Strong communication skills are essential in the modern workplace. That means that employers tend to seek out job candidates that communicate well with their colleagues and individuals who have varying professional backgrounds and skill sets, including clients, customers, and third-party professionals.

“I recall an incident from many years ago – while I was working as a software engineer for a prominent robotics company – in which I found myself in the position of having to describe incredibly complex engineering details to a client. “This client had no prior experience in software engineering or artificial intelligence, so I had to relate this esoteric information more or less in layman terms. “Thankfully, I was able to employ some useful metaphors and analogies to communicate the information in a manner that this client could appreciate and understand. We went on to establish a successful collaborative partnership that flourished for four years.”

How would you rate your ability to work and succeed without direct supervision from your managers?

Explanation: Employers always tend to place a high value on job candidates who are self-motivated and can maintain high levels of productivity without constant supervision.

This is especially true now that the COVID-19 pandemic has suddenly made it necessary for so many millions of employers to transition to a remote workforce model. This question is designed to assess a candidate’s ability to stay focused and motivated while working remotely or without supervision.

“I’ve always considered myself – and my resume and references will support this – to be an exceptionally self-motivated individual, even when I’m working from home. “In fact, like many employees, I often find that my productivity levels tend to increase when I’m working remotely. I strive to set a positive example for my colleagues, even when we’re not all working under the same roof.”

Generally speaking, the best strategy for success in interviewing for a new job is doing your research beforehand. That means that you should be intimately familiar with the role, department, and company that you’re applying to before you step into the room (or log on to the Zoom meeting ) on the day of your interview.

When you preemptively take the time to carefully research the organization as a whole – and the responsibilities of the job opportunity in particular – you’ll minimize your chances of being caught off guard by an unexpectedly difficult question .

Still, there is only so much background information that you can uncover about an organization and a role before a job interview. No matter how carefully you prepare and how much background research you conduct, there are very likely going to be curveball questions during your job interview that you can’t predict.

In fact, many employers prefer to ask curveball questions (in addition to more run of the mill job interview questions) because they provide an insightful glimpse into a job candidate’s analytical thinking skills – not just their ability to memorize and recite answers to more common interview questions .

To that end, many hiring managers will ask job candidates to answer one or more problem-solving questions during a typical job interview. In contrast to traditional interview questions (such as: “Why do you think that you would be a good fit for this role?”

Or: “What do you consider to be your greatest professional achievement up to the current moment?”), problem-solving questions are specifically designed to assess a job candidate’s ability to think on their feet, handle real pressure, and find creative solutions to complex problems.

They’re also commonly referred to as analytical skills interview questions because they’re designed to gauge a candidate’s ability to make analytical decisions in real-time.

What are problem-solving skills?

Problem-solving skills include skills like research, communication, and decision making. Problem-solving skills allow for you to identify and solve problems effectively and efficiently. Research skills allow for you to identify the problem.

Communication skills allow for you to collaborate with others to come up with a plan to solve the problem. Decision making skills allow you to choose the right solution to the problem.

Why do interviewers ask problem-solving interview questions?

Interviewers ask problem-solving interview questions to see how candidate will approach and solve difficult situations. Interviewers want to see how you handle stress and uncertainty before hiring you for a position. Problem-solving is an important part of the everyday workday so they need to be sure you are capable of solving problems.

How do you solve a problem effectively?

To solve problems effectively you should first break the problem down and try different approaches. Breaking the problem up into different parts will help you have a better understanding and help you decide what your next step is going to be.

Once you see the different parts of the problem, trying different approaches to solve the problem can help you solve it faster. This will also help you determine the appropriate tools you need to solve the problem.

U.S. Department of Labor – Interview Tips

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating / 5. Vote count:

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.

Recent Job Searches

Registered Nurse Jobs Resume Location
Truck Driver Jobs Resume Location
Call Center Representative Jobs Resume Location
Customer Service Representative Jobs Resume
Delivery Driver Jobs Resume Location
Warehouse Worker Jobs Resume Location
Account Executive Jobs Resume Location
Sales Associate Jobs Resume Location
Licensed Practical Nurse Jobs Resume Location
Company Driver Jobs Resume

12 Open-Ended Job Interview Questions (With Answers)

Police Officer Interview Questions And Answers (With Examples)

How To Answer: Why Did You Decide To Become A Teacher?

Accounting Interview Questions (With Examples)

Career Advice >
Interview Questions >
Common Questions >

Common Problem Solving Interview Questions

1. how would you approach a situation where the standard solution to a problem is no longer effective.

Innovative thinking and adaptability are key when problem-solving in dynamic environments, as standard solutions may not always be applicable due to changes in technology, market conditions, or other external factors. This question also reveals how a candidate perceives and responds to failure, their resourcefulness, and their commitment to continuous improvement.

When responding to this question, start by acknowledging the importance of understanding why the standard solution is no longer effective. Discuss your process for analyzing the problem, which might include gathering data, consulting with experts, or reviewing feedback. Then, highlight your ability to generate alternative solutions, perhaps by brainstorming or employing creative thinking techniques. Emphasize your willingness to test new ideas, learn from the outcomes, and refine your approach based on the results. It’s also beneficial to mention any relevant past experiences where you successfully navigated a similar challenge.

Example: “ In approaching a situation where the standard solution fails, my initial step is to conduct a thorough analysis to understand the underlying reasons for its ineffectiveness. This involves a critical evaluation of the problem, examining new variables or changes in the environment that may have rendered the traditional approach obsolete. I prioritize data-driven insights and may leverage advanced analytics to discern patterns or anomalies.

Once the root cause is identified, I innovate alternative strategies, drawing on a combination of lateral thinking and industry best practices. This creative process is iterative and collaborative, often involving input from cross-functional teams to ensure a comprehensive perspective. I then pilot these solutions on a small scale to assess their efficacy, rigorously monitoring key performance indicators and being prepared to adapt swiftly. My focus is on developing a resilient and scalable solution, learning from each iteration to refine the approach until the desired outcome is achieved. This methodology has proven successful in past challenges, leading to sustainable improvements and enhanced problem-solving frameworks.”

2. Describe your process for identifying the root cause of complex issues.

Identifying the root cause of complex issues is crucial, ensuring a targeted and effective solution rather than a temporary fix. This question delves into the analytical and systematic thinking abilities of the candidate, revealing their approach to problem-solving. It also demonstrates how the candidate prioritizes tasks, manages resources, and applies critical thinking skills to navigate through layers of information and potential distractions to pinpoint the underlying problem.

To respond effectively, outline a clear, step-by-step approach that you use to diagnose issues. Begin with gathering all relevant information, followed by breaking down the problem into smaller, manageable parts. Describe how you analyze patterns or discrepancies, perhaps using specific methodologies like the “5 Whys” or fishbone diagrams. Mention any collaborative efforts, such as brainstorming with a team or consulting with experts, and highlight the importance of testing hypotheses to confirm the root cause before moving on to developing solutions.

Example: “ null”

3. What steps do you take when you have to solve a problem under tight deadlines?

The ability to manage stress and think critically under tight deadlines is a valuable skill in nearly every job. This question seeks to understand how a candidate prioritizes and maintains a clear head, systematically approaching the problem, and utilizing time management skills to deliver solutions without sacrificing quality or accuracy.

When responding, outline a clear, concise strategy that you follow. Start by quickly assessing the situation to understand the problem’s nature and its urgency. Then, prioritize the tasks that need immediate attention while considering the resources at hand. Explain how you would break down the problem into manageable parts, set achievable milestones, and if necessary, delegate tasks to ensure efficiency. Mention any tools or techniques you use to stay organized, such as time-blocking or the Eisenhower Matrix. Be sure to include an example from your past experience where you successfully implemented this approach to solve a problem under a tight deadline, highlighting the positive outcome that resulted from your methodical process.

Example: “ When faced with a problem under a tight deadline, my initial step is to quickly evaluate the scope and impact of the issue to prioritize effectively. I then break down the problem into smaller, more manageable tasks, setting clear, achievable milestones. Utilizing tools like the Eisenhower Matrix helps me to distinguish between tasks that are urgent and important, ensuring that I focus on those that will have the most significant impact on resolving the problem.

For instance, in a past situation with a critical system outage that needed to be resolved within hours, I swiftly gathered the necessary stakeholders and identified the root cause. By dividing the recovery process into immediate actions, such as system stabilization, and subsequent steps, including a thorough post-mortem, we were able to restore functionality within the deadline. This methodical approach not only resolved the issue promptly but also helped prevent future occurrences, demonstrating the effectiveness of a structured problem-solving strategy under pressure.”

4. Can you give an example of a time when you had to think outside the box to resolve a challenge?

Creativity often becomes a necessity when conventional methods fall short in problem-solving scenarios. This question assesses a candidate’s ability to demonstrate adaptability and innovative thinking, particularly when faced with unique or persistent issues. A candidate’s ability to think outside the box is indicative of their potential to add value to the company by overcoming obstacles in unconventional ways that may save time, resources, or create new opportunities for growth and development.

When responding, select a specific instance that showcases your resourcefulness and originality. Clearly articulate the problem, the range of solutions considered, and the rationale behind the chosen course of action. Emphasize the positive outcome or learning experience derived from it. This narrative should highlight your analytical skills, creativity, and willingness to take calculated risks when necessary.

Example: “ Certainly. On one occasion, I was faced with a challenge where the conventional solutions were either too costly or time-consuming, which could have led to missing critical deadlines. The issue was a bottleneck in data processing that required a faster, more efficient method than the existing workflow. After analyzing the process, I realized that by repurposing an existing tool from a different project and integrating it with a custom script I developed, we could automate a significant portion of the task.

This unconventional approach was not immediately obvious because it required combining tools in a way they were not originally intended to be used. However, by focusing on the end goal rather than the traditional usage of the tools, I was able to create a solution that not only resolved the bottleneck but also improved the overall efficiency of the workflow. The result was a 40% reduction in processing time, which allowed us to meet our project deadlines with a solution that was also more cost-effective than the alternatives. This experience reinforced the value of creative thinking and the importance of looking at problems from multiple perspectives to find the most effective solution.”

5. In what ways do you prioritize problems when multiple issues arise simultaneously?

Discerning which issues demand immediate attention and which can be deferred is a critical aspect of effective problem solving. This skill ensures that resources are allocated efficiently and critical situations are handled promptly. This question sheds light on a candidate’s ability to analyze the severity and impact of various problems, manage stress under pressure, and make judicious decisions that align with the organization’s objectives.

When responding, candidates should demonstrate a systematic approach to prioritization, such as using the Eisenhower Matrix (urgent-important matrix) or MoSCoW method (Must have, Should have, Could have, Won’t have), to evaluate and tackle problems. They should also cite examples from past experiences where they successfully managed concurrent issues, explaining the rationale behind their prioritization and the outcomes of their actions. It’s important to convey adaptability and a willingness to reassess situations as they evolve, ensuring that priorities are always aligned with the most current information and organizational goals.

Example: “ When faced with multiple issues simultaneously, I employ a strategic approach to prioritization, often leveraging the Eisenhower Matrix to categorize problems based on urgency and importance. For instance, I address urgent and important issues first, as these typically have immediate consequences and high impact on key objectives. Next, I tackle important but not urgent tasks, which are critical for long-term success but don’t require immediate action. This ensures that pressing matters are resolved promptly while still advancing strategic goals.

In one scenario, I was confronted with a critical system outage (urgent and important) alongside a request for a new feature implementation (important but not urgent). I immediately mobilized the team to resolve the outage, as it affected our core service delivery. Concurrently, I planned for the feature implementation by scheduling it for the next sprint, ensuring that resources were allocated effectively without compromising ongoing operations. This dual-focus approach not only restored service swiftly but also maintained progress on product enhancements, demonstrating adaptability and a keen understanding of the dynamic nature of problem-solving.”

6. Share an experience where you successfully applied a theoretical concept to a practical problem.

Bridging the gap between abstract ideas and real-world applications is the essence of applying theoretical concepts to practical problems. This translation from theory to practice demonstrates an individual’s ability to understand underlying principles and adapt them to meet specific challenges. It’s a testament to one’s analytical thinking, creativity, and pragmatism.

When responding, outline a specific situation where a theoretical concept was the key to resolving a practical issue. Detail the thought process behind choosing the appropriate theory, how you adapted it to the situation, and the steps taken to apply it. Conclude with the outcome, emphasizing the positive impact and what you learned from the experience. This approach will demonstrate your critical thinking skills, resourcefulness, and ability to deliver practical solutions underpinned by solid theoretical knowledge.

Example: “ In a project where we faced significant time constraints and resource limitations, I applied the Pareto Principle, or the 80/20 rule, to prioritize our efforts. Recognizing that 80% of effects often come from 20% of causes, I conducted an analysis to identify which aspects of the project would yield the highest value. This involved categorizing tasks based on impact and effort, and then focusing our resources on the critical 20% that would drive the most significant results.

By doing so, we were able to streamline our workflow, eliminate inefficiencies, and allocate our limited resources to the areas that would have the most substantial impact on the project’s success. The outcome was a timely completion of the project with a high-quality deliverable that exceeded stakeholder expectations. This experience reinforced the importance of strategic prioritization in problem-solving and has since become a staple in my approach to tackling complex challenges.”

7. What techniques do you use to ensure all potential solutions are considered before making a decision?

A comprehensive approach to problem-solving that goes beyond quick fixes is essential, requiring a methodical evaluation of various solutions. This reveals a candidate’s capacity to be thorough, consider the wider implications of their choices, and their propensity for innovation and creativity in problem-solving. It also provides a window into their ability to prioritize and manage risks, ensuring that decisions are made with a balance of speed and caution.

When responding to this question, outline a structured approach such as the following: First, define the problem clearly. Next, brainstorm possible solutions and use tools like lists, mind maps, or decision matrices to organize and compare them. Then, conduct a risk-benefit analysis for each viable option, considering both short-term and long-term consequences. Consult with relevant stakeholders when necessary to gain diverse perspectives and expertise. Finally, after careful consideration, select the most effective solution while remaining open to revisiting and adjusting the decision as new information or feedback becomes available.

Example: “ To ensure all potential solutions are considered, I employ a systematic approach that begins with a clear definition of the problem. This sets the stage for a comprehensive brainstorming session where I generate a wide array of possible solutions. I then utilize decision-making tools such as decision matrices to organize and prioritize these options, taking into account various criteria relevant to the problem at hand.

Following this, I perform a risk-benefit analysis on each of the shortlisted solutions, weighing their potential impacts in both the short and long term. This is complemented by consulting with stakeholders to incorporate diverse perspectives and expertise, which often reveals considerations that might otherwise be overlooked. The final step involves selecting the most effective solution, while maintaining flexibility to adapt the decision based on evolving circumstances or new insights. This structured yet adaptable approach ensures a thorough evaluation of all options and leads to informed, strategic decision-making.”

8. Detail how you’ve handled a scenario where team members disagreed on the solution to a problem.

Navigating team disagreements can reflect deeper dynamics such as power struggles, communication breakdowns, or diverse perspectives. This question helps understand how a candidate resolves conflicts and builds consensus. The approach taken in such situations reveals the candidate’s leadership qualities, emotional intelligence, and capacity for fostering a collaborative environment.

When responding to this question, outline a specific past experience, emphasizing the steps you took to mediate the disagreement. Begin by explaining how you listened to all parties involved to understand their perspectives. Then, discuss how you evaluated the differing opinions, possibly suggesting a compromise or guiding the team to a data-driven decision. Highlight your communication skills by detailing how you kept the dialogue constructive and focused on the problem, not the individuals. Finally, reflect on the outcome and what you learned from the experience, demonstrating your growth and ability to handle similar challenges in the future.

Example: “ In a previous scenario where team members had conflicting views on a solution, I initiated a structured discussion to ensure each viewpoint was thoroughly understood. I facilitated a session where each member presented their approach, highlighting the pros and cons, and then we collectively analyzed the potential outcomes through a SWOT analysis. This method allowed us to visualize the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats associated with each option.

After synthesizing the information, I steered the team towards a consensus by focusing on our shared objectives and the data at hand. We agreed to integrate the most compelling elements of each proposed solution, creating a hybrid approach that maximized our strengths while mitigating risks. This collaborative effort not only resolved the disagreement but also fostered a sense of ownership and unity within the team. The outcome was a well-rounded solution that outperformed our initial expectations, and the process reinforced my belief in leveraging diverse perspectives to achieve superior problem-solving.”

9. When faced with a problem, how do you assess the risks associated with each potential solution?

A careful evaluation of potential risks is a crucial component of problem-solving, ensuring the chosen solution doesn’t create additional problems or escalate the situation. This question determines if a candidate has a systematic approach to decision-making that includes risk assessment, which is crucial for minimizing negative outcomes and safeguarding company interests.

When responding, it’s essential to convey that you have a structured method for tackling problems. You might mention specific techniques like SWOT analysis (assessing strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) or decision matrices that help you weigh the pros and cons of each option. Share a relevant example where you successfully navigated a complex problem by analyzing the risks and benefits before implementing a solution. Highlight your ability to stay objective, the tools or criteria you use to predict potential issues, and how you balance risk with reward to make informed decisions.

Example: “ When faced with a problem, I employ a methodical approach to assess the risks associated with each potential solution. I start by identifying the core issue and then brainstorm possible solutions. For each solution, I conduct a SWOT analysis to evaluate its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. This not only helps in understanding the inherent risks but also in recognizing the potential benefits and strategic advantages.

To illustrate, in a recent complex project, I was confronted with a critical decision that had significant time constraints. I utilized a decision matrix to quantify the risks and benefits, assigning weights to factors such as cost, time, resource allocation, and potential for scalability. This allowed me to objectively compare the options based on predefined criteria. The chosen solution balanced risk with reward effectively, leading to a successful outcome. My approach ensures that decisions are not solely based on intuition but are backed by a rigorous analysis of the potential impacts.”

10. Have you ever encountered a problem where the data was ambiguous or conflicting? How did you proceed?

Dealing with ambiguity and conflicting data requires a balance of analytical skills and intuition. This question assesses a candidate’s ability to dissect complex information, weigh evidence, and make informed decisions even when the path is not clear-cut. It also provides a window into the candidate’s process for validating data and their approach to risk assessment.

When responding to this question, structure your answer to first describe the context and nature of the problem, emphasizing the ambiguity or conflict in the data. Follow with the steps you took to address the issue, which might include verifying the data sources, seeking additional information, consulting with colleagues, or employing statistical methods to discern trends and patterns. Conclude with the outcome, focusing on the decision made and the rationale behind it, as well as the lessons learned from the experience. This response should showcase your systematic approach to problem-solving and your ability to remain composed and solution-oriented when faced with uncertainty.

Example: “ Yes, I have encountered situations where data was ambiguous or conflicting. In one instance, the data sets from two different sources regarding customer behavior were contradictory. The first step was to conduct a thorough data validation process to ensure accuracy and integrity in the data collection methods. After confirming that both sources were reliable but still presented conflicting information, I proceeded to perform a deeper dive into the data.

I used statistical analysis to identify patterns and outliers, and I cross-referenced the results with qualitative insights from customer feedback. This triangulation approach allowed me to unravel the inconsistencies and understand the context behind the data. By combining multiple methods, I was able to isolate the variables causing the discrepancy and develop a more nuanced understanding of the customer behavior in question.

The outcome was a comprehensive report that reconciled the conflicting data and provided actionable insights. The process highlighted the importance of not taking data at face value and the value of a multifaceted approach to problem-solving in the face of ambiguity. It reinforced the lesson that rigorous analysis and a willingness to delve into the details are crucial when navigating complex data challenges.”

11. Tell us about a time you had to solve a problem without precedent or guidelines.

Navigating uncharted waters with confidence and creativity is a hallmark of effective problem solvers. This question seeks to understand if a candidate can think independently and innovate when there’s no roadmap to follow. It’s about the ability to remain calm under pressure, use one’s initiative, and demonstrate resourcefulness in the face of the unknown.

When responding, outline a specific situation where you faced an unprecedented challenge. Describe the steps you took to understand the problem, how you gathered information or resources despite the lack of guidelines, the thought process behind your solution, and the outcome. Emphasize your thought process and the soft skills you utilized, such as creativity, critical thinking, and perseverance. Showcasing your ability to learn from the experience and apply those lessons to future challenges will also strengthen your answer.

Example: “ In a project where we were tasked to optimize a complex system, we encountered an erratic behavior that was not documented nor previously observed. With no guidelines to address this issue, I initiated a methodical approach to understand the underlying factors contributing to the anomaly. I started by isolating the variables and conducting a series of controlled experiments to replicate the problem. Through this process, I utilized critical thinking to hypothesize potential causes and systematically tested each one.

Upon discovering that the issue was linked to an obscure interaction between two independent modules, I devised a novel solution that involved reengineering a component of the system to mitigate the interference. This solution not only resolved the immediate problem but also improved the overall robustness of the system. The success of this approach was evident in the enhanced performance metrics and the prevention of similar issues in the future. This experience honed my problem-solving skills and reinforced the importance of a structured and analytical approach when tackling unprecedented challenges.”

12. Illustrate your method for keeping stakeholders informed throughout the problem-solving process.

Keeping stakeholders informed is a critical communication skill for problem solvers. It’s a delicate balance of providing enough detail to maintain transparency and not overwhelming them with technical jargon or inconsequential updates. This ensures that the outcome aligns with their expectations and needs.

When responding to this question, outline a clear, structured approach that demonstrates your ability to assess who needs to be informed, how often they should receive updates, and what level of detail is appropriate. Emphasize your understanding of different communication methods and how to tailor your approach to different stakeholders. Provide examples from past experiences where your communication strategy led to successful problem resolution and positive stakeholder relationships. Show that you can differentiate between various stakeholder needs and adjust your communication style accordingly.

Example: “ In approaching stakeholder communication during the problem-solving process, I adhere to a structured communication plan that aligns with the project’s complexity and stakeholders’ interests. Initially, I identify key stakeholders and their information needs, determining the frequency and depth of updates required. For instance, technical stakeholders often require detailed progress insights, while business stakeholders might prioritize impact and timelines.

I employ a mix of communication methods, such as regular status reports, dashboards for real-time updates, and scheduled meetings for in-depth discussions. In a recent complex project, I established a weekly email digest for broad updates, complemented by bi-weekly meetings with the core team for tactical problem-solving. For urgent issues, I used direct communication channels to keep relevant stakeholders informed and involved in decision-making. This approach ensured transparency, built trust, and facilitated a collaborative environment, ultimately contributing to the successful resolution of the problem at hand.”

13. Describe a situation where you had to adapt your problem-solving strategy due to changing circumstances.

Flexibility in thinking and action is required when adaptability is necessary, and initial plans don’t pan out due to unforeseen obstacles or new information. This question delves into a candidate’s ability to pivot and continue working towards a solution without becoming derailed by change.

When responding, focus on a specific example that showcases your agility in problem-solving. Outline the original issue, the initial strategy you employed, and how the changing circumstances influenced your approach. Detail the steps you took to adjust your plan and the outcome of your efforts. Emphasize your thought process and the reasoning behind your decisions, including how you balanced persistence with flexibility. Highlight any lessons learned and how the experience has equipped you to handle similar situations in the future.

Example: “ In a project where the goal was to optimize a manufacturing process, the initial data analysis suggested that adjusting machine parameters would yield the desired efficiency gains. However, after implementing the adjustments, unforeseen fluctuations in material quality began to affect the production line’s consistency. Recognizing the dynamic nature of the problem, I shifted the focus from machine settings to supply chain management.

I conducted a rapid root cause analysis that identified the variability in material quality as the primary issue. Collaborating with suppliers, I developed a quality assurance protocol and integrated it with the procurement process. This adaptation not only stabilized the production but also improved the overall product quality. The outcome was a more robust and resilient system that could adapt to variations in input materials, leading to sustained improvements in efficiency and a reduction in waste.

The experience underscored the importance of monitoring all variables in a system, not just the most apparent ones, and reinforced the value of a flexible, holistic approach to problem-solving. It also highlighted the necessity of continuous communication with stakeholders to ensure that solutions are comprehensive and aligned with broader organizational goals.”

14. How do you balance intuition and analysis when tackling a new problem?

Navigating the balance between trusting one’s gut and relying on data-driven analysis is a key aspect of problem-solving. This question digs into the candidate’s problem-solving methodology and their ability to integrate different approaches to arrive at the best solution.

When responding to this question, first acknowledge the importance of both intuition and analysis. Give a specific example of a problem you faced and describe how you used data to inform your understanding of the issue. Then, explain how you supplemented this with your intuition, perhaps drawing on past experiences or hypothetical outcomes, to make your final decision. Emphasize your flexibility in shifting between these two modes of thinking and your ability to use them in tandem to solve problems effectively.

Example: “ Balancing intuition and analysis is crucial for effective problem-solving. In one instance, I was confronted with a complex issue where initial data was scarce. I began with a thorough analysis of the available information, using statistical tools to identify patterns and potential causes. This analytical approach provided a solid foundation, but the data alone was inconclusive.

At this juncture, I leveraged my intuition, which was honed through years of experience in similar scenarios. I hypothesized several plausible solutions that fit the emerging data profile. My intuition served as a guide, suggesting which avenues were most promising for further investigation. I then conducted targeted analyses to test these hypotheses, which ultimately led to identifying the root cause and implementing a successful solution. This process exemplified how intuition can provide direction when data is incomplete or ambiguous, while analysis helps validate or refute the intuitive insights, ensuring a robust and informed decision-making process.”

15. What’s your approach to ensuring that a solved problem doesn’t recur?

Implementing preventative measures and ensuring long-term success are part of effective problem-solving. This question delves into a candidate’s foresight and dedication to continuous improvement. Effective problem solvers know that addressing the root cause and learning from issues is essential to prevent recurrence.

When responding, outline a structured method that includes analyzing the problem thoroughly, implementing a solution, monitoring the results, and adjusting as necessary. Emphasize the importance of documentation, sharing knowledge with the team, and creating standard operating procedures if applicable. Highlight any past experiences where you successfully employed such strategies to not only solve a problem but also to ensure it did not happen again.

Example: “ My approach to preventing the recurrence of a solved problem begins with a root cause analysis to understand the underlying issues fully. Once the solution is implemented, I establish metrics and monitoring systems to track the effectiveness of the corrective actions. This continuous monitoring allows for the early detection of any signs that the problem may resurface, enabling proactive adjustments.

I also prioritize the documentation of the problem-solving process, including the rationale behind chosen solutions and the steps taken to implement them. This documentation serves as a reference for future incidents and is integrated into training materials to educate the team. By doing so, the knowledge becomes part of the team’s collective expertise. Furthermore, when applicable, I develop standard operating procedures to formalize the new practices that prevent the problem’s recurrence. This holistic strategy ensures sustainability and improves the overall resilience of the systems or processes involved.”

16. Can you recall a problem you solved that had significant positive impact on your previous organization?

In positions that directly affect the operational efficiency, strategic direction, and financial success of an organization, problem-solving is especially critical. This question sifts through a candidate’s experience to find instances where their actions led to measurable improvements.

When responding to this question, focus on a specific challenge you faced, articulate the steps you took to address it, and quantify the outcomes where possible. Start by setting the scene to give context to the problem, then describe your thought process and the actions you implemented. Conclude with the results, emphasizing any positive changes that ensued, such as cost savings, increased revenue, improved customer satisfaction, or enhanced productivity. This approach showcases your problem-solving skills and your value as a results-oriented professional.

Example: “ Certainly. In a previous project, I identified a recurring bottleneck in the product development process, which was causing significant delays in product launches. The root of the issue was a lack of integration between the design and prototyping phases, leading to repeated cycles of revisions and approvals that were not time-efficient.

To address this, I initiated a cross-functional workshop with stakeholders from design, engineering, and production teams to collaboratively develop a more streamlined process. We implemented a concurrent engineering approach, allowing for design and prototyping stages to overlap and for real-time feedback. This adjustment led to a 30% reduction in time-to-market for new products and a subsequent increase in competitive advantage and customer satisfaction. The improved process also resulted in a cost saving of approximately 15% per project due to reduced waste and more efficient use of resources.”

17. How do you maintain objectivity in problem-solving when facing personal biases?

Managing personal biases is a vital skill in problem-solving because biases can cloud judgment and lead to less effective or unfair solutions. The question tests the candidate’s commitment to fairness and ability to separate personal feelings from professional responsibilities.

To respond, one should highlight their awareness of inherent biases and discuss specific strategies they employ to mitigate their impact. This could include seeking diverse perspectives, relying on established processes, using data to inform decisions, and regularly reflecting on and challenging one’s own assumptions. Sharing a concrete example where you successfully overcame a personal bias to solve a problem can demonstrate your ability to maintain objectivity in practice.

Example: “ In maintaining objectivity during problem-solving, I first acknowledge the inevitability of personal biases. To counteract this, I systematically integrate checks and balances into my decision-making process. This involves actively seeking out diverse perspectives to challenge my initial assumptions and ensure that a range of viewpoints is considered. I also place a strong emphasis on evidence-based decision-making, where data and facts form the backbone of the solution, rather than subjective opinions.

On one occasion, I recognized a cognitive bias towards a familiar technology that I was inclined to favor for a project. To maintain objectivity, I conducted a blind evaluation of multiple technologies, focusing solely on performance metrics and compatibility with project requirements. This approach led to the selection of a more efficient and cost-effective technology that I had not previously considered, ultimately benefiting the project outcome. Regular self-reflection and a commitment to continuous improvement in my problem-solving approach help me to minimize the influence of personal biases and make more balanced and impartial decisions.”

18. Give an example of how you measure the success of a solution post-implementation.

Evaluating the impact and effectiveness of a solution to ensure it meets the desired objectives is a crucial part of problem-solving. This question tests your commitment to continuous improvement and your understanding that a solution’s value is ultimately determined by its real-world performance.

When responding, describe a specific situation where you implemented a solution to a problem. Detail the metrics or KPIs you established to evaluate its success and how you collected and analyzed the data. Share the outcome of the evaluation and, if necessary, any additional steps you took to refine the solution. This demonstrates your analytical skills, your ability to follow through, and your commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes.

Example: “ In addressing a recent operational inefficiency, I developed a solution that streamlined the process flow. To measure the success post-implementation, I established clear, quantifiable KPIs that were directly influenced by the solution. These included throughput rate, error rate, and time to completion. I utilized a combination of data analytics tools and user feedback to collect relevant data, ensuring a robust evaluation from both a quantitative and qualitative perspective.

Upon analyzing the data, I observed a 25% increase in throughput rate and a 40% reduction in error rate, while time to completion decreased by 15%. These metrics surpassed our initial success criteria, indicating a significant positive impact. However, user feedback revealed some minor usability issues, which I promptly addressed through iterative refinements. This not only optimized the solution further but also demonstrated my commitment to continuous improvement and stakeholder satisfaction.”

19. In what way do you leverage technology to enhance your problem-solving capabilities?

Harnessing the power of technology to analyze data, automate processes, and visualize solutions is often required in modern problem-solving. This question serves to assess a candidate’s familiarity with relevant software, platforms, and methodologies that can contribute to more efficient and effective problem-solving strategies.

When responding to this question, it’s important to highlight specific technologies you’ve used to tackle challenges. Discuss how you’ve utilized software for data analysis, project management tools to track progress, or collaboration platforms to brainstorm solutions with a team. Share a concrete example that demonstrates your ability to integrate technology into your problem-solving process, and explain how it led to a successful outcome. This shows that you are resourceful and forward-thinking in your approach to overcoming obstacles.

Example: “ To enhance my problem-solving capabilities, I leverage technology by employing advanced data analytics tools that allow for a deeper dive into the root causes of complex issues. For instance, I’ve utilized machine learning algorithms to identify patterns and predict potential problems before they escalate, enabling proactive rather than reactive solutions. This integration of predictive analytics has not only streamlined the problem-solving process but also significantly improved decision-making accuracy.

In addition, I harness the power of collaborative platforms to facilitate brainstorming and idea-sharing among diverse teams. By using these tools, I’ve successfully orchestrated virtual workshops that brought together cross-functional expertise, leading to innovative solutions that might not have emerged in a traditional meeting setting. This approach, underpinned by technology, has repeatedly proven to be instrumental in breaking down silos, fostering a culture of collaboration, and driving successful outcomes in complex problem-solving scenarios.”

20. Describe a scenario where you utilized cross-functional collaboration to address a complex issue.

Cross-functional collaboration exemplifies a candidate’s ability to understand the multifaceted nature of complex issues and their capability to harness diverse expertise to forge solutions. This approach not only leads to more innovative outcomes but also exemplifies leadership qualities and adaptability.

When responding to this question, candidates should select a scenario that highlights their role in facilitating and encouraging teamwork across different business areas. They should articulate the challenge clearly, detail the collaborative process, and explain how they engaged with others to leverage their unique skills. It’s important to emphasize the outcome of the collaboration and reflect on what was learned from the experience.

Example: “ In a scenario where our product launch was jeopardized by unforeseen supply chain disruptions, I spearheaded a cross-functional task force to mitigate the risks. This involved engaging with procurement, logistics, marketing, and product development teams. By fostering an environment of open communication and shared goals, we collectively identified alternative suppliers and adjusted our production timelines.

I facilitated brainstorming sessions that leveraged the procurement team’s expertise in vendor management, logistics’ insights into transportation challenges, and product development’s flexibility in adjusting specifications. The marketing team, meanwhile, crafted communication strategies to manage customer expectations. This synergy not only resolved the immediate crisis but also resulted in a more resilient supply chain strategy. The product launched with minimal delay, and the experience underscored the value of cross-departmental agility and proactive planning.”

6 Common Problem-Solving Interview Questions and Answers

By Status.net Editorial Team on November 22, 2023 — 9 minutes to read

As you walk into a problem-solving interview, it’s normal to feel nervous about what to expect. These interviews are aimed at assessing how well you can analyze a problem, develop an approach, and arrive at a solution. Employers want to see how you think, break down complex situations into manageable parts, and use creativity to find answers. To help you navigate these interviews, let’s go over some common types of problem-solving questions and answers.

Common Problem-Solving Interview Questions and Answers

“can you describe a difficult problem you faced at work and how you solved it”.

When answering this question, choose a specific problem that you faced at work. Make sure to provide a clear description of the issue, the steps you took to address it, and the outcome. Demonstrating that you’re capable of breaking down problems and taking a logical, methodical approach to finding a solution is key.

Example: “At my previous job, our team was struggling with meeting sales targets. I conducted a thorough analysis of our sales data and identified trends in customer behavior. Based on the findings, I recommended a new marketing strategy, which led to a significant increase in sales.”

“Share a time when you had to think creatively to overcome a challenge.”

This question is all about highlighting your ability to think outside the box. Choose an instance where you had to develop a creative solution to solve a problem and demonstrate how your innovative thinking helped achieve a positive outcome.

Example: “When I was working as a project manager, our team was facing budget constraints that threatened the project’s timeline. I came up with an idea to streamline processes and reduce expenses by utilizing free online collaboration tools, which ultimately saved resources and allowed the project to stay on track.”

“How do you approach handling tight deadlines and multiple tasks?”

Employers want to know that you can handle pressure and prioritize your workload effectively. To answer this question, describe specific strategies you’ve used to juggle multiple tasks and meet tight deadlines, such as setting daily goals, using time management tools, or delegating tasks when appropriate.

Example: “When facing multiple tasks and tight deadlines, I start by making a detailed to-do list and assigning each task a priority level. I then tackle the most time-sensitive and essential tasks first and work my way down the list. If necessary, I’ll reach out to my colleagues for assistance or delegate some tasks to ensure everything gets completed on time.”

“Tell me about a time when your team faced a conflict, and how did you help resolve it?”

This question is aimed at understanding your conflict resolution skills and ability to work well in a team. Describe a specific instance where your team faced a conflict and explain the steps you took to address the issue, making sure to highlight your communication and collaboration skills.

Example: “When I was leading a team project, two team members had a disagreement regarding the project’s direction. I organized a meeting where everyone could express their opinions and concerns. Together, we were able to come to a consensus and adjust the project plan accordingly, leading to a successful outcome.”

“What steps do you take to identify and prioritize issues when problems arise?”

Showcase your problem-solving process by providing a clear description of the steps you take to identify and prioritize issues. Emphasize your ability to analyze situations, stay organized, and make well-informed decisions.

Example: “When problems arise, I first gather information to get a clear understanding of the situation. Next, I assess the severity and urgency of each issue and prioritize them based on their impact on the project or business objective. Once the priorities are established, I create an action plan to address the most pressing issues first and continue working down the list.”

“Describe an instance where you used your analytical skills to find a solution.”

Employers value analytical thinking as it helps assess complex situations and make sound decisions. Choose a specific example where your analytical skills were put to the test and explain how your analysis led to a successful outcome.

Example: “While working as a financial analyst, I spotted discrepancies in a client’s financial reports. By conducting a thorough examination of the data and identifying irregularities in their expenses, I helped the client uncover a case of fraudulent activity. This led to the implementation of stricter internal controls, preventing future fraud occurrences.”

Related: How to Answer 9 Common Situational Interview Questions

How to Answer 11 Common Behavioral Interview Questions

Types of Problem-Solving Interview Questions

Fact-finding questions.

These questions focus on your ability to collect and analyze information, as well as make deductions based on your findings. Employers want to see that you can dig deep and uncover relevant points before arriving at a conclusion. A couple examples of fact-finding questions include:

How would you investigate an issue with falling sales numbers?
Can you walk me through how you would analyze the performance of a new product?

To answer fact-finding questions, pay attention to details, use concrete examples, and demonstrate a structured approach to the problem at hand.

Logic and Reasoning Questions

Logic and reasoning questions assess your ability to think critically and objectively to identify the underlying cause of a problem. Employers want to see if you can apply logic to make informed decisions based on sound reasoning. Some examples of logic and reasoning questions include:

If you were given a problem with two seemingly correct solutions, how would you determine the best course of action?
How do you decide on the correct priority when faced with various tasks or issues?

When answering logic and reasoning questions, think out loud and reveal your thought process. Incorporate critical thinking techniques and showcase your ability to weigh the pros and cons of different solutions.

Creative Thinking Questions

Creative thinking questions evaluate your ability to come up with original ideas or unconventional approaches to solving problems. Your potential employer wants to see if you can think outside the box and innovate when faced with new situations. Some examples of creative thinking questions may be:

Describe a situation where you had to solve a problem using an unexpected approach. How did you develop this solution?
Can you provide an example of when you collaborated on a project that required unique ideas to meet a deadline?

To answer creative thinking questions, highlight your ability to brainstorm and be resourceful. Show that you can adapt and find new solutions to unexpected challenges.

Issue Resolution Questions

Issue resolution questions focus on your ability to resolve conflicts and reach a compromise while working with others. Employers want to ensure that you can effectively communicate, negotiate, and work with people in difficult situations. A few examples of issue resolution questions are:

Describe a conflict that occurred within a team, and explain how you helped resolve it.
How do you handle circumstances when two team members have differing opinions on a project?

In responding to issue resolution questions, emphasize your active listening skills, diplomacy, and ability to empathize with others’ perspectives. Show that you can find a resolution that benefits all parties involved, while maintaining a positive and productive working environment.

Crafting Effective Responses

Understanding the problem.

To craft an effective response to a problem-solving interview question, first, make sure you understand the problem. Listen carefully and take notes if necessary. Don’t hesitate to ask for clarification or additional information to ensure you have a complete understanding of the problem. This will show the interviewer that you are thorough and detail-oriented.

Creating a Plan

Next, break down the problem into smaller, manageable steps. This will help you structure your response and demonstrate your ability to think logically. Outline the steps you would take to solve the problem and prioritize them according to importance or urgency.

For example:

Identify the root cause : Determine the primary issue that needs to be addressed.
Gather necessary information : Collect data and consult with relevant parties to get a complete understanding of the situation.
Develop possible solutions : Brainstorm different approaches to tackle the problem and list the pros and cons of each solution.

Implementing Solutions

Once you have a plan in place, be prepared to discuss how you would implement your chosen solution. This may include elements such as identifying resources and stakeholders, setting a timeline for completion, and assigning tasks to relevant team members. Use specific examples to illustrate your points, and be prepared to explain your rationale for each decision.

For instance, you might say, “I would first gather a team of experts in the field to analyze the data and come up with recommendations. We would create and assign tasks to the team members with deadlines to ensure timely progress. Regular check-ins and progress updates would be scheduled to keep everyone on track and address any issues that arise.”

Reviewing Outcomes

After discussing how you would implement your solution, describe how you would evaluate its effectiveness. This might involve tracking and measuring key performance indicators (KPIs), gathering feedback from stakeholders, or conducting post-implementation reviews to identify lessons learned.

Make your evaluation process concrete by providing examples like these:

Measuring KPIs : “We would track metrics such as customer satisfaction and retention rates to determine the effectiveness of our solution.”
Stakeholder feedback : “We would collect feedback from team members and stakeholders to better understand the impact of our solution on the larger organization.”
Post-implementation reviews : “We would conduct periodic reviews to identify areas where we can improve and optimize our solution.”

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Too much detail.

Sometimes, you might go into too much detail when answering problem-solving interview questions. It’s important to strike a balance between being thorough and being concise. To avoid this mistake, practice summarizing your experience and the steps you took in solving problems. Use bullet points to help you stay organized and focused on the key points.

Identify the key elements of the problem
Outline your thought process and steps briefly
Don’t get lost in unrelated details

Not Enough Detail

On the other hand, not providing enough detail in your answers can leave the interviewer with a lack of understanding about your problem-solving skills. To avoid this, make sure you’re clear about the problem, the steps you took to address it, and the outcomes you achieved. Back up your answers with examples from your past experiences.

Explain the problem and why it was significant
Share specific steps you took to solve the problem
Discuss the outcomes and any lessons learned

Failing to Relate to Job Role

Another common mistake is failing to connect your answers to the job role you’re interviewing for. Always keep the job requirements and responsibilities in mind when talking about your problem-solving skills. Show how your experiences and approach to problem-solving will directly benefit their organization in the position you’re interviewing for.

Understand the job requirements and responsibilities
Relate your answers to the specific context of the job
Explain how your problem-solving skills will directly benefit the organization

Misunderstanding the Question

It can be easy to miss the point of a question or not understand what the interviewer is asking. Misunderstanding the question can lead to an irrelevant answer. To prevent this, take a moment to process the question and, if necessary, ask the interviewer to clarify. This shows that you’re attentive and genuinely interested in giving a thoughtful answer.

Listen carefully to the question and take a moment to process it
If needed, ask the interviewer for clarification
Respond with a focused and relevant answer
How to Answer 9 Common Situational Interview Questions
12 Example Answers to Common Second Interview Questions
25 Teaching Assistant Interview Questions (Smart Answers)
20 Receptionist Interview Questions (and Answers)
Management Styles Interview Questions [Example Answers]
26 Common Exit Interview Questions (with Answers)

How it works

Transform your enterprise with the scalable mindsets, skills, & behavior change that drive performance.

Explore how BetterUp connects to your core business systems.

We pair AI with the latest in human-centered coaching to drive powerful, lasting learning and behavior change.

Build leaders that accelerate team performance and engagement.

Unlock performance potential at scale with AI-powered curated growth journeys.

Build resilience, well-being and agility to drive performance across your entire enterprise.

Transform your business, starting with your sales leaders.

Unlock business impact from the top with executive coaching.

Foster a culture of inclusion and belonging.

Accelerate the performance and potential of your agencies and employees.

See how innovative organizations use BetterUp to build a thriving workforce.

Discover how BetterUp measurably impacts key business outcomes for organizations like yours.

A demo is the first step to transforming your business. Meet with us to develop a plan for attaining your goals.

What is coaching?

Learn how 1:1 coaching works, who its for, and if it's right for you.

Accelerate your personal and professional growth with the expert guidance of a BetterUp Coach.

Types of Coaching

Navigate career transitions, accelerate your professional growth, and achieve your career goals with expert coaching.

Enhance your communication skills for better personal and professional relationships, with tailored coaching that focuses on your needs.

Find balance, resilience, and well-being in all areas of your life with holistic coaching designed to empower you.

Discover your perfect match : Take our 5-minute assessment and let us pair you with one of our top Coaches tailored just for you.

Research, expert insights, and resources to develop courageous leaders within your organization.

Best practices, research, and tools to fuel individual and business growth.

View on-demand BetterUp events and learn about upcoming live discussions.

The latest insights and ideas for building a high-performing workplace.

BetterUp Briefing

The online magazine that helps you understand tomorrow's workforce trends, today.

Innovative research featured in peer-reviewed journals, press, and more.

Founded in 2022 to deepen the understanding of the intersection of well-being, purpose, and performance

We're on a mission to help everyone live with clarity, purpose, and passion.

Join us and create impactful change.

Read the buzz about BetterUp.

Meet the leadership that's passionate about empowering your workforce.

For Business

For Individuals

5 problem-solving questions to prepare you for your next interview

Jump to section

What is problem-solving, and why do hiring managers care so much about it?

How to answer problem-solving questions

Common problem-solving questions and answers, things to avoid when answering problem-solving questions, how to prepare for problem-solving interview questions, problem solved.

“How would you approach telling a manager that they’ve made a mistake ?”

Hard problem-solving questions like these can catch you off guard in a job interview. They’re hard to prepare for if you don’t know they’re coming, and you might not even see why they’re relevant to the job.

Even the most experienced interviewees might feel like they’re giving a bad interview if they stumble on questions like these.

Preparing and practicing hard questions is one way to ease your fears. Learn to dissect what a hiring manager is really asking and answer problem-solving questions with confidence.

What is problem-solving, and why do hiring managers care so much about it?

Problem-solving is holistically understanding a problem, determining its cause, and identifying creative solutions . Many, if not most, job descriptions ask for problem-solving skills because regardless of industry, they’re an asset in the workplace.

Startups and tech companies like Google famously pose critical thinking and problem-solving questions in job interviews . But hiring managers from all industries use unique questions like these to understand your problem-solving skills. It’s not about the answer you give, or whether it’s correct, but the way you come to that conclusion.

In job interviews, problem-solving questions pose a potential problem or situation typical to the job you’re interviewing for. Your response shows your ability to respond to common problems, even on the spot. Depending on the question, it can also indicate other skills like:

Critical thinking

Communication

Dependability

Behavioral competency

Soft skills

Decision-making

The average business spends $4,700 hiring one new worker , so it wants to make sure you’re the right fit for the job. Even if you have the right skills and experience on paper, hiring managers need a comprehensive idea of what kind of worker you are to avoid choosing the wrong candidate.

Like standard behavioral interview questions , problem-solving questions offer interviewers a more well-rounded view of how you might perform on the job.

Problem-solving questions encourage you to give answers about your past experiences, decision-making process , and ability to arrive at creative solutions . Learning how to answer questions in an interview means learning how to tell a good story , so your answer should have a clear structure, unique topic, and compelling journey to demonstrate your competencies.

The STAR method is a common technique for answering problem-solving interview questions clearly and thoughtfully. The acronym stands for situation, task, action, and result. It provides a simple structure that gives your response a smooth beginning, middle, and end.

Here’s how to use the STAR method to describe past on-the-job experiences or hypothetical situations:

Situation: Start with a problem statement that clearly defines the situation.

Task: Explain your role in the situation. What is, or would be your responsibility?

Action: Recount the steps or problem-solving strategies you used, or would use, to overcome the problem.

Result: Share what you achieved or would hope to resolve through your problem-solving process.

Every job requires problem-solving on some level, so you can expect at least one job interview question to ask about those skills. Here are a few common problem-solving interview questions to practice:

1. Give us an example of when you faced an unexpected challenge at work. What did you do to face it?

What’s a hiring manager really asking? Employers want to know that your problem-solving has a process. They want to hear you break down a problem into a set of steps to solve it.

Sample answer: I was working in sales for a wholesale retailer. A regular client wrongly communicated the pricing of a unit. I realized this immediately, and rather than pointing out the error, I quickly double-checked with my supervisor to see if we could respect the price.

I informed the client of the error and that we were happy to keep the price he was given. It made him feel like he'd gotten a fair deal and trusted my authority as a sales rep even more. The loss wasn't significant, but saving face in front of the client was.

Man-talking-confidently-at-job-interview-problem-solving-questions

2. How would you manage a frustrated client?

What’s a hiring manager really asking? They want to gauge your ability to stay cool and be patient in stressful situations, even when dealing with difficult people . Keep your answer professional, and don't use the opportunity to bad-mouth a past client. Show that you can stay respectful even if someone isn’t respecting you.

Sample answer: I've had plenty of experience dealing with unhappy clients. I've learned two important things: their frustration isn’t a personal attack against me, and we have the same goal to solve the problem. Knowing that helps me stay calm, listen carefully to the client's situation, and do my best to identify where the situation went astray.

Once we identify the problem, if I can handle it myself, I communicate exactly what we’ll do for the client and how. What steps we’ll take depend on the client, but I always start by proposing solutions to show I care about a path forward, and then keep them updated on my progress to implementing that fix.

3. Describe a time you made a mistake at work. How did you fix it?

What’s a hiring manager really asking? No one is above making an error. Employers want to know that you own up to and learn from your mistakes instead of getting frustrated and walking away from the problem.

Sample answer: My first managerial position was at a public relations agency. When I was promoted to work on client outreach, I struggled to learn to delegate my old responsibilities, which were writing social media copy. I was afraid to let go of control, and I was micromanaging . One day, I wrote out some copy, sent it out, and quickly realized I was using the wrong style guide in my haste.

The client noticed, and we had to work to regain their trust, which put a strain on the entire team. I took full responsibility and used that moment to understand that I wasn't trusting my team's abilities. I apologized to my team for overstepping boundaries and worked to let go of my old role completely.

4. Have you ever had a difficult time working with a team member? How did you deal with the situation?

What’s a hiring manager really asking? Even the most independent job requires some teamwork, whether it’s communicating with clients or other team members. Employers want to know that you can solve interpersonal problems, know when to escalate and help maintain a positive work environment.

Sample answer: At my last job, we were fully remote. I had a coworker that wasn't very communicative about their process, which led to redundancies in our work and miscommunications that set us behind. I asked them to have a one-on-one meeting with me so we could analyze where we were failing to communicate and how to improve.

It wasn't a comfortable process, but we developed a better practice to collaborate and improve our ability to work as a team , including weekly meetings and check-ins.

5. Tell me about a time you created an innovative solution with limited information or resources.

What’s a hiring manager really asking? They want to test your resourcefulness, which is a valuable soft skill. Using a “ Tell me about a time” question lets you demonstrate out-of-the-box thinking and shows that you don't quit when things get difficult.

Sample answer: I worked in project management for a software developer. We were frequently going over budget and needed to limit spending. I instituted a new workflow app across departments and made everyone track every step of their process. We ended up finding information silos between design, sales, and product development.

They were all using different platforms to communicate the status of the same project, which meant we were wasting time and money. We centralized communication and improved operational efficiency, solved our budget problems, and increased productivity by 30%.

Man-presenting-something-at-work-in-front-of-people-problem-solving-questions

Problem-solving questions offer deep insights into the kind of worker you are. While your answer is important, so is your delivery. Here are some things to avoid when trying to answer problem-solving questions:

Don’t clam up: It's okay to take your time to reflect, but never abstain from answering. An interviewer will understand if you need to pause and think. If you’re really stumped, you can ask to return to that question later in the interview.

Avoid generic answers: Generic answers show a lack of creativity and innovation . Use the opportunity to explain what makes you and your problem-solving process unique.

Don’t lose confidence: How you answer is as important as what you answer. Do your best to practice confident body language, like eye contact and strong posture. Practicing ahead of time can help alleviate pressure while you’re answering.

Try not to rush: Rushing through an answer could make it unclear or incoherent, which might reflect poorly on your ability to keep a level head. Practice mindful breathing and pace yourself. Answer slowly and deliberately.

Woman-talking-at-remote-job-interview-problem-solving-questions

Preparing for an interview will make you feel more comfortable and confident during the hiring process. Rather than thinking of answers on the spot, you can pull from different responses you're already familiar with. Here are some tips for practicing and improving your answers:

Create a list of problem-solving examples from throughout your career. Consider varied past experiences that play into important skills, like time management, project management, or teamwork, to show that you're a well-rounded candidate.

Whenever possible, give metrics to show results. For example, if you improved productivity, share percentages. If you upped sales, share numbers.

Carefully study the job description and connect the skills you find with specific ways you’ve used them.

Identify what you’re good at and choose experiences that play to your strengths.

When talking about mistakes or errors, always finish with the lesson you learned and how you plan on avoiding the same mistake.

Provide details that a hiring manager can recognize within the position they’re hiring for.

Woman-shaking-hand-of-interviewer-at-office-problem-solving-questions

It’s normal to feel nervous about a job interview, especially if you’re expecting difficult questions. Learning how to overcome that challenge is the perfect way to put your problem-solving skills to the test.

Like everything else in your career, practice makes perfect, and learning to answer tough problem-solving questions is no different. Take the time to recall moments in your career when you overcame challenges, and practice telling those stories. Craft an answer that hiring managers will be excited to hear.

Boost your productivity

Maximize your time and productivity with strategies from our expert coaches.

Elizabeth Perry, ACC

Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

The 10 best work productivity tools to maximize your time

Worried about your job in a recession how to protect yourself, boost your productivity: how to avoid interruptions at work, 17 top apps to help you focus in the digital age, squirrel how to increase attention span so you get stuff done, why salary negotiation is the next skill you need to master, 20 best productivity books and why you should read them, 6 tips on how to answer promotion interview questions, 10+ virtual interview tips: from preparation to interview day, similar articles, 10 problem-solving strategies to turn challenges on their head, how to ace your second interview questions, ultra-motivated, but exhausted workers are more common than you think—here’s what to do about it, 31 examples of problem solving performance review phrases, how to answer “what motivates you” in a job interview, how to prepare for a new job and set yourself up for success, 30 interview questions for managers and how to answer them, 30 star interview method questions to prepare for, stay connected with betterup, get our newsletter, event invites, plus product insights and research..

3100 E 5th Street, Suite 350 Austin, TX 78702

Platform Overview
Integrations
Powered by AI
BetterUp Lead
BetterUp Manage™
BetterUp Care™
Sales Performance
Diversity & Inclusion
Case Studies
Why BetterUp?
About Coaching
Find your Coach
Career Coaching
Communication Coaching
Life Coaching
News and Press
Leadership Team
Become a BetterUp Coach
BetterUp Labs
Center for Purpose & Performance
Leadership Training
Business Coaching
Contact Support
Contact Sales
Privacy Policy
Acceptable Use Policy
Trust & Security
Cookie Preferences

Onsite training

3,000,000+ delegates

15,000+ clients

1,000+ locations

KnowledgePass
Log a ticket

01344203999 Available 24/7

Top 10+ Problem-Solving Interview Questions

Gain insights into mastering Problem-Solving Interview Questions and answers. Understand the nature of these questions and how to prepare effectively. Explore real-world examples of Problem-Solving Interview Questions and their solutions. Whether you're a job seeker or an interviewer, this blog will equip you with the skills needed to excel in interviews and more.

Exclusive 40% OFF

Training Outcomes Within Your Budget!

We ensure quality, budget-alignment, and timely delivery by our expert instructors.

Share this Resource

Introduction to Management
Personal & Organisational Development
Workforce Resource Planning Training
Supervisor Training
Introduction to Managing Budgets

You may be aware that, in today's competitive job market, employers seek candidates who possess strong Problem-Solving skills. Problem-Solving Questions are commonly used by hiring managers to assess a candidate's ability to think critically, analyse situations, and propose effective solutions.

In this blog, you will learn some examples of Problem-Solving Interview Questions and answers. Preparation is essential when responding to these Problem-Solving Interview Questions. This practical manual will show you some potential questions and teach you the way to respond to them. Follow this blog to succeed in your next interviews!

Table of Contents

1) Understanding Problem-Solving Interview Questions

2) How to prepare for Problem-Solving Interview Questions?

3) Examples of Problem-Solving Interview Questions and answers

a) Scenario 1: Dealing with team conflict

b) Scenario 2: Handling a challenging project

c) Scenario 3: Prioritising tasks under tight deadlines

d) Scenario 4: Implementing innovative solutions

e) Scenario 5: Overcoming resource constraints

f) Scenario 6: Dealing with ambiguity

g) Scenario 7: Resolving customer complaints

h) Scenario 8: Handling budget overruns

i) Scenario 9: Handling a high-pressure situation

j) Scenario 10: Driving continuous improvement

4) Conclusion

Understanding Problem-Solving Interview Questions

If you understand Problem-Solving Questions, you are guaranteed to have a successful interview. These questions assess a candidate's ability to handle challenges, think critically, and devise effective solutions. Employers want to gauge how candidates approach complex situations, their analytical reasoning, and their communication skills when explaining solutions.

Problem-Solving Questions can cover various scenarios, such as team conflicts, project challenges, and innovative ideas. If you demonstrate competence in solving these questions, it assures the employers that you can contribute proactively to the company's success.

Handling Problem-Solving Questions will also show the employers that you can adapt to the dynamic nature of the modern business world. Being well-prepared for these questions allows candidates like you to present themselves confidently and stand out during interviews.

How to prepare for Problem-Solving Interview Questions?

Preparing for Problem-Solving Interview Questions

1) Research the company and industry: Start by researching the company and industry to understand their challenges and objectives. You need to understand what the company and industry currently face. This knowledge will help you to tailor your responses to align with the organisation's goals and values.

2) Review common Problem-Solving scenarios: Familiarise yourself with typical workplace scenarios that require Problem-Solving skills. Consider scenarios related to team dynamics, Project Management, customer service, and innovation.

3) Practice structured responses: Craft well-structured responses to showcase your problem-solving abilities. You can use the Situation, Task, Action, Result (STAR) method to structure your answers clearly and concisely.

4) Practice analytical thinking ability: To be better prepared, you can sharpen your analytical and critical thinking skills by solving problems in various settings. You can seek feedback from mentors or friends to improve your approach to these Problem-Solving Questions.

5) Practice mock interviews: The best way to understand how you will perform in interviews is to practice mock interviews to gain confidence in delivering your answers effectively.

Gain in-depth knowledge about increasing your productivity with our Productivity and Time Management Course.

Examples of Problem-Solving Interview Questions and answers

To help you gain a broader perspective, we have prepared a list of some Problem-Solving Interviews Questions and answers. We will also discuss several examples of Problem-Solving Interview Questions and provide you with sample answers to demonstrate how to approach each scenario effectively. Let's have a detailed look at each one of them:

Scenario 1: Dealing with team conflict

Question: "Tell me about a time when you faced a conflict in your team. How did you handle it, and what was the outcome?"

You can answer this question in this way : "During a critical project, our team encountered a conflict regarding the best approach to meet our client's requirements. To address the situation, I initiated a team meeting to encourage open communication. I actively listened to each team member's perspective, ensuring that everyone felt heard and valued. We collectively identified the root cause of the conflict and focused on finding a compromise that aligned with our client's needs and the team's expertise. By fostering collaboration and maintaining a positive attitude, we were able to resolve the conflict successfully. The outcome was a stronger team bond, improved communication, and a project that exceeded our client's expectations."

Scenario 2: Handling a challenging project

Question: "Describe a project that presented significant challenges. How did you approach it, and what was the result?"

You can use this sample answer for this question: "In my previous role, we were assigned a project with high stakes, a tight deadline, and complex requirements. To tackle the challenges, I first organised a meeting with the team to create a detailed project plan. We identified potential roadblocks and allocated responsibilities based on individual strengths. Throughout the project, I ensured clear communication channels, providing team members with the necessary resources and support. We encountered unforeseen obstacles, but I encouraged a Problem-Solving mindset, fostering an environment where team members could freely propose solutions. By staying focused and proactive, we successfully completed the project on time, exceeding the client's expectations and earning commendation from senior management."

Scenario 3: Prioritising tasks under tight deadlines

Question: "How do you handle priorities and tight deadlines?"

You can answer this question in this way: "In my current role, I frequently encounter competing tasks and tight deadlines. To effectively manage such situations, I prioritise tasks based on urgency and impact. I start by creating a to-do list. This list helps in organising tasks by their deadlines. I identify critical tasks that directly contribute to project success or meet urgent client needs. I then break down complex projects into smaller manageable tasks, setting realistic milestones. If necessary, I delegate tasks to team members who possess the right expertise and empower them to take ownership. To stay on track, I utilise time management techniques, such as the Pomodoro technique. These help me to maintain focus and productivity. By managing my time wisely and staying adaptable, I consistently deliver quality results even under pressure."

Scenario 4: Implementing innovative solutions

Question: "Share an example of when you proposed an innovative solution to a long-standing problem."

You can answer this question in this way: "In my previous role, our company faced recurring inefficiencies in the customer service department. The manual process of handling customer inquiries led to delays and frustrated customers. To address this issue, I suggested implementing a self-service portal and an AI-powered chatbot. The portal allowed customers to find solutions independently, and the chatbot handled routine inquiries. This helped me in freeing up the team to focus on more complex cases. I conducted extensive research, collaborated with the IT department, and presented a detailed plan to the management team, highlighting the potential benefits and cost savings. The solution was approved, and after implementation, customer satisfaction significantly increased, and the customer service team's productivity improved. The innovative approach not only resolved a long-standing problem but also positioned the company as a forward-thinking industry leader."

Scenario 5: Overcoming resource constraints

Question: "Describe a situation where you had to achieve a goal with limited resources. How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?"

You can answer this question in this way: "In a previous project, we faced budget constraints that affected the resources available to complete the task. To address this challenge, I first assessed the project's critical needs and identified areas where we could make the most significant impact with the available resources. I collaborated with team members to brainstorm cost-effective solutions without compromising quality. We prioritised essential tasks and repurposed existing resources wherever possible. Additionally, I reached out to stakeholders and partners to explore potential collaborations and cost-sharing opportunities. By maintaining open communication and a resourceful mindset, we successfully completed the project within the budget and achieved our primary objectives. The outcome showcased our team's ability to adapt and thrive under challenging circumstances."

Take charge of your professional growth and organisational success in our Personal & Organisational Development Management Training today!

Scenario 6: Dealing with ambiguity

Question: "How do you handle situations where you lack clear direction or information?"

You can answer this question in this way: "In my experience, ambiguity is not uncommon, especially in fast-paced work environments. When faced with unclear directions, I take the initiative to seek clarification from relevant parties, such as supervisors or team members. I ask specific questions to understand the context and expectations better. Additionally, I conduct research to gather relevant information and insights, enabling me to make informed decisions. If necessary, I proactively propose potential solutions, outlining the risks and benefits related to each option. My ability to adapt quickly to dynamic circumstances and embrace ambiguity has allowed me to excel in various challenging projects."

Scenario 7: Resolving customer complaints

Question: "Tell me about a time when you successfully handled a challenging customer complaint."

Answer: "In my previous role in the hospitality industry, we received a complaint from a dissatisfied guest who had experienced a series of inconveniences during their stay. To address the situation, I empathised with the guest, actively listening to their concerns without interruption. I offered a sincere apology and assured them that we would take immediate action to rectify the issues.

I communicated with the relevant departments to address the complaints and kept the guest informed of our progress. To show our commitment to resolving the matter, I also offered them a complimentary future stay. As a result, the guest's perception of our hotel changed significantly, and they left with a positive impression, ultimately leading to increased guest satisfaction and positive online reviews."

Scenario 8: Handling budget overruns

Question: "How do you approach managing a project when it exceeds the allocated budget?"

You can answer this question in this way: "In my experience as a Project Manager, I prioritise tracking expenses regularly to identify any deviations from the budget. If I notice a potential budget overrun, I take immediate action to investigate the cause and address it proactively. This may involve reallocating resources, negotiating with suppliers, or finding cost-effective alternatives.

I communicate the situation to stakeholders and provide transparent updates on the steps being taken to mitigate the budget overage. Additionally, I evaluate the project scope and assess whether any adjustments can be made to align with the available resources. By diligently monitoring the budget and taking swift corrective actions, I ensure that the project remains financially viable and on track to achieve its objectives."

Scenario 9: Handling a high-pressure situation

Question: "Describe a time when you were under significant pressure to meet a deadline. How did you manage the situation?"

You can answer this question in this way: " Previously when I was a Marketing Manager, we faced an urgent request from a key client to deliver a comprehensive marketing campaign within an exceptionally tight timeframe. To handle the pressure, I first assembled a dedicated team with complementary skill sets to tackle the various aspects of the project. I communicated the importance of the project and the urgency to each team member, fostering a shared sense of responsibility.

I organised frequent progress meetings to keep everyone aligned and addressed any roadblocks promptly. Despite the immense pressure, we maintained a positive and supportive atmosphere, encouraging open communication and brainstorming sessions. Through the collective efforts of the team, we not only met the client's deadline but also received praise for the quality and effectiveness of the campaign."

Scenario 10: Driving continuous improvement

Question: "How do you contribute to driving continuous improvement in your work environment?"

You can answer this question in this way: "I strongly believe in the value of continuous improvement to enhance efficiency and results. In my current role, I actively participate in brainstorming sessions with colleagues to identify potential process enhancements. I encourage open feedback and suggestions from team members, promoting a culture of innovation and learning. I also stay updated on industry trends and best practices to implement relevant improvements. I closely monitor key performance indicators and gather data to assess the impact of changes. By consistently seeking opportunities for improvement and proactively implementing solutions, I contribute to the overall success of the team and the organisation."

Learn in-depth how teamwork can strengthen an organisation with our Team Development Masterclass !

Scenario 11: Team member facing discrimination

Question: How did you handle a situation when you saw that one of your team members is facing discrimination in the workplace?

You can answer this question in this manner: “When I learned that a team member was facing discrimination, I immediately recognised the severity of the situation and knew it was imperative to act swiftly. I first ensured the affected individual felt supported and understood. I also stressed that discrimination is entirely unacceptable in our team. I then initiated a confidential and sensitive investigation to uncover all relevant facts and gather any necessary evidence.

To be impartial towards the situation, I listened attentively to all sides involved and made sure that everyone felt heard. Based on my findings, I took appropriate actions, which included implementing disciplinary measures against those responsible if warranted by the investigation's outcome.

I also recognised this as an opportunity for broader learning and improvement within the team. I organised training sessions focused on diversity and inclusion, aiming to cultivate a more respectful and understanding work environment. I reinforced our commitment to an inclusive workplace by revisiting and enhancing our anti-discrimination policies.

Throughout this process, I remained available to the affected team members, offering my ongoing support and ensuring they felt safe and valued. I took this incident as a profound learning experience to foster a culture of respect and inclusion within our team. I also made it clear that discrimination has no place in our work environment.”

Scenario 12: Internal conflicts in the team

Question: How do you solve internal conflicts in your team?

You can use this sample answer: “When solving internal conflicts within my team, I start by encouraging open and respectful communication among all parties involved. I believe it's essential to provide a safe space where team members feel comfortable expressing their concerns and perspectives without fear of retaliation or judgment. I listen actively to understand the root causes of the conflict, acknowledging everyone's feelings and viewpoints.

Next, I facilitate a discussion to identify common ground and differences, guiding the team towards constructive solutions. I emphasise the importance of empathy and understanding, encouraging team members to consider each other's perspectives.

If necessary, I intervene with conflict resolution techniques tailored to the situation, such as mediation or negotiation, to help team members reach a mutual agreement. Throughout the process, I remain impartial and focused on the best interests of the team and the project.

I also recognise the importance of preventive measures. Therefore, I foster a team culture that values diversity, inclusivity, and open communication, aiming to minimise conflicts before they arise. Regular team-building activities and workshops on effective communication and conflict management skills are integral parts of this approach.

Ultimately, my goal is to ensure that the team emerges from the conflict stronger, more cohesive, and with a renewed focus on our collective objectives. I view conflict resolution not just as solving immediate disputes but as an opportunity for team growth and development.”

Scenario 13: Tight deadlines and heavy workload

Question: How do you handle tight headlines and heavy workloads?

You can answer this question in this way: “When there are tight deadlines and a heavy workload, I prioritise effective time management and clear communication as my key strategies. First, I assess the scope and urgency of all tasks and then prioritise them based on deadlines and their impact on our goals. This helps me focus on what I need to pay immediate attention to while planning for other tasks.

I then break down larger projects into manageable chunks, setting realistic milestones and deadlines for each. This approach makes the workload feel more manageable and helps maintain momentum by achieving smaller victories along the way.

I assess the strengths and capacities of my team members and delegate tasks accordingly, ensuring everyone is working efficiently and not overwhelmed. This not only optimises team productivity but also fosters a sense of responsibility and teamwork.

I maintain open lines of communication with my team and stakeholders, regularly updating them on progress and any challenges encountered. This transparency allows for timely assistance, adjustments to plans, or reallocation of resources if necessary.

To stay resilient under pressure, I make a conscious effort to manage stress. This includes taking short breaks to clear my mind, staying organised to avoid feeling overwhelmed and maintaining a healthy work-life balance to ensure I'm at my best when tackling professional challenges.

Lastly, I continuously reflect on and refine my approach to workload management. Learning from each experience allows me to enhance my strategies for handling tight deadlines and heavy workloads more effectively in the future.”

Conclusion

Knowing how to answer Problem-Solving Interview Questions is essential for success in today's competitive job market. Employers seek candidates who can tackle challenges with confidence, analytical thinking, and innovative solutions. By showcasing relevant examples and demonstrating a proactive Problem-Solving mindset, candidates can impress interviewers and increase their chances of securing their dream job.

Level up your Problem-Solving skills with our comprehensive guide on Management Training.

Frequently Asked Questions

These are the three qualities which a candidate needs to possess if they want to excel in Problem-Solving:

a) They need to approach difficult problems in an analytical manner

b) Their ability to perform under any unforeseen circumstances

c) To defend their ideas in a constructive manner when they are challenged.

The best way for HR professionals to prepare for conducting a Problem-Solving interview is to clearly define the problem, understand the role's requirements, and develop relevant, challenging scenarios or questions. Familiarising themselves with the candidates' backgrounds and creating a structured interview framework ensures a focused evaluation of problem-solving skills and fit for the position.

The Knowledge Academy’s Knowledge Pass, a prepaid voucher, adds another layer of flexibility, allowing course bookings over a 12-month period. Join us on a journey where education knows no bounds.

The Knowledge Academy takes global learning to new heights, offering over 30,000 online courses across 490+ locations in 220 countries. This expansive reach ensures accessibility and convenience for learners worldwide.

Alongside our diverse Online Course Catalogue, encompassing 17 major categories, we go the extra mile by providing a plethora of free educational Online Resources like News updates, blogs , videos, webinars, and interview questions. Tailoring learning experiences further, professionals can maximise value with customisable Course Bundles of TKA .

The Knowledge Academy offers various Management Courses , including Problem-Solving, Personal & Organisational Development and Business Process Improvement Training. These courses cater to different skill levels, providing comprehensive insights into Problem-Solving .

Our Business Skills blogs covers a range of topics related to Communication Skills, offering valuable resources, best practices, and industry insights. Whether you are a beginner or looking to advance your Communication skills, The Knowledge Academy's diverse courses and informative blogs have you covered.

Upcoming Business Skills Resources Batches & Dates

Fri 14th Jun 2024

Fri 23rd Aug 2024

Fri 11th Oct 2024

Fri 13th Dec 2024

Get A Quote

WHO WILL BE FUNDING THE COURSE?

My employer

By submitting your details you agree to be contacted in order to respond to your enquiry

Business Analysis
Lean Six Sigma Certification

Share this course

Our biggest spring sale.

We cannot process your enquiry without contacting you, please tick to confirm your consent to us for contacting you about your enquiry.

By submitting your details you agree to be contacted in order to respond to your enquiry.

We may not have the course you’re looking for. If you enquire or give us a call on 01344203999 and speak to our training experts, we may still be able to help with your training requirements.

Or select from our popular topics

ITIL® Certification
Scrum Certification
Change Management Certification
Business Analysis Courses
Microsoft Azure Certification
Microsoft Excel Courses
Microsoft Project
Explore more courses

Press esc to close

Fill out your contact details below and our training experts will be in touch.

Fill out your contact details below

Thank you for your enquiry!

One of our training experts will be in touch shortly to go over your training requirements.

Back to Course Information

Fill out your contact details below so we can get in touch with you regarding your training requirements.

* WHO WILL BE FUNDING THE COURSE?

Preferred Contact Method

No preference

Back to course information

Fill out your training details below

Fill out your training details below so we have a better idea of what your training requirements are.

HOW MANY DELEGATES NEED TRAINING?

HOW DO YOU WANT THE COURSE DELIVERED?

Online Instructor-led

Online Self-paced

WHEN WOULD YOU LIKE TO TAKE THIS COURSE?

Next 2 - 4 months

WHAT IS YOUR REASON FOR ENQUIRING?

Looking for some information

Looking for a discount

I want to book but have questions

One of our training experts will be in touch shortly to go overy your training requirements.

Your privacy & cookies!

Like many websites we use cookies. We care about your data and experience, so to give you the best possible experience using our site, we store a very limited amount of your data. Continuing to use this site or clicking “Accept & close” means that you agree to our use of cookies. Learn more about our privacy policy and cookie policy cookie policy .

We use cookies that are essential for our site to work. Please visit our cookie policy for more information. To accept all cookies click 'Accept & close'.

Skip to main content
Skip to primary sidebar
Skip to footer

Additional menu

Khan Academy Blog

Free Math Worksheets — Over 100k free practice problems on Khan Academy

Looking for free math worksheets.

You’ve found something even better!

That’s because Khan Academy has over 100,000 free practice questions. And they’re even better than traditional math worksheets – more instantaneous, more interactive, and more fun!

Just choose your grade level or topic to get access to 100% free practice questions:

Kindergarten, basic geometry, pre-algebra, algebra basics, high school geometry.

Trigonometry

Statistics and probability

High school statistics, ap®︎/college statistics, precalculus, differential calculus, integral calculus, ap®︎/college calculus ab, ap®︎/college calculus bc, multivariable calculus, differential equations, linear algebra.

Addition and subtraction
Place value (tens and hundreds)
Addition and subtraction within 20
Addition and subtraction within 100
Addition and subtraction within 1000
Measurement and data
Counting and place value
Measurement and geometry
Place value
Measurement, data, and geometry
Add and subtract within 20
Add and subtract within 100
Add and subtract within 1,000
Money and time
Measurement
Intro to multiplication
1-digit multiplication
Addition, subtraction, and estimation
Intro to division
Understand fractions
Equivalent fractions and comparing fractions
More with multiplication and division
Arithmetic patterns and problem solving
Quadrilaterals
Represent and interpret data
Multiply by 1-digit numbers
Multiply by 2-digit numbers
Factors, multiples and patterns
Add and subtract fractions
Multiply fractions
Understand decimals
Plane figures
Measuring angles
Area and perimeter
Units of measurement
Decimal place value
Add decimals
Subtract decimals
Multi-digit multiplication and division
Divide fractions
Multiply decimals
Divide decimals
Powers of ten
Coordinate plane
Algebraic thinking
Converting units of measure
Properties of shapes
Ratios, rates, & percentages
Arithmetic operations
Negative numbers
Properties of numbers
Variables & expressions
Equations & inequalities introduction
Data and statistics
Negative numbers: addition and subtraction
Negative numbers: multiplication and division
Fractions, decimals, & percentages
Rates & proportional relationships
Expressions, equations, & inequalities
Numbers and operations
Solving equations with one unknown
Linear equations and functions
Systems of equations
Geometric transformations
Data and modeling
Volume and surface area
Pythagorean theorem
Transformations, congruence, and similarity
Arithmetic properties
Factors and multiples
Reading and interpreting data
Negative numbers and coordinate plane
Ratios, rates, proportions
Equations, expressions, and inequalities
Exponents, radicals, and scientific notation
Foundations
Algebraic expressions
Linear equations and inequalities
Graphing lines and slope
Expressions with exponents
Quadratics and polynomials
Equations and geometry
Algebra foundations
Solving equations & inequalities
Working with units
Linear equations & graphs
Forms of linear equations
Inequalities (systems & graphs)
Absolute value & piecewise functions
Exponents & radicals
Exponential growth & decay
Quadratics: Multiplying & factoring
Quadratic functions & equations
Irrational numbers
Performing transformations
Transformation properties and proofs
Right triangles & trigonometry
Non-right triangles & trigonometry (Advanced)
Analytic geometry
Conic sections
Solid geometry
Polynomial arithmetic
Complex numbers
Polynomial factorization
Polynomial division
Polynomial graphs
Rational exponents and radicals
Exponential models
Transformations of functions
Rational functions
Trigonometric functions
Non-right triangles & trigonometry
Trigonometric equations and identities
Analyzing categorical data
Displaying and comparing quantitative data
Summarizing quantitative data
Modeling data distributions
Exploring bivariate numerical data
Study design
Probability
Counting, permutations, and combinations
Random variables
Sampling distributions
Confidence intervals
Significance tests (hypothesis testing)
Two-sample inference for the difference between groups
Inference for categorical data (chi-square tests)
Advanced regression (inference and transforming)
Analysis of variance (ANOVA)
Scatterplots
Data distributions
Two-way tables
Binomial probability
Normal distributions
Displaying and describing quantitative data
Inference comparing two groups or populations
Chi-square tests for categorical data
More on regression
Prepare for the 2020 AP®︎ Statistics Exam
AP®︎ Statistics Standards mappings
Polynomials
Composite functions
Probability and combinatorics
Limits and continuity
Derivatives: definition and basic rules
Derivatives: chain rule and other advanced topics
Applications of derivatives
Analyzing functions
Parametric equations, polar coordinates, and vector-valued functions
Applications of integrals
Differentiation: definition and basic derivative rules
Differentiation: composite, implicit, and inverse functions
Contextual applications of differentiation
Applying derivatives to analyze functions
Integration and accumulation of change
Applications of integration
AP Calculus AB solved free response questions from past exams
AP®︎ Calculus AB Standards mappings
Infinite sequences and series
AP Calculus BC solved exams
AP®︎ Calculus BC Standards mappings
Integrals review
Integration techniques
Thinking about multivariable functions
Derivatives of multivariable functions
Applications of multivariable derivatives
Integrating multivariable functions
Green’s, Stokes’, and the divergence theorems
First order differential equations
Second order linear equations
Laplace transform
Vectors and spaces
Matrix transformations
Alternate coordinate systems (bases)

Frequently Asked Questions about Khan Academy and Math Worksheets

Why is khan academy even better than traditional math worksheets.

Khan Academy’s 100,000+ free practice questions give instant feedback, don’t need to be graded, and don’t require a printer.

What do Khan Academy’s interactive math worksheets look like?

Here’s an example:

What are teachers saying about Khan Academy’s interactive math worksheets?

“My students love Khan Academy because they can immediately learn from their mistakes, unlike traditional worksheets.”

Is Khan Academy free?

Khan Academy’s practice questions are 100% free—with no ads or subscriptions.

What do Khan Academy’s interactive math worksheets cover?

Our 100,000+ practice questions cover every math topic from arithmetic to calculus, as well as ELA, Science, Social Studies, and more.

Is Khan Academy a company?

Khan Academy is a nonprofit with a mission to provide a free, world-class education to anyone, anywhere.

Want to get even more out of Khan Academy?

Then be sure to check out our teacher tools . They’ll help you assign the perfect practice for each student from our full math curriculum and track your students’ progress across the year. Plus, they’re also 100% free — with no subscriptions and no ads.

Get Khanmigo

The best way to learn and teach with AI is here. Ace the school year with our AI-powered guide, Khanmigo.

For learners For teachers For parents

25+ JavaScript Coding Interview Questions (SOLVED with CODE)

Having a JavaScript Coding Interview Session on this week? Fear not, we got your covered! Check that ultimate list of 25 advanced and tricky JavaScript Coding Interview Questions and Challenges to crack on your next senior web developer interview and got your next six-figure job offer in no time!

Q1 : Explain what a callback function is and provide a simple example

A callback function is a function that is passed to another function as an argument and is executed after some operation has been completed. Below is an example of a simple callback function that logs to the console after some operations have been completed.

Q2 : Given a string, reverse each word in the sentence

For example Welcome to this Javascript Guide! should be become emocleW ot siht tpircsavaJ !ediuG

Q3 : How to check if an object is an array or not? Provide some code.

The best way to find whether an object is instance of a particular class or not using toString method from Object.prototype

One of the best use cases of type checking of an object is when we do method overloading in JavaScript. For understanding this let say we have a method called greet which take one single string and also a list of string, so making our greet method workable in both situation we need to know what kind of parameter is being passed, is it single value or list of value?

However, in above implementation it might not necessary to check type for array, we can check for single value string and put array logic code in else block, let see below code for the same.

Now it's fine we can go with above two implementations, but when we have a situation like a parameter can be single value , array , and object type then we will be in trouble.

Coming back to checking type of object, As we mentioned that we can use Object.prototype.toString

If you are using jQuery then you can also used jQuery isArray method:

FYI jQuery uses Object.prototype.toString.call internally to check whether an object is an array or not.

In modern browser, you can also use:

Array.isArray is supported by Chrome 5, Firefox 4.0, IE 9, Opera 10.5 and Safari 5

Q4 : How to empty an array in JavaScript?

How could we empty the array above?

Above code will set the variable arrayList to a new empty array. This is recommended if you don't have references to the original array arrayList anywhere else because It will actually create a new empty array. You should be careful with this way of empty the array, because if you have referenced this array from another variable, then the original reference array will remain unchanged, Only use this way if you have only referenced the array by its original variable arrayList .

For Instance:

Above code will clear the existing array by setting its length to 0. This way of empty the array also update all the reference variable which pointing to the original array. This way of empty the array is useful when you want to update all the another reference variable which pointing to arrayList .

Above implementation will also work perfectly. This way of empty the array will also update all the references of the original array.

Above implementation can also empty the array. But not recommended to use often.

Q5 : How would you check if a number is an integer?

A very simply way to check if a number is a decimal or integer is to see if there is a remainder left when you divide by 1.

Q6 : Implement enqueue and dequeue using only two stacks

Enqueue means to add an element, dequeue to remove an element.

Q7 : Make this work

Q8 : write a "mul" function which will properly when invoked as below syntax.

Here mul function accept the first argument and return anonymous function which take the second parameter and return anonymous function which take the third parameter and return multiplication of arguments which is being passed in successive

In JavaScript function defined inside has access to outer function variable and function is the first class object so it can be returned by function as well and passed as argument in another function.

A function is an instance of the Object type
A function can have properties and has a link back to its constructor method
Function can be stored as variable
Function can be pass as a parameter to another function
Function can be returned from function

Q9 : Write a function that would allow you to do this?

You can create a closure to keep the value passed to the function createBase even after the inner function is returned. The inner function that is being returned is created within an outer function, making it a closure, and it has access to the variables within the outer function, in this case the variable baseNumber .

Q10 : FizzBuzz Challenge

Create a for loop that iterates up to 100 while outputting "fizz" at multiples of 3 , "buzz" at multiples of 5 and "fizzbuzz" at multiples of 3 and 5 .

Check out this version of FizzBuzz:

Q11 : Given two strings, return true if they are anagrams of one another

For example: Mary is an anagram of Army

Q12 : How would you use a closure to create a private counter?

You can create a function within an outer function (a closure) that allows you to update a private variable but the variable wouldn't be accessible from outside the function without the use of a helper function.

Q13 : Provide some examples of non-bulean value coercion to a boolean one

The question is when a non-boolean value is coerced to a boolean, does it become true or false , respectively?

The specific list of "falsy" values in JavaScript is as follows:

"" (empty string)
0 , -0 , NaN (invalid number)
null , undefined

Any value that's not on this "falsy" list is "truthy." Here are some examples of those:

[ ] , [ 1, "2", 3 ] (arrays)
{ } , { a: 42 } (objects)
function foo() { .. } (functions)

Q14 : What will be the output of the following code?

Above code would give output 1undefined . If condition statement evaluate using eval so eval(function f() {}) which return function f() {} which is true so inside if statement code execute. typeof f return undefined because if statement code execute at run time, so statement inside if condition evaluated at run time.

Above code will also output 1undefined .

Q15 : What will the following code output?

The code above will output 5 even though it seems as if the variable was declared within a function and can't be accessed outside of it. This is because

is interpreted the following way:

But b is not declared anywhere in the function with var so it is set equal to 5 in the global scope .

Q16 : Write a function that would allow you to do this

You can create a closure to keep the value of a even after the inner function is returned. The inner function that is being returned is created within an outer function, making it a closure, and it has access to the variables within the outer function, in this case the variable a .

Q17 : How does the this keyword work? Provide some code examples

In JavaScript this always refers to the “owner” of the function we're executing, or rather, to the object that a function is a method of.

Q18 : How would you create a private variable in JavaScript?

To create a private variable in JavaScript that cannot be changed you need to create it as a local variable within a function. Even if the function is executed the variable cannot be accessed outside of the function. For example:

To access the variable, a helper function would need to be created that returns the private variable.

Q19 : What is Closure in JavaScript? Provide an example

A closure is a function defined inside another function (called parent function) and has access to the variable which is declared and defined in parent function scope.

The closure has access to variable in three scopes:

Variable declared in his own scope
Variable declared in parent function scope
Variable declared in global namespace

innerFunction is closure which is defined inside outerFunction and has access to all variable which is declared and defined in outerFunction scope. In addition to this function defined inside function as closure has access to variable which is declared in global namespace .

Output of above code would be:

Q20 : What will be the output of the following code?

Above code will output 0 as output. delete operator is used to delete a property from an object. Here x is not an object it's local variable . delete operator doesn't affect local variable.

Q21 : What will be the output of the following code?

Above code will output xyz as output. Here emp1 object got company as prototype property. delete operator doesn't delete prototype property.

emp1 object doesn't have company as its own property. You can test it like:

However, we can delete company property directly from Employee object using delete Employee.company or we can also delete from emp1 object using __proto__ property delete emp1.__proto__.company .

Q22 : What will the following code output?

This will surprisingly output false because of floating point errors in internally representing certain numbers. 0.1 + 0.2 does not nicely come out to 0.3 but instead the result is actually 0.30000000000000004 because the computer cannot internally represent the correct number. One solution to get around this problem is to round the results when doing arithmetic with decimal numbers.

Q23 : When would you use the bind function?

The bind() method creates a new function that, when called, has its this keyword set to the provided value, with a given sequence of arguments preceding any provided when the new function is called.

A good use of the bind function is when you have a particular function that you want to call with a specific this value. You can then use bind to pass a specific object to a function that uses a this reference.

Q24 : Write a recursive function that performs a binary search

Q25 : describe the revealing module pattern design pattern.

A variation of the module pattern is called the Revealing Module Pattern . The purpose is to maintain encapsulation and reveal certain variables and methods returned in an object literal. The direct implementation looks like this:

An obvious disadvantage of it is unable to reference the private methods

Rust has been Stack Overflow’s most loved language for four years in a row and emerged as a compelling language choice for both backend and system developers, offering a unique combination of memory safety, performance, concurrency without Data races...

Clean Architecture provides a clear and modular structure for building software systems, separating business rules from implementation details. It promotes maintainability by allowing for easier updates and changes to specific components without affe...

Azure Service Bus is a crucial component for Azure cloud developers as it provides reliable and scalable messaging capabilities. It enables decoupled communication between different components of a distributed system, promoting flexibility and resili...

FullStack.Cafe is a biggest hand-picked collection of top Full-Stack, Coding, Data Structures & System Design Interview Questions to land 6-figure job offer in no time.

Coded with 🧡 using React in Australia 🇦🇺

by @aershov24 , Full Stack Cafe Pty Ltd 🤙, 2018-2023

Privacy • Terms of Service • Guest Posts • Contacts • MLStack.Cafe

Pre-algebra lessons
Pre-algebra word problems
Algebra lessons

Algebra word problems

Algebra proofs
Advanced algebra
Geometry lessons
Geometry word problems
Geometry proofs
Trigonometry lessons
Consumer math
Baseball math
Math for nurses
Statistics made easy
High school physics
Basic mathematics store
SAT Math Prep
Math skills by grade level
Ask an expert
Other websites
K-12 worksheets
Worksheets generator
Algebra worksheets
Geometry worksheets
Free math problem solver
Pre-algebra calculators
Algebra Calculators
Geometry Calculators
Math puzzles
Math tricks
Member login

Basic math word problems

You encounter and solve basic math word problems on a daily basis without thinking about it. Knowing how to tackle and solve word problems is an important skill in school. You may find it useful to review some math problem solving strategies .

Whole number word problems

Fractions word problems, ratio and proportion word problems .

Ratio word problems Six carefully selected ratio word problems with solutions to help you master ratios. Proportion word problems Four carefully selected proportion word problems with solutions.

Convert square feet to acres See how you can use proportion to convert square feet to acres

Percentage word problems

Average word problems.

Average word problems Word problems about finding the average from easy to challenging

Comparison word problems

Comparison word problems A variety of comparison word problems from easy to challenging

Venn diagram word problems

Venn diagram word problems A variety of word problems from easy to challenging

Have A Great Basic Math Word Problem?

Share it here with a very detailed solution!

Enter Your Title

Add a Picture/Graphic Caption (optional)

Click here to upload more images (optional)

Author Information (optional)

To receive credit as the author, enter your information below.

Submit Your Contribution

Check box to agree to these submission guidelines .
I am at least 16 years of age.
I understand and accept the privacy policy .
I understand that you will display my submission on your website.

(You can preview and edit on the next page)

What Other Visitors Have Said

Click below to see contributions from other visitors to this page...

Click here to write your own.

Recent Articles

How to divide any number by 5 in 2 seconds.

Feb 28, 24 11:07 AM

Math Trick to Square Numbers from 50 to 59

Feb 23, 24 04:46 AM

Sum of Consecutive Odd Numbers

Feb 22, 24 10:07 AM

100 Tough Algebra Word Problems. If you can solve these problems with no help, you must be a genius!

Recommended

About me :: Privacy policy :: Disclaimer :: Donate Careers in mathematics

75 Basic Programming Problems and Tutorials for Practice

Varun Saharawat is a seasoned professional in the fields of SEO and content writing. With a profound knowledge of the intricate aspects of these disciplines, Varun has established himself as a valuable asset in the world of digital marketing and online content creation.

Solving Basic Programming Problems is the key to achieve success in coding challenges. Students must practice these basic programming problems!

Basic Programming Problems: Engaging in code challenges offers many benefits, serving as a dynamic tool to enhance problem-solving proficiency, deepen your comprehension of the programming language you work with, and acquaint yourself with diverse algorithms. If you aspire to elevate your programming skills, immersing yourself in coding is the most effective avenue.

The beauty of basic programming problems lies in their convenience—they provide a platform to hone your abilities through bite-sized problems, often eliminating the need to construct entire applications. This characteristic allows you to conquer these challenges swiftly, fostering a sense of accomplishment.

Moreover, code challenges are integral components of many coding interviews.

While your resume may showcase your skills and ability to articulate programming concepts, employers want to validate your practical coding capabilities. Tackling coding challenges during interviews becomes a testament to your proficiency and showcases your competence for the role.

Therefore, incorporating coding challenges into your routine sharpens your skills and is an invaluable preparation strategy for job interviews. To kickstart your coding journey, we have curated a collection of popular basic programming problems to pave the way for your continued growth.

Table of Contents

Recommended Technical Course

Full Stack Development Course
Generative AI Course
DSA C++ Course
Data Analytics Course
Python DSA Course
DSA Java Course

Basic Programming Problems Overview

Basic programming problems provide an essential foundation for individuals learning to code, offering a practical and hands-on approach to mastering fundamental concepts in programming.

These problems are designed to introduce beginners to the core coding principles, gradually building their problem-solving skills and comprehension of programming logic.

Whether you are a novice looking to embark on your coding journey or an experienced programmer aiming to reinforce your foundational knowledge, engaging with basic programming problems is a valuable practice.

These problems typically cover essential topics such as data types, loops, conditionals, functions, and basic algorithms, providing a well-rounded introduction to the key building blocks of programming.

The significance of basic programming problems extends beyond mere skill development; it serves as a stepping stone for individuals aspiring to pursue more advanced coding challenges and projects.

By grappling with these foundational problems, learners can cultivate a solid understanding of programming fundamentals, laying the groundwork for future exploration and mastery of more complex coding concepts. Basic programming problems are the cornerstone of a programmer’s educational journey, fostering a strong and resilient coding skill set.

Basic Programming Problems for Beginners

Starting your career in the programming field is exciting and challenging. For beginners, mastering the basics is crucial, and what better way to do so than by solving basic programming problems ?

Basic Programming Problems Java

Here are some of the basic programming problems JAVA :

1) Hello World:

public class HelloWorld {

public static void main(String[] args) {

System.out.println(“Hello, World!”);

2) The sum of Two Numbers:

Add two numbers and print the result.

public class Sum {

int num1 = 5, num2 = 10, sum;

sum = num1 + num2;

System.out.println(“Sum: ” + sum);

3) Factorial of a Number:

Calculate the factorial of a number.

public class Factorial {

int num = 5;

long factorial = 1;

for (int i = 1; i <= num; ++i) {

factorial *= i;

System.out.println(“Factorial: ” + factorial);

4) Check Even or Odd:

Determine if a number is even or odd.

public class EvenOdd {

int num = 8;

if (num % 2 == 0) {

System.out.println(num + ” is even.”);

} else {

System.out.println(num + ” is odd.”);

5) Reverse a String:

Reverse the characters in a given string.

public class ReverseString {

String str = “Hello”;

StringBuilder reversed = new StringBuilder(str).reverse();

System.out.println(“Reversed String: ” + reversed);

Here are some theory-based basic programming problems Java:

1) Differences Between C++ and Java

C++: Not platform-independent, follows “write once, compile anywhere.”
Java: Platform-independent byte code allows programs to run on any machine.

Languages Compatibility:

C++: Compatible with most high-level languages.
Java: Incompatible with most languages, comparable to C and C++.

Interaction with the Library:

C++: Direct access to native system libraries, suitable for system-level programming.
Java: Requires Java Native Interface or library access, not direct call support.

Characteristics:

C++: Combines features of procedural and object-oriented languages.
Java: Known for automatic garbage collection, lacks support for destructors.

Semantics of the Type:

C++: Consistent semantics for primitive and object types.
Java: Inconsistent semantics between primitive and object types and classes.

Compiler and Interpreter:

Java: Compiled and interpreted language, source code compiles into platform-independent bytecode.
C++: Purely compiled language, source program compiles into object code, further executed.

2) Features of the Java Programming Language:

Easy: Java is considered easy to learn, with fundamental Object-Oriented Programming (OOP) concepts.
Secured Feature: Java provides a secured feature, ensuring the development of virus-free and tamper-free systems.
OOP: Java follows Object-Oriented Programming, treating everything as an object.
Independent Platform: Java compiles into platform-independent bytecode, interpreted by the Virtual Machine.

3) ClassLoader in Java:

A ClassLoader in Java is a subsystem of the Java Virtual Machine responsible for loading class files during program execution.
It is the first to load the executable file and includes Bootstrap, Extension, and Application classloaders.

4) Differences Between Heap and Stack Memory in Java:

Stack Memory: Allocated to each individual program. Fixed memory space.
Heap Memory: Not assigned to Java code initially but available during runtime. Used as needed by the Java code.

Embark on a transformative journey with our comprehensive course, “ Decode Java+DSA 1.0 ,” meticulously designed to empower you with the skills needed to excel in programming. This course seamlessly integrates Core Java and Data Structures and Algorithms (DSA), offering a holistic learning experience that lays a robust foundation for your programming journey.

Key Features:

Comprehensive Java Coverage: Delve into the intricacies of Core Java, unraveling the language’s syntax, features, and object-oriented programming concepts. From basic constructs to advanced topics, this course ensures a thorough understanding of Java.
Powerful Problem-Solving with DSA: Unlock the potential of Data Structures and Algorithms to efficiently solve complex problems. Acquire the essential tools and strategies to approach real-world challenges with confidence and precision.
Hands-On Learning: Immerse yourself in practical, hands-on exercises that reinforce theoretical concepts. Through coding exercises and projects, you’ll apply your knowledge, fostering a deeper understanding of both Java and DSA.
Expert Guidance: Benefit from expert guidance provided by seasoned instructors with extensive industry experience. Learn industry best practices and gain insights into the practical applications of Java and DSA.

Who Should Enroll:

Programming Enthusiasts
Students Pursuing Computer Science or Related Fields
Professionals Seeking to Strengthen Core Java and DSA Skills

Upon completion of “ Decode Java+DSA 1.0 ,” by PW you’ll emerge as a proficient programmer equipped with the skills to tackle diverse programming challenges. Whether you’re aiming to kickstart your programming career, enhance your academic pursuits, or upskill for professional growth, this course is your gateway to mastering Java and DSA. Elevate your programming prowess and embark on a journey of continuous learning and innovation.

Basic Programming Problems in C

The table below shows the basic programming problems in C :

Put your learning into action with hands-on projects that simulate real-world scenarios with Decode Full Stack Web Dev 1.0 by PW . From designing responsive user interfaces to implementing robust server-side functionalities, you’ll gain practical experience that enhances your proficiency.

Learn essential tools like Git for version control, ensuring collaborative and efficient development. Explore deployment strategies to showcase your applications to the world, covering platforms like Heroku.

Who Should Enroll

Aspiring Web Developers
Computer Science Students
Professionals Transitioning to Web Development
Entrepreneurs Looking to Build Web Applications

Basic Programming Problems in Python

In addition to introducing you to Python’s syntax and structure, tackling basic programming problems in Python helps you improve your problem-solving skills. With tasks ranging from basic logic puzzles to intricate algorithmic difficulties, these issues offer an interactive method of learning Python and put you on the route to becoming a skilled programmer.

Basic Programming Problems in Javascript

Whether you aim to enhance your web development skills or explore the vast world of JavaScript applications, these problems cater to beginners, guiding them through the foundational aspects of programming in this versatile language. Below table showcases the basic programming problems in Javascript :

Embark on a transformative learning experience with our comprehensive course, “Building MicroServices in Java for Cloud .”

Key Highlights

Microservices Fundamentals: Gain a solid understanding of microservices architecture, learning how to decompose large applications into smaller, independently deployable services. Explore the principles and benefits that drive the adoption of microservices in modern software development.
Java for Microservices : Leverage the power of Java to build robust microservices. Explore Java frameworks and libraries that facilitate the development of scalable and efficient microservices, ensuring seamless integration with cloud platforms.
Communication Strategies: Delve into various communication patterns and protocols essential for microservices interactions. Learn about RESTful APIs, messaging queues, and other communication mechanisms used to establish seamless communication between microservices.
Software Developers and Engineers
System Architects
Cloud Enthusiasts
Java Developers Exploring Microservices

Basic Programming Problems and Solutions

Here are 10 basic programming problems along with their solutions:

Hello World:

Problem: Write a program that prints “Hello, World!” to the console.

Solution (Python):

print(“Hello, World!”)

Sum of Two Numbers:

Problem: Write a program that inputs two numbers and prints their sum.

Solution (Java):

import java.util.Scanner;

public class SumOfTwoNumbers {

Scanner scanner = new Scanner(System.in);

System.out.print(“Enter first number: “);

int num1 = scanner.nextInt();

System.out.print(“Enter second number: “);

int num2 = scanner.nextInt();

int sum = num1 + num2;

Factorial of a Number:

Problem: Write a program to calculate the factorial of a given number.

Solution (C++):

#include <iostream>

using namespace std;

int factorial(int n) {

if (n == 0 || n == 1)

return 1;

return n * factorial(n – 1);

int main() {

int num;

cout << “Enter a number: “;

cin >> num;

cout << “Factorial: ” << factorial(num) << endl;

return 0;

Check Even or Odd:

Problem: Write a program that checks if a given number is even or odd.

Solution (JavaScript):

let number = 7;

if (number % 2 === 0) {

console.log(number + ” is even”);

console.log(number + ” is odd”);

Reverse a String:

Problem: Write a program to reverse a given string.

original_string = “Hello, World!”

reversed_string = original_string[::-1]

print(“Reversed String:”, reversed_string)

Fibonacci Series:

Problem: Generate the Fibonacci series up to a specific limit.

public class FibonacciSeries {

int limit = 10;

int firstTerm = 0, secondTerm = 1;

System.out.println(“Fibonacci Series up to ” + limit + ” terms:”);

for (int i = 1; i <= limit; ++i) {

System.out.print(firstTerm + “, “);

int nextTerm = firstTerm + secondTerm;

firstTerm = secondTerm;

secondTerm = nextTerm;

Check Prime Number:

Problem: Write a program to check if a given number is prime.

def is_prime(number):

if number > 1:

for i in range(2, int(number / 2) + 1):

if (number % i) == 0:

return False

else:

return True

return False

if is_prime(num):

print(num, “is a prime number.”)

print(num, “is not a prime number.”)

Find Maximum Element:

Problem: Write a program to find the maximum element in an array.

int findMax(int arr[], int size) {

int max = arr[0];

for (int i = 1; i < size; ++i) {

if (arr[i] > max) {

max = arr[i];

return max;

int numbers[] = {5, 8, 2, 10, 3};

int size = sizeof(numbers) / sizeof(numbers[0]);

cout << “Maximum Element: ” << findMax(numbers, size) << endl;

Palindrome Check:

Problem: Write a program to check if a given string is a palindrome.

public class PalindromeCheck {

String str = “level”;

String reversedStr = new StringBuilder(str).reverse().toString();

if (str.equals(reversedStr)) {

System.out.println(str + ” is a palindrome.”);

System.out.println(str + ” is not a palindrome.”);

Count Vowels and Consonants:

Problem: Write a program to count the number of vowels and consonants in a given string.

text = “Hello, World!”

vowels = “AEIOU

Benefits of Solving Basic Programming Problems

Solving basic programming problems offers numerous benefits for individuals looking to enhance their programming skills. Here are some key advantages:

Skill Development:

Coding Proficiency: Regular problem-solving helps improve your coding skills and fluency in programming languages.
Algorithmic Thinking: It fosters the development of algorithmic thinking, enabling you to devise efficient solutions to various problems.

Logical Thinking:

Problem Decomposition: Breaking down problems into smaller components and solving them enhances logical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
Pattern Recognition: Regular problem-solving helps in recognizing patterns and similarities between different problems, leading to more efficient solutions.

Learning New Concepts:

Exposure to Diverse Topics: Programming problems often cover a wide range of concepts, exposing you to different areas of computer science and software development.
New Algorithms and Data Structures: Exploring various problems introduces you to new algorithms and data structures, expanding your knowledge base.

Preparation for Interviews:

Technical Interviews: Many technical interviews for programming roles involve solving algorithmic and coding problems. Regular practice prepares you for such interviews and boosts your confidence.
Coding Challenges: Familiarity with common coding challenges often encountered in interviews is an asset.

Building a Portfolio:

Showcasing Skills: Solving problems allows you to build a portfolio of solutions that you can showcase to potential employers or on coding platforms.
GitHub Contributions: Uploading your solutions to platforms like GitHub demonstrates your coding proficiency and problem-solving ability.

Enhanced Efficiency:

Code Optimization: Regular practice encourages optimization, leading to more efficient and cleaner code.
Time Complexity Awareness: Problem-solving helps in understanding and considering time complexity, contributing to the creation of scalable solutions.

Community Engagement:

Online Communities: Engaging in online coding communities allows you to discuss problems, learn from others, and gain insights into alternative solutions.
Peer Learning: Collaborating with peers on coding challenges can provide different perspectives and foster a collaborative learning environment.

Career Advancement:

Competitive Edge: Building strong problem-solving skills sets you apart in a competitive job market, enhancing your employability.
Adaptability: A wide range of problem-solving experiences makes you more adaptable to different tasks and projects.

Personal Satisfaction:

Sense of Achievement: Successfully solving programming problems brings a sense of accomplishment, boosting confidence and motivation.
Continuous Learning: It fosters a mindset of continuous learning, crucial in a rapidly evolving field like programming.

In summary, regular practice of solving basic programming problems contributes significantly to skill development, logical thinking, and overall proficiency in the field of programming.

For Latest Tech Related Information, Join Our Official Free Telegram Group : PW Skills Telegram Group

What Is Required For Aws DevOps Training?

Discover the key ingredients you need for successful AWS DevOps training. Dive into cloud computing, automation, collaboration, and more to…

What Is The Best DevOps Course?

This article contains the list of the best DevOps Course of 2024, reading this article will help you get insights…

Does AWS DevOps Course Need Coding?

Are you also wondering whether the AWS DevOps Course needs Coding? Don’t worry reading this article will solve all your…

How to Make a Simple C Programs?
Angular JS What is?
What Is C In C Programming?
What is C programs in C?
What is the Program of C?
What is BootstrapCDN?
Is Azure DevOps Exam Easy?

Java Arrays
Java Strings
Java Collection
Java 8 Tutorial
Java Multithreading
Java Exception Handling
Java Programs
Java Project
Java Collections Interview
Java Interview Questions
Spring Boot
Java Exercises - Basic to Advanced Java Practice Set with Solutions

1. Write Hello World Program in Java

2. write a program in java to add two numbers., 3. write a program to swap two numbers, 4. write a java program to convert integer numbers and binary numbers..

5. Write a Program to Find Factorial of a Number in Java
6. Write a Java Program to Add two Complex Numbers

7. Write a Program to Calculate Simple Interest in Java

8. Write a Program to Print the Pascal’s Triangle in Java

9. Write a Program to Find Sum of Fibonacci Series Number

10. write a program to print pyramid number pattern in java., 11. write a java program to print pattern., 12. write a java program to print pattern., 13. java program to print patterns., 14. write a java program to compute the sum of array elements., 15. write a java program to find the largest element in array, 16. write java program to find the tranpose of matrix, 17. java array program for array rotation, 18. java array program to remove duplicate elements from an array, 19. java array program to remove all occurrences of an element in an array, 20. java program to check whether a string is a palindrome, 21. java string program to check anagram, 22. java string program to reverse a string, 23. java string program to remove leading zeros, 24. write a java program for linear search., 25. write a binary search program in java., 26. java program for bubble sort..

27. Write a Program for Insertion Sort in Java

28. Java Program for Selection Sort.

29. java program for merge sort., 30. java program for quicksort., java exercises – basic to advanced java practice programs with solutions.

Test your Java skills with our topic-wise Java exercises. As we know Java is one of the most popular languages because of its robust and secure nature. But, programmers often find it difficult to find a platform for Java Practice Online. In this article, we have provided Java Practice Programs. That covers various Java Core Topics that can help users with Java Practice.

Take a look at our free Java Exercises to practice and develop your Java programming skills. Our Java programming exercises Practice Questions from all the major topics like loops, object-oriented programming, exception handling, and many more.

List of Java Exercises

Pattern programs in java, array programs in java, string programs in java, java practice problems for searching algorithms, practice problems in java sorting algorithms.

Practice More Java Problems

Java Practice Programs

This Java exercise is designed to deepen your understanding and refine your Java coding skills, these programs offer hands-on experience in solving real-world problems, reinforcing key concepts, and mastering Java programming fundamentals. Whether you’re a beginner who looking to build a solid foundation or a professional developer aiming to sharpen your expertise, our Java practice programs provide an invaluable opportunity to sharpen your craft and excel in Java programming language .

The solution to the Problem is mentioned below:

Click Here for the Solution

5. write a program to find factorial of a number in java., 6. write a java program to add two complex numbers., 8. write a program to print the pascal’s triangle in java.

Time Complexity: O(N) Space Complexity: O(N)

Time Complexity: O(logN) Space Complexity: O(N)

Time Complexity: O(N 2 ) Space Complexity: O(1)

27. Write a Program for Insertion Sort in Java.

Time Complexity: O(N logN) Space Complexity: O(N)

Time Complexity: O(N logN) Space Complexity: O(1)

After completing these Java exercises you are a step closer to becoming an advanced Java programmer. We hope these exercises have helped you understand Java better and you can solve beginner to advanced-level questions on Java programming.

Solving these Java programming exercise questions will not only help you master theory concepts but also grasp their practical applications, which is very useful in job interviews.

More Java Practice Exercises

Java Array Exercise Java String Exercise Java Collection Exercise To Practice Java Online please check our Practice Portal. <- Click Here

FAQ in Java Exercise

1. how to do java projects for beginners.

To do Java projects you need to know the fundamentals of Java programming. Then you need to select the desired Java project you want to work on. Plan and execute the code to finish the project. Some beginner-level Java projects include: Reversing a String Number Guessing Game Creating a Calculator Simple Banking Application Basic Android Application

2. Is Java easy for beginners?

As a programming language, Java is considered moderately easy to learn. It is unique from other languages due to its lengthy syntax. As a beginner, you can learn beginner to advanced Java in 6 to 18 months.

3. Why Java is used?

Java provides many advantages and uses, some of which are: Platform-independent Robust and secure Object-oriented Popular & in-demand Vast ecosystem

Please Login to comment...

Improve your Coding Skills with Practice

What kind of Experience do you want to share?

IMAGES

What Is Problem-Solving? Steps, Processes, Exercises to do it Right
The 5 Steps of Problem Solving
39 Best Problem-Solving Examples (2024)
Developing Problem-Solving Skills for Kids
Introduction to Problem Solving Skills
3 Tips for Effective Problem Solving

VIDEO

Problem solving question ☺️☺️ #javascript #coder #explore #trending #code
Problem solving question #13 of #javascript #development #shorts
Problem solving question #26 of #javascript #shorts #interview #coding
Problem solving question #6 of #javascript #shorts
Problem solving question #21 of #javascript #shorts #interview #coding #dev
javascript basic problem solving session

COMMENTS

15 Common Problem-Solving Interview Questions
Here are a few examples of technical problem-solving questions: 1. Mini-Max Sum. This well-known challenge, which asks the interviewee to find the maximum and minimum sum among an array of given numbers, is based on a basic but important programming concept called sorting, as well as integer overflow.
Top 20 Problem Solving Interview Questions (Example Answers Included)
MIKE'S TIP: When you're answering this question, quantify the details. This gives your answer critical context and scale, showcasing the degree of challenge and strength of the accomplishment. That way, your answer is powerful, compelling, and, above all, thorough. 2. Describe a time where you made a mistake.
50 Interview Questions About Problem Solving (With Answers)
Demonstrating your ability to tackle challenges effectively can set you apart from other applicants. Here are five tips to help you showcase your problem-solving skills during an interview: 1. Use the STAR Method. Structure your responses using the Situation, Task, Action, and Result (STAR) method.
10 Proven Problem-solving Interview Questions [+Answers]
5. Recall a time when you successfully used crisis-management skills. This question assesses candidates' ability to remain calm and make effective decisions under pressure. Look for their problem-solving approach and their ability to handle high-stress situations.
8 Common Problem-Solving Interview Questions and Answers
2. Tell me about a time when you faced an unexpected challenge at work. Tip: For this question, you'll want to choose a specific example from your work history to demonstrate your ability to be flexible while solving problems. To stay focused, you can use the STAR method to answer this question.
Problem-Solving Interview Questions And Answers (With Examples)
Problem-solving questions are used to focus on a candidates past experience with managing conflicts and overcoming obstacles in the workplace. When answering these questions, be sure to make your answer relevant to the position that you are applying to and be honest about your strengths and weaknesses. Be sure to provide examples from previous ...
10 Problem-Solving Interview Questions [Updated 2024]
What to look for in an answer: Understands problem-solving skills. Creative thinking. Communicates ideas well. Example: "In my opinion, creative thinking, determination, reasoning and decisive action are all qualities that good problem-solvers have.
Top 20 Problem Solving Interview Questions & Answers
8. Detail how you've handled a scenario where team members disagreed on the solution to a problem. Navigating team disagreements can reflect deeper dynamics such as power struggles, communication breakdowns, or diverse perspectives. This question helps understand how a candidate resolves conflicts and builds consensus.
6 Common Problem-Solving Interview Questions and Answers
This question is aimed at understanding your conflict resolution skills and ability to work well in a team. Describe a specific instance where your team faced a conflict and explain the steps you took to address the issue, making sure to highlight your communication and collaboration skills. Example: "When I was leading a team project, two ...
Problem-Solving Questions You Should Prepare for Your Next Interview
Common problem-solving questions and answers. Every job requires problem-solving on some level, so you can expect at least one job interview question to ask about those skills. Here are a few common problem-solving interview questions to practice: 1. Give us an example of when you faced an unexpected challenge at work.
Top 10+ Problem-Solving Interview Questions
3) Examples of Problem-Solving Interview Questions and answers. a) Scenario 1: Dealing with team conflict. b) Scenario 2: Handling a challenging project. c) Scenario 3: Prioritising tasks under tight deadlines. d) Scenario 4: Implementing innovative solutions. e) Scenario 5: Overcoming resource constraints.
What is Problem Solving? Steps, Process & Techniques
Finding a suitable solution for issues can be accomplished by following the basic four-step problem-solving process and methodology outlined below. Step. Characteristics. 1. Define the problem. Differentiate fact from opinion. Specify underlying causes. Consult each faction involved for information. State the problem specifically.
Problems
Boost your coding interview skills and confidence by practicing real interview questions with LeetCode. Our platform offers a range of essential problems for practice, as well as the latest questions being asked by top-tier companies.
Free Math Worksheets
Khan Academy's 100,000+ free practice questions give instant feedback, don't need to be graded, and don't require a printer. Math Worksheets. Khan Academy. Math worksheets take forever to hunt down across the internet. Khan Academy is your one-stop-shop for practice from arithmetic to calculus. Math worksheets can vary in quality from ...
25+ JavaScript Coding Interview Questions (SOLVED with CODE)
FullStack.Cafe is a biggest hand-picked collection of top Full-Stack, Coding, Data Structures & System Design Interview Questions to land 6-figure job offer in no time. Check 25+ JavaScript Coding Interview Questions (SOLVED with CODE) and Land Your Next Six-Figure Job Offer! 100% Tech Interview Success!
Basic Math Word Problems
Maria has 2 electronic beepers. One beeps after every 5 seconds and the second beeps after every 9 second. 1) At what time both beepers will beep at …. find consecutive odd positive integers Not rated yet. The sum of squares of two consecutive odd positive integers is 202.
Python Exercise with Practice Questions and Solutions
The best way to learn is by practising it more and more. The best thing about this Python practice exercise is that it helps you learn Python using sets of detailed programming questions from basic to advanced. It covers questions on core Python concepts as well as applications of Python in various domains.
75 Basic Programming Problems and Tutorials for Practice
Basic Programming Problems: Engaging in code challenges offers many benefits, serving as a dynamic tool to enhance problem-solving proficiency, deepen your comprehension of the programming language you work with, and acquaint yourself with diverse algorithms. If you aspire to elevate your programming skills, immersing yourself in coding is the most effective avenue.
Basic Programming Problems
Learn Programming - How To Code. In the world of programming, mastering the fundamentals is key to becoming a proficient developer.In this article, we will explore a variety of basic programming problems that are essential for every aspiring coder to understand. By delving into these foundational challenges, you will gain valuable insights into problem-solving techniques and build a strong ...
Java Exercises
We hope these exercises have helped you understand Java better and you can solve beginner to advanced-level questions on Java programming. Solving these Java programming exercise questions will not only help you master theory concepts but also grasp their practical applications, which is very useful in job interviews. More Java Practice Exercises
21 Behavioral Interview Questions and How to Respond
Hiring managers are often invested in finding someone who has the skills and experience to do the job and who will be a good fit, complementing the general personality of their team and the company's larger workplace culture.Behavioral interview questions help your interviewers better understand who you are and how you work. Unlike situational interview questions, which ask you about ...