2000+ Analyst Interview Questions and Answers

Trans-shipment problem can be solved in Excel Solver by setting up a linear programming model.

• Define decision variables for the amount of goods to be shipped between each pair of locations.

• Set up constraints to ensure that the supply and demand at each location are met.

• Add constraints to limit the amount of goods that can be shipped through intermediate locations.

• Define the objective function to minimize the total cost of shipping.

• Use Excel Solver to find the optimal solution...read more

The price of a barrier option is generally less than a normal option.

• Barrier options have a condition that must be met for the option to be activated, which reduces the likelihood of the option being exercised.

• This reduced likelihood of exercise means that barrier options are generally cheaper than normal options.

• However, the price of a barrier option can vary depending on the specific conditions and terms of the option.

• For example, a knock-in barrier option may be more expen...read more

Hashing is a technique to convert data of arbitrary size to a fixed size. Hash table is a data structure that uses hashing to store data.

• Hashing is used to index and retrieve items in a database because it is faster than other methods.

• Hash table is a data structure that uses a hash function to map keys to array indices.

• Hashing key is the input to the hash function that produces a hash value.

• Hashing is used in password storage, checksum generation, and data encryption.

I am passionate about applying my mathematical skills to solve complex problems in the field of analysis.

• I believe that my strong mathematical background provides me with a solid foundation for analytical work.

• Mathematics has taught me critical thinking, problem-solving, and data analysis skills that are essential for an analyst role.

• I enjoy working with numbers and using mathematical models to gain insights and make informed decisions.

• My CPI reflects my dedication and hard w...read more

Filtering data in PySpark based on a particular condition.

• Use the filter() function to filter data based on a condition.

• Conditions can be specified using logical operators such as ==, >, <, etc.

• Multiple conditions can be combined using logical operators such as and, or, not.

• Example: df.filter(df['age'] > 25).filter(df['gender'] == 'Male')

• This will filter the data where age is greater than 25 and gender is Male.

I would like to add a feature that suggests nearby events and attractions based on user preferences.

• Personalized event and attraction recommendations

• Integration with ticketing platforms for revenue sharing

• Increased user engagement and retention

To create a form in React JS and monitor value changes, you can use state to store form data and handle onChange events.

• Use state to store form data

• Handle onChange events to update state with new values

• Use controlled components to ensure form data is synced with state

The Indian economy has experienced mixed performance in the past 2 years.

• GDP growth rate has fluctuated

• Demonetization and GST implementation impacted the economy

• Unemployment rate has been a concern

• Inflation has remained relatively low

• Foreign direct investment has increased

• Agricultural sector faced challenges due to weather conditions

P2P process involves procurement of goods/services from a supplier and payment to the supplier.

• P2P stands for Procure-to-Pay process

• It involves identifying the need for goods/services, selecting a supplier, creating a purchase order, receiving the goods/services, and making payment to the supplier

• The audit of P2P process involves reviewing the controls in place to ensure accuracy and completeness of transactions, verifying the existence of proper documentation, and testing th...read more

The Convex Hull is the smallest convex polygon that encloses all given points.

• Sort the points based on their x-coordinate.

• Find the upper hull by starting from the leftmost point and moving clockwise.

• Find the lower hull by starting from the rightmost point and moving counterclockwise.

• Combine the upper and lower hulls to form the convex hull.

The amount of sand in a hole of dimension x on a beach cannot be determined without additional information.

• The volume of sand in the hole depends on the depth of the hole as well as its length and width.

• To calculate the volume, the formula V = lwh can be used, where l is the length, w is the width, and h is the depth of the hole.

• Without knowing the specific dimensions of the hole, it is impossible to determine the amount of sand it contains.

Yes, it is possible to decompile bytecode in Java back to the original code.

• Decompilation is the process of converting bytecode back to its original source code.

• There are several tools available for decompiling Java bytecode, such as JD-GUI, FernFlower, and Procyon.

• Decompiling bytecode can be useful for understanding how a program works, reverse engineering, or debugging.

• However, the decompiled code may not be an exact replica of the original source code, as some information ...read more

Ps -ef lists all processes, strace command traces system calls, tar is used for archiving files, /etc/motd displays message of the day.

• Ps -ef command lists all processes running on the system

• Strace command is used to trace system calls made by a process

• Tar command is used to archive files and directories

• To uncompress a file without extracting it, you can use 'tar -xOzf file.tar.gz | less' to view the contents without extracting

• /etc/motd is a file that displays a message of th...read more

I have used various flavors of Linux such as Ubuntu, CentOS, and Fedora. Telnet is insecure while SSH is secure. NFS is a network file system with port number 2049. Ncat is a networking utility for reading and writing data across networks.

• Flavors of Linux I have used include Ubuntu, CentOS, and Fedora

• Telnet is insecure as it sends data in plain text, while SSH encrypts data for secure communication

• NFS (Network File System) allows sharing files/folders over a network, using po...read more

A derivative is a financial instrument whose value is derived from an underlying asset. Types include futures, options, and swaps.

• A derivative is a contract between two parties based on an underlying asset.

• It derives its value from the performance of the underlying asset.

• Common types of derivatives include futures, options, forwards, and swaps.

• Derivatives are used for hedging, speculation, and arbitrage.

• Examples of derivatives include stock options, commodity futures, and int...read more

Linux is an open-source operating system known for its security features. DNS is a system that translates domain names to IP addresses. Hosting a webpage in Linux involves setting up a web server.

• Linux is an open-source operating system that is considered more secure due to its strong user permissions system and regular security updates.

• To secure a Linux server, best practices include keeping the system updated, using strong passwords, limiting user access, and implementing f...read more

final keyword is used to declare a constant value while finally is used to define a block of code that will be executed after a try-catch block.

• final keyword is used to declare a variable whose value cannot be changed

• finally keyword is used to define a block of code that will be executed after a try-catch block

• final can be used with classes, methods, and variables

• finally is always used with try-catch block

• Example: final int x = 10; try { //some code } catch(Exception e) { //s...read more

What is the most likely value of the last roll in a game where a die is rolled until the sum of all rolls is at least 100?

• The last roll must be at least 4 to reach a sum of 100

• The probability of rolling a 4, 5, or 6 is 1/2

• The most likely value of the last roll is 4 or 5

You can buy fuel from us through our fuel card program.

• We offer a fuel card program that allows you to purchase fuel from our network of stations.

• Our fuel card program offers discounts and rewards for frequent users.

• You can easily track your fuel expenses and usage through our online portal.

• We also offer customized fuel solutions for businesses and fleets.

• Our fuel is high-quality and meets all industry standards.

Increasing stock volatility increases the price of a call option.

• Higher volatility means higher potential for the stock to move in the option holder's favor, increasing the option's value

• The option's delta and gamma will also increase with higher volatility

• Example: If a call option on a stock with a strike price of $50 has a premium of $2 when the stock has a volatility of 20%, increasing the volatility to 30% may increase the premium to $2.50 or higher

Basic elements of pricing include cost, competition, value, and demand. Cost control and profitability can be improved through strategic pricing decisions.

• Cost: Consider all costs associated with producing and selling a product or service.

• Competition: Analyze the pricing strategies of competitors and adjust accordingly.

• Value: Determine the perceived value of the product or service to the customer.

• Demand: Understand the market demand for the product or service.

• Cost control: Re...read more

Object-oriented language is a programming paradigm that uses objects to represent data and methods.

• Objects contain data and methods that operate on that data.

• Encapsulation, inheritance, and polymorphism are key concepts in object-oriented programming.

• Examples of object-oriented languages include Java, C++, and Python.

The probability of element at 20th position landing up at 31st position after the first iteration.

• The probability depends on the size of the dataset and the algorithm used for iteration.

• If the algorithm involves swapping adjacent elements, the probability is higher.

• If the dataset is sorted in a way that the element at 20th position is adjacent to the element at 31st position, the probability is 1.

• The probability can be calculated using combinatorics and probability theory.

Agile is my preferred way of accepting changes from the customer.

• Agile allows for continuous feedback and collaboration with the customer

• Waterfall can lead to delays and misunderstandings

• Agile promotes flexibility and adaptability to changing requirements

• Examples: Scrum, Kanban, Lean

Find the total number of possible combinations in the given order.

• The value of a+b is 10, so a and b can be any two numbers that add up to 10.

• The value of a+b+c is also 10, so c can be any number that makes the sum of a, b, and c equal to 10.

• Similarly, the value of a+b+c+d is 10, so d can be any number that makes the sum of a, b, c, and d equal to 10.

• To find the total number of possible combinations, we need to consider all the possible values of a, b, c, and d that satisfy t...read more

Sales prediction can be made using machine learning algorithms and statistical models.

• Collect and clean relevant data

• Choose appropriate algorithm or model

• Train the model using historical data

• Validate the model using test data

• Use the model to predict future sales

• Continuously monitor and update the model

• Examples: linear regression, decision trees, neural networks

I don't have the available data to answer this question.

Use online maps or directories to find the number of petrol pumps in the city.

• Search for petrol pumps on online maps like Google Maps or MapQuest.

• Use online directories like Yelp or Yellow Pages to find petrol pumps in the city.

• Check with local authorities or city websites for a list of petrol pumps in the area.

• Ask locals or taxi drivers for recommendations on petrol pumps in the city.

To troubleshoot a C drive running out of space, check for large files, uninstall unnecessary programs, clear temporary files, and consider expanding storage capacity.

• Check for large files that can be deleted or moved to another drive

• Uninstall unnecessary programs to free up space

• Clear temporary files using disk cleanup tools

• Consider expanding storage capacity by adding a new hard drive or using external storage

The validity of the second data set can be verified by comparing it with the first data set.

• Compare the variables in both data sets to ensure they are the same.

• Check if the number of policies in the second data set matches the number stated.

• Perform statistical analysis on both data sets to identify any discrepancies or inconsistencies.

• Validate the accuracy of the second data set by cross-referencing it with external sources or known benchmarks.

AML analysis is the process of identifying and preventing money laundering activities through online transaction monitoring.

• AML analysis involves the identification of suspicious transactions and the assessment of their risk levels.

• The process includes collecting and analyzing transaction data, conducting customer due diligence, and reporting any suspicious activities to regulatory authorities.

• Online monitoring of transactions involves real-time tracking of financial transact...read more

Use binary search method to identify contaminated pills in the jar.

• Divide the pills into two equal groups and test one group. If contaminated, test each pill individually. If not contaminated, repeat the process with the other group.

• Continue dividing and testing until the contaminated pills are identified with the least number of tests.

• Example: If there are 100 pills, start by testing 50 pills. If contaminated, test each of the 50 pills individually. If not contaminated, divi...read more

Covariance measures the relationship between two variables. It measures sensitivity by indicating the direction of the relationship.

• Covariance is a statistical measure that shows how two variables are related to each other.

• It measures the direction of the relationship between two variables.

• A positive covariance indicates that the two variables move in the same direction.

• A negative covariance indicates that the two variables move in opposite directions.

• Volatility is a measure ...read more

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) regulates markets in the US. Their responsibilities include enforcing federal securities laws, protecting investors, and maintaining fair and orderly markets.

• The SEC is responsible for overseeing securities exchanges such as the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and NASDAQ.

• They enforce laws such as the Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

• The SEC also regulates investment advisers, mutual funds, and other inv...read more

Foreign elevator company incurring losses in India. Likely issues and solutions?

• Lack of understanding of local market and culture

• Competition from established local players

• Inefficient supply chain and logistics

• Poor after-sales service

• Possible solutions include partnering with local companies, improving supply chain, and enhancing after-sales service

• Conducting market research to better understand the needs and preferences of Indian customers

Inheritance in Java allows a class to inherit properties and methods from another class, promoting code reuse.

• Inheritance is achieved using the 'extends' keyword in Java.

• The class that is being inherited from is called the superclass or parent class.

• The class that inherits from the superclass is called the subclass or child class.

• The subclass can access the public and protected members of the superclass.

• Inheritance promotes code reuse and allows for the creation of more speci...read more

A company profile for competitor analysis should include key information such as industry, size, revenue, market share, products/services, and strengths/weaknesses.

• Identify the industry and market the competitor operates in

• Determine the size of the competitor in terms of revenue, employees, and market share

• Analyze the competitor's products/services and pricing strategy

• Identify the strengths and weaknesses of the competitor, such as brand reputation, customer base, and marketi...read more

Our strategy for spend analysis and cost reduction involves a thorough review of all expenses and identifying areas for optimization.

• Conduct a comprehensive analysis of all expenses

• Identify areas for optimization and cost reduction

• Negotiate with vendors for better pricing and terms

• Implement cost-saving measures such as process improvements and automation

• Regularly review and update the strategy to ensure continued success

Limitations of liability, force majeure, indemnity, procurement, sourcing, termination at cause and convenience are legal terms.

• Limitations of liability refers to the maximum amount of damages that a party can be held liable for in case of breach of contract.

• Force majeure refers to unforeseeable circumstances that prevent a party from fulfilling their contractual obligations.

• Indemnity is a legal agreement where one party agrees to compensate the other party for any losses or ...read more

CPI stands for Consumer Price Index, not the same as Grade Point Average (GPA).

• CPI is a measure of the average change over time in the prices paid by urban consumers for a market basket of consumer goods and services.

• It is used to track inflation and price changes in the economy.

• GPA, on the other hand, is a measure of academic performance and represents a student's average grade point across courses.

• CPI and GPA are completely different concepts and have no relation to each ot...read more

Find the magic number in a sorted array where value and index are same.

• Iterate through the array and check if the value and index are same

• If found, return the value

• If not found, return -1

The number of airplanes taking off from Delhi airport daily is not available.

• The exact number of airplanes taking off from Delhi airport each day is not publicly available.

• The number of flights can vary depending on the day of the week and time of day.

• Factors such as weather conditions and air traffic can also affect the number of flights.

• However, Delhi airport is one of the busiest airports in India and handles a large number of domestic and international flights.

• In 2019, th...read more

Solving two jug problems to obtain a specified amount of water using differently sized jugs.

• Understand the capacity of each jug

• Determine the amount of water needed

• Fill one jug with water and pour it into the other jug

• Repeat until the desired amount is reached

• Use the remaining water in the larger jug to measure the remaining amount needed

• Consider the possibility of multiple solutions

To deploy a web application on Apache Tomcat, the application needs to be packaged as a WAR file and then deployed to the Tomcat server.

• Create a WAR file of the web application

• Copy the WAR file to the Tomcat webapps directory

• Start the Tomcat server

• Access the web application using the URL http://localhost:8080/

• Collections in Java are classes that implement collections of objects, such as lists, sets, and maps

Repo/reverse repo rate is the rate at which RBI lends/borrows money from banks. Current value varies.

• Repo rate is the rate at which RBI lends money to commercial banks

• Reverse repo rate is the rate at which RBI borrows money from commercial banks

• These rates are used to control inflation and liquidity in the economy

• Current repo rate is 4.00% and reverse repo rate is 3.35% as of August 2021

The most likely number to occur as the final sum is 100.

• The sum of the outcomes of the dice rolls will keep increasing until it reaches or exceeds 100.

• Since the dice have equal probabilities for each outcome, the sum will have a higher chance of reaching 100.

• The probability of rolling a sum greater than 100 decreases as the sum gets larger.

Finding f(n) for a normal standard distribution with a given constant k.

• Calculate the product of probability density function and cumulative distribution function.

• Integrate the product of f(x) and F(kx) from -inf to +inf.

• The value of k is a constant greater than 0.