Graduate Software Engineer Interview Questions and Answers

Arrays are fixed in size and contiguous in memory, while linked lists are dynamic and non-contiguous.

• Arrays have constant time access to elements, while linked lists require traversal.

• Arrays are better for random access, while linked lists are better for insertion and deletion.

• Arrays use less memory overhead, while linked lists use more due to pointers.

• Examples: array of integers vs linked list of nodes.

• Examples: array of characters vs linked list of strings.

Explaining algorithms for various problem statements

• For sorting: bubble sort, insertion sort, merge sort, quick sort

• For searching: linear search, binary search

• For graph traversal: breadth-first search, depth-first search

• For dynamic programming: Fibonacci sequence, knapsack problem

• For string manipulation: string reversal, palindrome check

Memory management in linked lists involves allocation and deallocation of nodes.

• Dynamic memory allocation is used to create nodes in a linked list.

• Memory leaks can occur if nodes are not properly deallocated.

• Freed memory should be returned to the operating system using free() function.

• Using a garbage collector can automate memory management in linked lists.

Numerical methods are mathematical techniques used by engineers to solve complex problems.

• Numerical methods involve approximating solutions to mathematical problems using algorithms and computer programs.

• Common numerical methods used by engineers include finite element analysis, numerical integration, and optimization algorithms.

• These methods are used to solve problems in fields such as structural engineering, fluid dynamics, and electromagnetics.

• Numerical methods are essenti...read more

Optimization of variable is the process of finding the best value for a variable to achieve a desired outcome.

• Define the objective function and constraints

• Choose an optimization algorithm

• Iteratively adjust the variable until the optimal solution is found

• Examples: gradient descent, linear programming