Scale Engineer

Software Engineer

Software EngineerL1Medium

This interview process is designed to assess candidates for an entry-level Software Engineer position at Notion. It focuses on fundamental programming skills, problem-solving abilities, and cultural fit.

Rounds·3

Timeline·~7d

Experience·0 - 2 yrs

Comp band·US$85000 - US$110000

Interview time·150 min

Evaluation

What they measure.

  • Problem-solving approach
  • Code quality and efficiency
  • Understanding of data structures and algorithms
  • Ability to explain technical concepts clearly

Preparation

How to prepare.

Tips

  1. Review fundamental data structures (arrays, linked lists, trees, graphs, hash maps) and algorithms (sorting, searching, recursion, dynamic programming).
  2. Practice coding problems on platforms like LeetCode, HackerRank, or Coderbyte, focusing on easy and medium difficulty.
  3. Understand basic object-oriented programming (OOP) principles.
  4. Prepare to discuss your past projects, highlighting your contributions and the technologies used.
  5. Research Notion's mission, values, and products.
  6. Practice answering common behavioral questions using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).

Study plan

Fig · Study plan — 04 phases

01 / 04
01

Phase 01 of 04

Data Structures Fundamentals

Weeks 1-2: Data Structures (Arrays, Linked Lists, Stacks, Queues, Hash Maps) & Basic Sorting/Searching Algorithms.

Weeks 1-2: Focus on core data structures like arrays, linked lists, stacks, queues, and hash maps. Practice implementing them and solving problems involving their efficient use. Cover basic sorting algorithms (bubble sort, insertion sort, merge sort, quicksort) and searching algorithms (binary search).

Questions

Commonly asked.

  • What are the differences between an abstract class and an interface?
  • Explain the concept of recursion with an example.
  • How would you design a URL shortener?
  • Describe a time you faced a conflict within a team and how you resolved it.
  • What interests you about working at Notion?
  • Write a function to reverse a linked list.
  • What is Big O notation and why is it important?
  • Tell me about a project you are proud of.

Locations

Regional differences.

Fig · Regions — 02 locations

01 / 02

Location

Remote

Interview focus

Understanding of core computer science concepts.Ability to articulate thought process clearly.Enthusiasm for learning and growth.

Common questions

  • Tell me about a challenging project you worked on during your studies.
  • How do you approach learning a new programming language or technology?
  • Describe a time you had to collaborate with a team on a technical project.

Tips

  • Be prepared to discuss academic projects in detail.
  • Showcase your passion for technology and problem-solving.
  • Research Notion's products and values.

Rounds

Round-by-round.

Expand a step for evaluation criteria, sample questions, and prep notes.

DSA

Coding questions at Notion.

Frequently reported on Notion loops

View all at Notion

Other guides

More at Notion.