Indeed, I'd be fine if it was only one algo question in the whole process. Unfortunately we're talking about one, sometimes 2 technical phone screens. Then 4-5

Indeed, I'd be fine if it was only one algo question in the whole process. Unfortunately we're talking about one, sometimes 2 technical phone screens. Then 4-5 tehnical interviews onsite. You have to deal with data structures/algo crap the whole time (30 minute each) which is not only painful, but it's extremely annoying and pointless. Regarding books vs real world practice - I came a lot more confident by going through the process a few times talking to real interviewers. It's not only you and your laptop and zero stress. This make a big difference in boosting your confidence level.