So another one to consider: It is not about a "higher" bar as much as a more "standardized" bar and more importantly to weed out the "uncompliant" ones. Leetc

So another one to consider: It is not about a "higher" bar as much as a more "standardized" bar and more importantly to weed out the "uncompliant" ones. Leetcoding style preparation is pretty much a 2-3 hour a day over 1-2 months ordeal (given or take). Which means those who are seeking the types who have the time to invest in this repeatedly. This translates your willingness to be part of the time no questions asked. Worse this is not one off. No matter your expertise/experience level, unless you are doing this everyday for fun, you need to invest to stay sharp. Guess how many family folks actually have this kind of time? I consider myself a reasonably experienced engineer -both from a ton of side projects for fun and with long stints at faangs + being on both sides of the interview table (note I said experienced, not "great") and i still have to devote 2-3 weeks of ~4 hours each day leetcoding each time I change roles. Would be impossible if family wasn't so forgiving! Back to your point. These kind of interviews have little to do with bar and more about companies know they can put you through it and to hire those who are willing to give it all up for the co! They don't want (or know what to do with) the next woz. Someone who will follow the rubrics will do.