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Is it cheating if you use the same tools to solve a problem as you would in a job? "No calculators" is lame when the job entails using calculators.

• jvanderbot 2y ago
  Yes I think it is. Math, which is more than arithmetic, is still important in the age of calculators. Using a tool does not substitute for clear thinking and deep experience, which is what they're trying to test for.
  • bredren 2y ago
    Leet code interviews are passed by having invested time practicing at leetcode interviews. They may but do not necessarily test for clear thinking and deep experience.
    • jvanderbot 2y ago
      We're going to disagree on this, but I have had situations arise at least once every 6 months where someone at work, or I, had to decompose a problem or come up with some critical code in exactly the same way as a LC interview. There is something very frustrating about living this experience and being surrounded by folks who refuse to admit it is real. Those same folks who couldn't help in those times. It's fine, it's not always required for every job, but I sure as heck would appreciate working with folks who can describe set cover or what have you. I work where I work though. So, it's different all over. But to unilaterally say it's invalid is just plain wrong.
      • hiatus 2y ago
        In what situation would you be decomposing a problem or coming up with critical code in the same way as a leetcode interview? Are you saying you have had to come up with solutions without access to additional resources like the internet?
        • bredren 2y ago
          Or the stakes were such that if the problem was not solved in a short period of time your job was truly at stake?