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Here is an interesting idea that I had reading this. As a startup, what if you were to create a simple computer language that looked different from most other c
by x0054 13y ago
Here is an interesting idea that I had reading this. As a startup, what if you were to create a simple computer language that looked different from most other computer languages, at least somewhat different. Alternatively, just use one of the many really obscure programming languages out there, just make sure the applicant does not know it ahead of time. Give the applicant a 10-20 page reference manual for the language and ask them to make a simple program of some sort. Have them read the manual and write the program, hopefully while not looking over their shoulder, so they can relax. In the manual you give them omit one critical function or API reference, but make sure that info is available online (make it available if you made up the language). Then see what happens.
This would test programmers ability to learn a new language.
- seanmcdirmid 13y agoYou would be testing them on the ability to learn a new language. You could test the same abilities using just a custom library. This is a test I used to use on intern candidates. I didn't even provide documentation, just examples of API usages, and was testing their ability to learn from example.
- Tichy 13y agoHm, maybe if I ever have to hire somebody I'll challenge them to a Corewar duel :-) Before the internet my friends and I sometimes used to get to together, everybody got some time to write a Corewar warrior on paper, and then we'd watch the tournament together. It was great fun.
- collyw 13y agoIt takes me a month or two to be comfortable with a new language. How long do you expect your interview to last?
- _ak 13y agoI guess that proposed interview is supposed to get people out of their comfort zone and test whether how quickly they can adapt and learn from a manual and simple examples and then at least be able to write simple programs.