If you’re planning to use AI to ace your next coding interview, think again. As an experienced interviewer at a top tech company, I’ve seen it all – and I can spot AI-generated code from a mile away.
In the last two months, I’ve conducted 20 SDE 1 interviews, asking a mix of behavioral and coding questions. And let me tell you, it’s surprisingly easy to detect when a candidate is relying on AI to do the heavy lifting.
Here’s the thing: non-cheating candidates don’t write perfect code. They make mistakes, they typo, and they fix those mistakes. It’s a natural part of the learning process. But when someone uses AI, their code is often too perfect, too polished. And when I ask follow-up questions, they often struggle to explain what they’ve written.
The point of these interviews isn’t to test your ability to write flawless code or recite perfect answers. It’s to assess your problem-solving skills, your thought process, and your ability to learn. AI can’t replicate that.
I’ve caught five candidates cheating, and each time, I’ve flagged them as a ‘no hire.’ It’s not just about the technical skills – it’s about trust. If you’re willing to cheat in an interview, what’s to stop you from doing the same on the job?
So, here’s my advice: don’t bother trying to game the system with AI. Instead, focus on building your skills, practicing your craft, and being honest about what you know and don’t know. That’s the only way to build trust with your interviewer – and ultimately, land the job you want.
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*Further reading: [How to Prepare for a Coding Interview](https://www.pramp.com/blog/how-to-prepare-for-a-coding-interview)*