A tech interview can feel intimidating, especially as a junior developer. You’ll be tested on knowledge, problem-solving, and teamwork—all while figuring out if the company and team are the right fit for you. This guide takes you step by step through preparation, what to expect, the questions you might face, what you can ask, and how to handle situations where you don’t know the answer. I’m focusing mainly on the technical interview, because that’s usually the stage candidates dread most.
Understanding the process
You can’t prepare well until you know what you’re preparing for. Applying for a role involves more than just a technical interview, though that’s often the part you worry about most. There are several stages in the process where both you and other candidates need to be ready. Ultimately, the company has to make a decision, and every step counts.
Here are the most common stages and what to expect:
- Application & Screening
It usually starts with submitting your CV, portfolio, or GitHub profile. Sometimes there’s a short phone or video call to discuss your background and check if you fit the role. This is usually informal and meant to make a first impression. - Technical Screening
Here your basic knowledge and skills are tested. This could be an online coding challenge, a small exercise, or a theoretical knowledge test. The goal isn’t just to get the “right” answers—it’s also to show how you approach problems. - First Interview
This conversation goes deeper into your experience, projects, and technical knowledge. You might be asked about algorithms, data structures, or relevant frameworks. Sometimes there’s a small live coding task or theoretical exercise. - Team or Culture Interview
Many companies schedule a meeting with part of the team. The focus here is on communication, collaboration, and cultural fit. This is also your chance to ask questions about the team, workflow, and projects. - Final Interview / Offer
Sometimes there’s a last meeting with a manager or senior developer. They review your technical skills, mindset, motivation, and teamwork. If all goes well, a job offer follows.
Understanding the process helps you feel more confident, make better use of each stage, and know when to ask questions.
5 questions you can expect
Every interview is different, but some questions appear in almost every tech interview. Practice these to boost your confidence:
- Can you describe a project you’re proud of?
The interviewer wants insight into your experience and approach. It’s your chance to show problem-solving, decision-making, and results. Be enthusiastic in your answer. - Can you explain a specific algorithm or data structure?
This tests your technical knowledge and understanding. It’s not just about the answer, but how you explain it. If you don’t know everything, be honest and explain what parts you do understand. - How would you solve this problem in code?
Many interviews include a small live coding or theoretical task. Explain your thought process out loud. Interviewers want to see how you approach problems, not just whether you know the syntax. Mention extra steps you’d normally take, like testing or documenting, even if time is limited. - How do you handle mistakes or things you don’t know?
This tests your mindset. Recruiters want to see that you learn from mistakes, think logically, and don’t get stuck. Ask for help when needed and show that you can be vulnerable—learning happens through questions. - How do you collaborate in a team or approach a shared project?
Collaboration is key. Explain how you communicate, share, and contribute. Examples can come from previous jobs, study projects, or even team activities. The ability to work well with others is a skill in itself.
What to do when you don't know the answer
It happens to everyone. Interviewers will ask questions you don’t immediately know the answer to. They’re testing how you handle uncertainty. Here’s how to approach it:
Stay calm and honest
It’s better to admit you don’t know than to guess and confuse the interviewer. Say something like: “I’m not entirely sure, but I can explain how I would approach this.” Honesty shows self-awareness and professionalism.
Think out loud
Share your thought process. Interviewers want to see how you tackle problems, even if the solution isn’t perfect.
Ask clarifying questions
For example: “Do you mean X or Y?” or “Would it be okay if I suggest an alternative approach?” This shows initiative and active thinking.
Show willingness to learn
Explain how you would find the answer or what your next steps would be. Example: “I would check the documentation or ask a colleague how they would handle this.” This demonstrates independence and growth mindset.
5 questions you can ask
A tech interview isn’t just for the company to evaluate you, it’s also your chance to see if the company is right for you. Ask questions that show curiosity and a desire to contribute:
- What does a typical day look like in this team?
Shows interest in daily workflow and team dynamics. - What challenges do you see for this role in the coming months?
Demonstrates forward-thinking and a desire to make an impact. - How do you collaborate on larger features or projects?
Gives insight into team processes and decision-making. - How do you support new developers learning the codebase?
Highlights your eagerness to learn and quickly become productive. - What opportunities are there for developing new skills?
Shows ambition and a commitment to growth.
Questions you shouldn't ask (yet)
Some questions can backfire if asked too early:
Avoid easy-to-answer questions
Don’t ask things you could have found in your pre-interview research. It makes you look unprepared.
Avoid questions about easy or comfortable work
As a junior, show eagerness to learn. It’s okay to ask once or twice about task difficulty, but avoid focusing on “easy work.”
Avoid salary or benefits questions too early
These are important, but wait until you and the company have had time to connect. Asking too soon can signal that you’re motivated mainly by perks.
Summary
A tech interview can be intimidating, but it’s also an opportunity to learn, show your skills, and find out if the company is the right fit for you. Prepare by understanding the process, practicing common questions, and thinking about what you want to ask. Focus on problem-solving, collaboration, and honesty when you don’t know an answer. Ask smart questions, avoid premature topics like salary, and always show curiosity and a willingness to grow. With the right mindset and preparation, you can approach your tech interview confidently—and turn it into a chance to grow as a developer.