Barclays

Profile: Technology Developer
Selection Process: Technical Aptitude Test, HR Interview, Technical Interview

Pattern of the Test

The test comprised of 12 technical MCQS of OOPS, DBMS, and core subjects of CS, 1 Coding Question , and 1 SQL Query.
Duration : 90 minutes

Examples of Questions Asked:

SQL Queries:

  • Retrieve October Entries: “Write a query to return the names of students whose month of birth is October.”
  • Customer Data: “Write a query to find information from the month of October, in ascending order of customer ID.”

Data Structures and Algorithms (DSA):

  • String Manipulation: DSA questions related to handling strings.
  • Depth-First Search (DFS): Question on implementing DFS with a focus on string-based applications.
  • Algorithms: Questions on specific algorithms, such as the KMP (Knuth-Morris-Pratt) algorithm.

Output Prediction and Coding (Java, C++, Python):

  • Output-Based Questions: Predict the output of given code snippets in Java, C++, and Python.
  • Error Identification: Identifying errors or outcomes in provided code segments.

Technical Interview

During the Technical Interview, which lasted between 25 to 50 minutes, candidates faced questions on various topics such as:

Data Structures and Algorithms (DSA): Binary Trees and Binary Search Trees (BST)., Questions on linked lists, arrays, sorting algorithms (e.g., merge sort, insertion sort, bubble sort), Pattern coding and string manipulation, Designing a hashmap and understanding different tree types (e.g., B+ trees vs. red-black trees).

QL and Database Management Systems (DBMS): Focused on SQL queries related to joins (e.g., right joins), indexing, and database normalization, Questions on the implementation of indexing and the advantages of specific trees in databases (e.g., why use B+ trees instead of red-black trees).

Object-Oriented Programming (OOP): Four pillars of OOP (Encapsulation, Abstraction, Inheritance, Polymorphism), Differences between inheritance and composition, Run-time vs. compile-time polymorphism.

Project and Resume-Based Questions: Discussion on projects mentioned in the candidate’s resume, including capstone or personal projects, Questions related to the technical stack used in these projects (e.g., React.js, GitHub commands).

General Programming and Miscellaneous Topics: Some interviews included questions on Java programming, including exception handling, Basic understanding of other technical skills like React.js and GitHub.

Situational and Conceptual Questions: Questions designed to assess problem-solving and conceptual understanding, What is the difference between HTTP and HTTPS?, What is the best time complexity achievable in sorting algorithms?

 

Core topics in Operating Systems (OS), Computer Networks (CN), and Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC).

Topics covered included virtual memory, paging, and CAP theorem.

HR Interview

The HR Interview, lasting between 15 to 50 minutes, focused on behavioral aspects and background information. Questions ranged from family background to personal interests and daily life.

Candidates were asked about their motivations for joining Barclays, with specific inquiries regarding their understanding of the company’s core values and how these values align with their personal beliefs. They discussed their projects, challenges faced, and the decision-making processes involved, particularly in situations where they encountered opposition or conflict.

The interview also included situational questions related to teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving, such as handling criticism, managing interpersonal conflicts, and approaches to technical challenges.

Additionally, candidates were encouraged to share their extracurricular activities, achievements, and personal development experiences. The interview concluded with basic introductory questions about the candidate’s family and other relevant details, alongside discussions on their future goals and where they see themselves in the coming years.