Codility Test for Developers: How to Excel in Your Online Assessment

What is a Codility test?

Codility serves as an online coding platform used by various tech companies, including Microsoft, Check Point, Amdocs, and others, for conducting Online Assessments. This automated coding test is subsequently reviewed by a professional. Typically, candidates are presented with three questions to be solved within 60-90 minutes.

The Online Assessment, also known as the Online Technical Screen (OTS), constitutes one of the initial stages in the hiring process, often involving a Codility interview, a phone interview, or a combination of both.

What is the passing score for the Codility test?  

Your code undergoes automatic grading based on its efficiency with all possible inputs:

• 100%: Automatic Pass
• 60% ior below: Automatic Reject
• 60%-100%: Code needs to be reviewed.

During the review process, your code is evaluated for its optimality and your comprehension of the solution.

What questions will you encounter on the Codility test?

Technical interview questions generally assess fundamental algorithm and data structure knowledge. The Codility test may include:

• Debugging Questions
• Coding questions requiring the implementation of data structures and algorithms (e.g., Strings, Binary Trees)
• Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ), for example: "How many comparisons do you need to find the minimum value in a 5-element array?" Answer: (n-1)(4)

You may also be queried on computer subjects like:

• Operating systems
• Database Management Systems (DBMS)
• Computer Networks

Common question topics on the Codility Test include Arrays/Strings (most frequent), Linked lists, Binary trees, Search/Sort, Dynamic programming, and Bit manipulation. While covering all these topics may seem extensive, practicing the most common questions will significantly save you time and effort.

What programming languages will you use on Codility?

You have the option to choose your preferred programming language before commencing the test. Similarly, using the Prep Course, you can start practicing the language you are most comfortable coding in (C++, Java, Python, or JavaScript).

Is the Codility test challenging?

The difficulty level of the Codility test varies based on the company you are interviewing for, your level of experience, and the specific role you are applying for.

The main challenges in the Codility Test include working under time pressure and the inability to directly communicate your thought process to the interviewer.

Due to these challenges, many individuals end up with blank answers, leading to failure in the code review.

How to effectively prepare and pass the Codility test? 

Master time Management to avoid unfinished questions

Navigating through all coding questions within stringent time constraints can be challenging and, at times, impractical to devise optimal solutions for every query. Learning strategies can ensure there aren’t any questions left unanswered due to time limitations.

Optimize your coding speed

Recognize and work on improving your coding speed. Understanding your own pace allows you to efficiently manage your time during the actual Codility test. Engage in timed Online Assessment (OA) simulations to familiarize yourself with coding under time pressure and reduce stress in the real test environment.

Thoroughly Grasp Data Structures and Algorithms

Gain a comprehensive understanding of data structures and algorithms. Practice extensively on commonly asked question topics such as Arrays, Linked Lists, Binary Trees, Search/Sort, and more. This preparation ensures you are ready to tackle any type of question that may arise in the test.

Approach New Problems More Efficiently

Enhance your problem-solving skills by practicing numerous questions with complete solutions. This will help you:

• Pose essential clarification questions when faced with a new problem.
• Explore different and alternative solutions for the same problem.
• Approach new problems with greater ease and confidence.

Explore the Benefits of Our Comprehensive Prep Course

Our dedicated preparation pack is designed to be your guide to success. By enrolling in our prep course, you gain access  to an extensive set of resources covering all question types encountered on the Codility test.

Here's what the preparation pack includes:

• 312 Data Structure and Algorithms Questions with Full Solutions: A thorough exploration of essential topics, encompassing Arrays, Linked Lists, Binary Trees, Search/Sort, Dynamic programming, and Bit manipulation.
• Four Programming Languages: Practices of your choice, whether it’s C++, Java, Python, or JavaScript, to enhance your coding proficiency.
• Possible Hints for Each Question: Valuable hints to guide you through the problem-solving process.
• Video Explanations on Key Topics: Access to video explanations that delve into crucial concepts and questions.
• Reading Material and MCQ-Based Quizzes: Strengthen your understanding of core computer subjects with comprehensive reading materials and multiple-choice quizzes on operating systems, DBMS, and networking.
• Time Recorder for Each Question: Effectively manage your time with a dedicated time recorder for every question, allowing you to track your solving time.
• Ten Coding Assessments: 10 coding assessments that simulate the Codility test, providing valuable practice in a contest-like format.
• Four Simulations of On-Site Virtual Rounds (Mock Tests): Realistic on-site virtual rounds through four mock tests based on actual interview experiences.

All these resources are conveniently accessible on our online coding platform, providing you a one-stop solution for Codility test preparation.

Essential tips for a successful online assessment

Articulate your thought process

 It is crucial to convey your reasoning and provide comments during the Online Assessment (OA). Here are some tips to improve your communication:

• Verbally express your thought process while solving each coding problem.
• Use clear and formal coding concept names in your comments.
• Create explanations using logical sequences. 

Pose clarification questions

When tackling a problem, consider initiating the process by asking relevant (but not excessive) clarification questions. If questioning isn't possible, no worries. Document your queries in comments, accompanied by the necessary adjustments for each case’s scenario.

Explain code efficiency

Demonstrate your comprehensive understanding of the solution by commenting on your code's time and space complexity, as well as its advantages and limitations.

Get familiarized with Codility

Take the Codility demo test to become familiar with the coding platform and alleviate stress during the actual Codility test. Keep in mind that Codility questions may vary from one company to another.

Common FAQs about the Codility test

Which companies incorporate the Codility test in their hiring process?

The Codility test is a component of the hiring process for roles like SDE1 in companies such as Microsoft, Check Point, Matrix, Amdocs, HP Indigo, and Facebook.

How do I access the Codility test?

1-2 days before the scheduled interview, a link to the Codility test will be provided. You can open the link to read the instructions; it’s important to mention that it’s not mandatory to initiate the test at this stage.

Do I need to turn on my camera during the Codility test?