Module quiz: Introduction to data structures :Coding Interview Preparation (Meta iOS Developer Professional Certificate) Answers 2026
Question 1
What should be done when presented with a technical problem where the solution is not immediately obvious?
✅ Ask questions.
❌ Move the conversation along and try not to draw attention.
❌ Ask the interviewer how they would solve the problem.
Explanation:
Asking clarifying questions demonstrates logical thinking, curiosity, and good communication skills.
Question 2
During a technical interview, is it better to rely on the work of others, or code everything yourself?
❌ Use code written by others.
✅ Use the data structures, but don’t use any other external implementation.
❌ Write as much code as you can to show off your skills.
Explanation:
Interviewers want to see your problem-solving ability, not copied solutions.
Question 3
Given an array of sock colors:[3,3,2,1,1,3,5,1,4,2]
How many pairs exist?
❌ 4
❌ 2
✅ 3
Explanation:
Pairs formed:
-
Color 3 → 1 pair
-
Color 1 → 1 pair
-
Color 2 → 1 pair
Total = 3 pairs
Question 4
It is best to remain silent when writing code during a technical interview.
❌ True
✅ False
Explanation:
Thinking aloud helps interviewers understand your approach and decision-making.
Question 5
Should I ask questions in an interview?
❌ Run down the clock
❌ Only when it helps the interviewer
✅ Yes. Ask questions for clarity or during an appropriate time.
Explanation:
Asking relevant questions shows engagement and professionalism.
Question 6
What is the STAR method?
✅ A structured approach to answering questions.
❌ A stellar answer to a good question.
❌ A coding practice with 4 key components.
Explanation:
STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, Result — commonly used in behavioral interviews.
Question 7
What is meant by transfer rate in relation to a CPU?
✅ The rate at which memory is transferred into cache.
❌ The rate at which instructions are processed.
❌ The rate at which terminal input is converted.
Explanation:
Transfer rate refers to data movement speed, not execution speed.
Question 8
When engaged in a coding interview, what tests should you aim to include?
❌ Integration tests
❌ Functional tests
✅ Unit tests
Explanation:
Unit tests are quick, focused, and show correctness of logic.
Question 9
Which memory location is closest to the CPU?
❌ Main memory
❌ Secondary memory
✅ Cache
Explanation:
Cache memory is the fastest and closest to the CPU.
Question 10
When designing a solution it is best to:
❌ Tackle every problem as it arises.
✅ Plan an outline, identify obstacles, explore solutions, and review continuously.
❌ Do a quick sketch then implement everything immediately.
Explanation:
Structured planning leads to efficient and maintainable solutions.
🧾 Summary Table
| Question | Correct Answer | Key Concept |
|---|---|---|
| Q1 | Ask questions | Problem-solving |
| Q2 | Use structures only | Interview best practice |
| Q3 | 3 | Logical reasoning |
| Q4 | False | Communication |
| Q5 | Ask for clarity | Interview etiquette |
| Q6 | Structured approach | STAR method |
| Q7 | Memory transfer rate | CPU fundamentals |
| Q8 | Unit tests | Testing strategy |
| Q9 | Cache | Memory hierarchy |
| Q10 | Plan & review | Solution design |