System Design courses/book for interview prep
System Design Courses/Books for Interview Prep
Hi All,
As an early-stage Engineering Manager (EM) who transitioned from a software developer to a management role, I understand the challenges of preparing for system design interviews, especially while considering a job switch. With about a year of experience under my belt, I’m reaching out to gather resources that can help me ace the interview process for system design and EM roles.
Here are some recommendations gathered from the community that might help you in your preparation:
Recommended Resources for System Design
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Books by Bytebytego.com
- The system design interview books authored by the team at Bytebytego are highly recommended. Their comprehensive approach provides a good foundation for understanding the core principles of system design. Plus, their email newsletter serves as a valuable resource for ongoing learning.
- Visit Bytebytego
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“System Design Interview” by Alex Xu
- This book is straightforward and effectively covers major concepts encountered in system design interviews. It’s a must-read for anyone preparing for these types of discussions.
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“Designing Data-Intensive Applications” by Martin Kleppmann
- While this book delves deeper into the intricacies of data systems, it’s excellent for those looking for a thorough understanding of data architecture, making it a great supplement to your preparation.
Preparing for EM Interviews
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“The Manager’s Path” by Camille Fournier
- This book is a fantastic resource for understanding the evolution from developer to management. It provides insights that are crucial for aspiring and current EMs navigating their careers.
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Mock Interviews with Experienced EMs
- Engaging in mock interviews with professionals who have experience as EMs at your target companies can provide tailored feedback. Platforms like Prepfully offer 1:1 coaching with current EMs from major tech companies, which can be incredibly beneficial for getting targeted feedback on system design and leadership questions.
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Crafting Your Stories
- Given your year of EM experience, it’s crucial to prepare solid examples of how you’ve handled team conflicts, project planning, and execution challenges. Storytelling is a vital component in EM interviews, and having these narratives ready can significantly enhance your chances of success.
Additional Tips
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Hello Interview for Paid Mocks
- Consider utilizing platforms like Hello Interview for paid mock interviews. System design has evolved into a more gamified realm, similar to Leetcode, where the focus has shifted to a dedicated project presentation round alongside behavioral interviews. Preparing for both aspects is critical.
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Professional Mentorship
- As generic resources may not suffice anymore, hiring a professional mentor for specific guidance and mock interviews can make your preparation more efficient. Leaderhub.io has received positive feedback for its tailored coaching services.
Community Insights
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It’s worth noting that many find Alex Xu’s resources not only helpful for interview prep but also beneficial for their day-to-day work. His insights can be invaluable to anyone in the tech field.
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Lastly, if you’re in Bangalore and looking to offload your copy of “Cracking the Coding Interview,” there’s a community member interested in buying second-hand copies, highlighting the collaborative spirit among those preparing for technical interviews.
In conclusion, preparing for system design interviews and EM roles requires a strategic approach that encompasses both theoretical knowledge and practical experience. Leveraging the right resources, engaging with mentors, and preparing your personal narratives will set you up for success. Happy prepping, and good luck with your job search!