Cracking Amazon's Software Engineer Interview: Mastering Greedy Algorithms for Optimal Samples and Maximum Median

amazon | Software Engineer | Interview Experience

Interview Date: Not specified
Result: Not specified
Difficulty: Not specified

Interview Process

The interview consisted of two main questions focused on algorithmic problem-solving. The format was likely a coding interview, where the candidate was asked to solve problems in real-time.

Technical Questions

  1. Determine Optimal Samples (Greedy Algorithm)
    Task: Replace all “?” to minimize the total overhead.

  2. Get Maximum Median (Math, Greedy Algorithm)
    Initial approach involved binary search, which passed 8 out of 15 test cases. Upon re-reading the question, it was recognized as a greedy problem combined with mathematical conclusions, rather than a binary search or prefix sum problem.

Tips & Insights

When faced with operations that involve constraints like “one increase and one decrease” with a target of median, maximum, or minimum, prioritize whether all operations can be centralized at a key position and consider the existence of “resource transfer/cost.”

Avoid relying solely on LeetCode templates for problem-solving.