After how many Leetcode did you start passing OAs?

# After How Many Leetcode Problems Did You Start Passing Online Assessments?

In the competitive world of tech recruitment, particularly for software engineering positions, online assessments (OAs) have become a common hurdle. Many candidates find themselves stuck in a cycle of applying, facing OAs, and—in many cases—failing to progress. This raises a burning question: After how many Leetcode problems should you expect to start passing these assessments?

## The Reality of Online Assessments

It’s no secret that Online Assessments can be daunting. Many candidates, regardless of their experience level, have faced the disappointment of failing an assessment despite countless hours spent on platforms like Leetcode. A common sentiment shared among applicants is that there seems to be no alternative but to embrace Leetcode as the reality of the job application process.

One user on a popular forum expressed their struggles, stating, "Have been applying but I always get stopped at assessments." This resonates with many who feel trapped in the cycle of applying and failing. 

## How Many Problems Should You Solve?

The number of problems solved on Leetcode before passing an OA can vary widely among candidates. Here are some insights based on community feedback:

1. **500+ Problems**: One user humorously shared that they had solved over 500 questions yet still passed some assessments and failed others. This highlights a crucial point: sheer quantity does not guarantee success. 

2. **200 Problems**: Another candidate mentioned that 200 problems were their threshold for starting to see success in assessments. This suggests that while practice is essential, it’s also about the quality of practice and understanding the underlying concepts behind each problem.

3. **Experience Matters**: A more nuanced perspective was provided by a community member who noted that the number of problems solved is highly dependent on the candidate's experience level. For instance, a senior developer with 100 solved problems might struggle with harder interviews, while a new grad or intern with only 5 solved problems could potentially succeed in easier assessments. This indicates that the nature of the roles you’re applying for plays a significant role in determining success.

## Quality Over Quantity

While it’s tempting to focus on the number of problems solved, it’s essential to also consider the quality of your practice. Here are some tips to enhance your preparation:

- **Understand the Concepts**: Instead of just solving problems, ensure you understand the underlying algorithms and data structures. This will help you tackle variations of problems that may appear in assessments.

- **Mock Interviews**: Participate in mock interviews to simulate the assessment environment. This will help you gain confidence and improve your problem-solving speed under pressure.

- **Review and Reflect**: After solving a problem, especially if you struggled, take the time to review different solutions and understand various approaches to the same problem.

- **Focus on Your Weaknesses**: Identify the types of problems that consistently challenge you and spend extra time honing those skills.

## Final Thoughts

The journey of preparing for online assessments can be frustrating, but it’s a common experience for many candidates. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to how many Leetcode problems one should solve before passing OAs, as factors like experience level and role expectations play a significant role. 

Ultimately, it’s about finding a balance between quality practice, understanding fundamental concepts, and building confidence through mock assessments. Remember, persistence is key, and every failed assessment is a step closer to success. Keep practicing, stay positive, and you will improve over time!

**Have you experienced similar challenges? Share your journey in the comments below!**
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