Has anyone taken Microsoft new grad OA?
Has Anyone Taken Microsoft New Grad OA?
As the tech industry continues to evolve, companies like Microsoft are constantly on the lookout for fresh talent to bring innovative ideas and solutions to the table. For many new graduates, the Online Assessment (OA) is a crucial step in the interview process. Recently, there has been buzz around the new grad OA at Microsoft, with many candidates sharing their experiences online. In this post, we’ll explore some insights from those who have taken the assessment, along with tips on how to prepare for it.
The Challenge of Microsoft’s New Grad OA
One of the key takeaways from the discussions surrounding the Microsoft new grad OA is the difficulty level. Many candidates have reported that the assessment was more challenging than they initially anticipated.
For instance, one candidate shared their experience of encountering a dynamic programming (DP) problem followed by a greedy algorithm problem. They mentioned, “I don’t know if I was unlucky, but it was insanely harder than I expected.” They faced regular test cases but struggled with edge cases, which can often make or break a solution. This sentiment reflects a common theme among candidates: the importance of not only solving the problem but also preparing for those tricky edge cases that often catch many off guard.
Success Doesn’t Always Mean Acceptance
Interestingly, another candidate reported doing well on both questions presented during their assessment. Despite feeling confident about their performance, they were met with disappointment when they received a rejection. They mentioned that they tackled two medium-difficulty problems, one of which was related to dynamic programming. This highlights an important aspect of the hiring process—success in an assessment doesn’t always guarantee an offer.
The competitive nature of tech roles means that even strong candidates can be passed over. It’s crucial for applicants to not only focus on performing well in assessments but also to understand that rejection doesn’t reflect their capabilities or potential.
Preparing for the Microsoft OA
Given these experiences, here are some tips for future candidates preparing for the Microsoft new grad OA:
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Master the Basics: Ensure you have a solid understanding of fundamental algorithms and data structures. Focus on dynamic programming, greedy algorithms, and other common topics.
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Practice Edge Cases: When practicing problems, go beyond the standard test cases. Think of potential edge cases and how your solution might handle them. This will help you build a more robust solution.
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Time Management: During the OA, manage your time wisely. If you get stuck on a problem, it might be better to move on and return to it later.
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Mock Interviews: Participate in mock interviews to simulate the assessment environment. This can help you get comfortable with the pressure of timed assessments.
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Review Feedback: If you get the chance, seek feedback on your performance, especially if you face rejection. Understanding where you can improve is key to future success.
Conclusion
The Microsoft new grad OA can be a daunting experience, as reflected in the shared experiences of candidates who have recently taken it. While it’s important to prepare thoroughly and perform well, remember that the process can be unpredictable. The stories of rejection despite strong performances serve as a reminder that every candidate’s journey is unique.
For those preparing for the OA, take heart in the knowledge that many others have walked the same path and emerged stronger. Embrace the learning experience, and continue to hone your skills—your next opportunity may be just around the corner!