IT and software interviews combine technical questions, problem solving and a look at what you have built. Be ready to talk through your own projects in detail.
IT and software interview questions and tips
Walk me through a project you built.
Explain the problem, the tools, your part, challenges and the result. Be ready to show the code or demo.
How do you debug a problem you cannot find?
Reproduce it, isolate the cause, read logs, test small changes and ask for help when stuck.
How do you keep your skills up to date?
Mention courses, practice projects, communities and what you learned recently.
Explain a technical idea to a non-technical person.
Use a simple everyday comparison and avoid jargon.
Which programming languages and tools do you know best?
Name the ones you actually use and give an example of something you built with each. Do not list tools you cannot discuss.
Explain a technical concept to someone who is not technical.
Use a simple everyday comparison, avoid jargon and check that the listener follows. Panels value clear communication.
How do you keep your skills up to date?
Mention courses, documentation, side projects, communities and following one or two trusted sources in your area.
How do you test your own code?
Describe manual testing, simple automated tests and checking edge cases before you share your work.
Tell me about a time you worked on a team project.
Explain your role, how you used version control or shared tools, and how you handled disagreements.
How do you keep user data secure?
Mention strong passwords, limited access, encryption, updates and following company policy. Show that you take privacy seriously.
General questions to expect as well
Tell me about yourself.
About one minute: who you are now, one or two relevant strengths or achievements, and why you want this job. Do not read out your CV.
Why should we hire you?
Match your skills and experience to the job requirements in two or three clear points.
What salary do you expect?
Research typical pay for the role first. Give a reasonable range, and say you are open to discuss based on the full package.
See all ten in our common interview questions.
Use the STAR method for behaviour questions
When a question starts with “Tell me about a time…”, answer in four short parts:
- Situation. Set the scene in one or two sentences.
- Task. Say what you had to achieve.
- Action. Explain what you did yourself. Use “I” more than “we”.
- Result. Say what happened, with a number if you can, and what you learned.
Before the interview
- Read the job advert again and prepare one example for each requirement.
- Bring copies of your CV, certificates and ID. The job application checklist lists what to carry.
- Practise out loud with the interview practice timer.
- Plan your journey, arrive early and switch off your phone.
Frequently asked questions
What are the most common it and software interview questions?
Typical questions include: “Walk me through a project you built.” “How do you debug a problem you cannot find?” “How do you keep your skills up to date?” Each question above comes with a tip.
How do I prepare for a it and software interview?
Read the job advert, prepare an example for each requirement, practise your answers out loud and research the employer. IT and software interviews combine technical questions, problem solving and a look at what you have built. Be ready to talk through your own projects in detail.
More interview questions
Free tools you may need
Interview Practice
Common interview questions by role, with answer tips and a countdown timer to practise out loud.
Aptitude Test Practice
Timed numerical, number series, verbal and logical questions like graduate recruitment tests, with scoring and review.
CV Builder
Build a clean CV in minutes. Nigerian, international and simple templates. Download as PDF or Word.
Typing Speed Test
Test your words per minute and accuracy. Useful for clerical, bank and government job tests.