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115+ Amazon Interview Questions & Answers for Freshers & Experienced (2025)

115+ Amazon Interview Questions & Answers for Freshers & Experienced (2025)

10 Dec 2024
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49 min read

Amazon Interview Questions

Getting ready for an Amazon Interview Questions? This guide provides you with necessary Amazon interview questions to help you feel prepared and confident. We've included Amazon interview questions for freshers with answers, as well as insights on how to respond to technical and culture-fit questions, as well as expert advice on how to reply to Amazon interview questions with impactful replies. Prepare for success and perform well during your interview!

This Interview Tutorial will help you to complete information on theAmazon Interview Process, Common HR Interview Questions, Amazon Interview Questions for Freshers, Amazon Behavioral Interview Questions, Amazon Developer Interview Questions, Amazon Interview SQL Questions, Amazon System Design Interview Questions, and a lot more.

What should you expect in Amazon Interviews?

  • Behavioral questions: Share examples of challenges you've faced or how you've taken ownership of a project. Focus on leadership qualities.
  • Technical questions: If you're applying for a technical role, expect coding problems involving algorithms, data structures, and system design. You'll likely solve these on a coding platform or whiteboard.
  • Problem-solving skills: Be prepared to show how you break down complex problems and find efficient solutions. You may face real-world scenarios.
  • Amazon's Management Principles: Expect questions about Amazon's ideals, such as customer focus, ownership, and streamlining procedures.
  • Coding and algorithm: Practice problem-solving with arrays, linked lists, trees, sorting, searching, and dynamic programming.
  • Communication: Be clear about your thought process and approach to problem resolution.
  • Cultural fit: Amazon promotes a fast-paced work atmosphere, so be prepared to talk about how you handle stress and uncertainty.
  • Role-specific questions: Questions will be matched to your specific position (software engineer, product manager, or data scientist).

Understanding the Amazon Interview Process

Let us understand the Azazon Interview Process in detail:

StageDescription
Eligibility Criteria
  • A Bachelor's or Master's degree in relevant fields (e.g., Computer Science, Engineering).
  • Strong academic record, often with a good GPA (varies by role and location).
  • Relevant skills or experience, such as internships for freshers or prior work experience for senior roles.
Online Application
  • Submit your resume and application through Amazon's career portal.
  • Ensure the resume highlights key skills like coding, problem-solving, and relevant projects.
Recruitment Process
  • Initial screening via phone or online assessment for coding skills.
  • If successful, further rounds will be scheduled, including technical and behavioral interviews.
Interview Rounds
  • Phone Screen: A short discussion to evaluate basic technical and behavioral knowledge.
  • Technical Interviews: Usually 2-3 rounds involving coding, algorithms, and problem-solving.
  • HR Interview: To assess cultural fit, motivation, and role-specific interests.
Technical Interview Questions (Freshers)
Technical Interview Questions (Experienced)
  • Advanced topics in data structures, algorithms, and system design.
  • Questions might cover complex problem-solving scenarios, optimization, and real-world applications.
  • Expect discussions on past projects, architecture decisions, and coding challenges you’ve faced.
HR Interview Question
  • Tell me about yourself.
  • Why do you want to work at Amazon?
  • What is your biggest strength/weakness?
  • Tell me about a time when you faced a challenge at work.
  • Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Common HR Interview Questions

Q 1. Tell me about yourself.

You have a strong background in software development, with experience in coding and problem-solving, and you are excited about this role at Amazon because you value innovation and the opportunity to work on impactful projects.

Example: "I am a Computer Science graduate with a strong passion for coding and problem-solving. During my internship at XYZ Company, I worked on developing a web app, which sparked my interest in full-stack development. I am excited about the opportunity at Amazon because of its innovative culture and global impact."

Q 2. Why do you want to work at Amazon?

Show that you have researched Amazon and align its values with your career goals.

Example: "I admire Amazon’s commitment to customer obsession and its ability to innovate constantly. I believe my passion for problem-solving and working in fast-paced environments aligns well with Amazon’s culture."

Q 3. What would you say is your biggest strength?

Choose a strength that is relevant to the job you're applying for and provide an example to back it up.

Example: "My biggest strength is my problem-solving ability. For example, in my last project, I solved a complex issue with a database by optimizing its queries, which resulted in a 30% performance improvement."

Q 4. What would you say is your biggest weakness?

While answering this question, be honest, but focus on a weakness you are actively working to improve.

Example: "I tend to be a perfectionist, which can slow me down sometimes. However, I have been working on managing my time better and focusing on delivering high-quality work within deadlines."

Q 5. Can you tell me about a time when you faced a challenge at work?

Focus on a specific challenge, how you handled it, and the outcome.

Example: "During my internship, I was tasked with debugging a major issue in the system. I collaborated with the team to identify the root cause, fixed the bug, and improved system stability by 25%."

Q 6. Why did you leave your last job/internship?

Be positive, focusing on the opportunity for growth and learning.

Example: "I left my last internship because I felt I had learned a lot, and I was ready to take on new challenges. I am looking for a role where I can further develop my skills and contribute to exciting projects."

Q 7. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Talk about growth and leadership within the company.

Example: "In 5 years, I see myself growing as a software engineer, taking on more responsibility, and contributing to high-impact projects. I hope to be part of a team that drives innovation at Amazon."

Q 8. Can you describe a time when you showed leadership?

Focus on a situation where you led a project or team, even in a small way.

Example: "During a group project at university, I took the lead in organizing tasks and ensuring the project was completed on time. My leadership helped the team stay focused and finish ahead of schedule."

Q 9. How do you handle pressure and stress?

Show that you can stay organized, maintain a positive attitude, and prioritize tasks effectively.

Example: "I stay calm under pressure by breaking down tasks into smaller parts and focusing on one thing at a time. In my last internship, I was able to meet deadlines during a high-pressure project by managing my time efficiently."

Q 10. How do you prioritize tasks?

Discuss how you assess tasks based on urgency and importance using time management strategies.

Example: "I prioritize tasks based on their deadlines and impact. I use tools like to-do lists and project management software to stay organized and ensure everything gets done on time."

Amazon Interview Questions for Freshers

Q 11. Why do you want to work at Amazon?

This question helps Amazon understand why you're interested in their company. Talk about what excites you about Amazon's work culture, innovation, or values.

Example: "I admire Amazon's customer-obsessed culture and its ability to constantly innovate. The chance to contribute to a company that always strives for excellence and disrupts industries excites me, and I want to be part of that change."

Q 12. Can you describe a challenging situation and how you handled it?

They want to see your problem-solving skills. Explain a real-life challenge, how you approached it, and the result.

Example: "During my final project, I faced a challenge when my team’s server went down just before our presentation. I quickly coordinated with my team to troubleshoot, and we worked together to get the server back up in time for the demo, preventing any delays."

Q 13. How do you prioritize your tasks when you have multiple deadlines?

Amazon values time management. Share how you decide which tasks are most important and how you manage your time effectively.

Example: "When I have multiple deadlines, I prioritize tasks by urgency and importance. For example, during my internship, I had to submit a report and also work on a product feature. I focused on completing the report first since it had a tighter deadline, then dedicated time to the product feature."

Q 14. Tell us about a time you worked in a team. What role did you play?

This question tests your teamwork skills. Describe a situation where you worked with others and what you contributed to the team.

Example: "In a group project at college, we were tasked with building a web application. I took on the role of managing the database and backend while coordinating with the front-end developers to ensure everything integrated smoothly."

Q 15. How would you handle a situation where you don’t know the answer to a problem?

They want to know how you approach unknown situations. Explain how you'd research, ask for help, or find a solution on your own.

Example: "If I don't know the answer to a problem, I first try to break it down into smaller parts. If I’m still stuck, I’ll look for solutions online, check documentation, or ask a colleague for help. For instance, during a coding challenge, I referred to StackOverflow and learned a new solution."

Q 16. What do you know about Amazon’s leadership principles?

Amazon looks for candidates who align with their principles. Briefly mention key principles like customer obsession, ownership, or inventing and simplifying.

Example: "I know that Amazon values principles like customer obsession and ownership. For instance, the principle of 'Customer Obsession' means understanding customers' needs and working to exceed their expectations. I always try to understand customer feedback to improve my work."

Q 17. Can you explain a technical concept to someone who doesn’t understand it?

This tests your communication skills. Pick a technical concept you know well and explain it simply.

Example: "If I had to explain 'Cloud Computing' to someone, I would say, 'It’s like using services such as Google Drive or Dropbox. Instead of storing files on your computer, you store them on the internet, where they’re easily accessible from anywhere.'

Q 18. What are your strengths and weaknesses?

Be honest, but focus on strengths that are relevant to the role. For weaknesses, mention something you're actively working on improving.

Example: "One of my strengths is my ability to learn quickly and apply new technologies. However, I’ve noticed that sometimes I focus too much on small details, and I am working on improving my time management to balance precision with efficiency."

Q 19. How do you stay organized when working on multiple projects?

Explain your method for staying organized, whether it’s using tools, making lists, or breaking down tasks into smaller parts.

Example: "I use tools like Trello and Google Calendar to stay organized. For example, when managing multiple assignments, I break each project into smaller tasks and set deadlines for each task to ensure I stay on track."

Q 20. Have you ever disagreed with a team member? How did you resolve it?

This question tests conflict resolution. Share an example where you disagreed but handled it professionally to reach a solution.

Example: "In one project, a team member and I disagreed on the approach to a feature. I listened to their point of view, explained mine, and we found a compromise by incorporating parts of both ideas, which improved the final product."

Amazon Behavioral Interview Questions

Here, we have provided you with some of the most important questions Amazon Behavioral Interview Questions.

Q 21. Tell me about a time when you took a risk at work. What was the outcome?

Q 22. Tell me about a time when you disagreed with a supervisor or manager. How did you handle it?

Q 23. Give me an example of a time you showed initiative.

Q 24. Tell me about a time you failed. How did you handle it?

Q 25. Describe a time when you had to manage conflicting priorities. How did you handle it?

Q 26. Tell me about a time when you worked on a team project. What was your role, and how did you contribute?

Q 27. Can you describe a situation where you had to manage multiple tasks under tight deadlines?

Q 28. Tell me about a time when you had to overcome a difficult challenge at work.

Q 29. Describe a situation where you had to make a tough decision. What was the outcome?

Q 30. Tell me about a time when you had to deal with an unhappy customer. How did you resolve the situation?

Q 31. Can you give an example of a time when you had to adapt to a new process or technology?

Q 32. Describe a time when you worked under pressure. How did you manage it?

Q 33. Tell me about a time when you contributed to a project that was outside of your comfort zone.

Q 34. Can you describe a situation where you had to persuade others to adopt your point of view?

Q 35. Tell me about a time you showed leadership without having formal authority.

Q 36. Tell me about a time when you had to quickly learn something new. How did you approach it?

Q 37. Describe a situation where you had to make a decision without all the necessary information. How did you handle it?

Q 38. Tell me about a time when you had to work with someone who was difficult. How did you manage the situation?

Q 39. Tell me about a time when you helped someone improve their performance or skills.

Q 40. Can you describe a time when you had to juggle multiple projects? How did you manage them?

By practicing these questions, you can easily make a better path for Amazon's journey.

Amazon Software Developer Interview Questions

Q 41. What is the difference between a stack and a queue?

The major difference between Stack in Data Structure and Queue in Data Structure:

FeatureStack in Data StructureQueue in Data Structure
Data Structure TypeLIFO (Last In, First Out)FIFO (First In, First Out)
OperationsPush (add) and Pop (remove) at the top onlyEnqueue (add) at the rear and Dequeue (remove) from the front
Example Use CasesUndo functionality, call stack in programmingTask scheduling, customer service lines

Q 42. What is a hash table, and how does it work?

Hash Table in Data Structures stores key-value pairs, making it easy to find, add, or remove data quickly. Here's how it works in simple terms:

  • Each item has a unique "key" (like a label) and a "value" (the data you want to store).
  • A hash function takes the key and converts it into a specific index in an array where the value will be stored.
  • When you need to find the data, the hash function uses the key again to quickly locate the correct spot.
  • If two keys produce the same index (a "collision"), the hash table has a way to handle this, like using a linked list or reassigning it to a different spot.

Q 43. What is the time complexity of binary search?

Binary search in Data Structure operates in O(log n) time complexity, where n is the number of elements in a sorted array.

Q 44. How do you reverse a linked list?

To reverse a linked list in Data Structure, change the next pointers of the nodes so they point to the previous node.

Sample Code

def reverse_linked_list(head):
    prev = None
    current = head
    while current:
        next_node = current.next
        current.next = prev
        prev = current
        current = next_node
    return prev
In this code, the function traverses the linked list and reverses the direction of the pointers to create a reversed list.

Q 45. What is the difference between a deep copy and a shallow copy?

A shallow copy copies references to the objects, while a deep copy copies the objects themselves recursively.

Sample Code

import copy
original = [1, [2, 3]]
shallow_copy = copy.copy(original)
deep_copy = copy.deepcopy(original)
In this case, the shallow copy will copy the outer list but reference the inner list, while the deep copy will copy both the outer and inner lists.

Q 46. Explain the concept of polymorphism in object-oriented programming.

Polymorphismisobject-oriented programming concepts thatallow different classes to provide a common interface while implementing their own version of methods.

Sample Code

class Shape:
    def draw(self):
        pass

class Circle(Shape):
    def draw(self):
        print("Drawing a circle")

class Rectangle(Shape):
    def draw(self):
        print("Drawing a rectangle")
In this example, polymorphism allows different shapes to implement their own version of the drawing method.

Q 47. What is a binary tree, and how does it differ from a binary search tree?

A binary tree in the data structurewhere each node has at most two children, while a Binary Search Tree in Data Structuresis a binary tree where the left child is smaller and the right child is larger than the parent node.

  • A binary tree is a tree structure where each node can have up to two child nodes (left and right), but there are no specific rules about the order of the nodes.
  • A binary search tree (BST) is a specific type of binary tree with an added rule: for each node, the left child node's value must be smaller, and the right child node's value must be larger. This ordering allows faster searching, inserting, and deleting of values.
  • In a binary tree, node values can be in any order, while in a BST, nodes are organized to support efficient data lookup.

Q 48. How do you implement an LRU (Least Recently Used) cache?

An LRU cache is typically implemented using a hash map (for fast access) and a doubly linked list (for maintaining the order of access). Example: When the cache reaches its limit, the least recently used element is removed. For example, in a web browser, the most recently accessed pages are kept in memory, and the least recently accessed ones are removed when the cache is full.

Q 49. What is a linked list, and how does it differ from an array?

A linked list is a linear data structure where each element points to the next element, whereas an array stores elements in contiguous memory locations.

Q 50. What is the time complexity of bubble sort?

The time complexity of bubble sort in data structure is O(n^2), where n is the number of elements.

Q 51. What is the purpose of the ‘final’ keyword in Java?

The final keyword can be applied to variables, methods, and classes. It indicates that the value of a variable cannot be changed, a method cannot be overridden, and a class cannot be subclassed.

Read More: What is Exception Handling in Java?: try, catch, throw, finally

Sample Code

final int MAX_SIZE = 100; // MAX_SIZE cannot be reassigned

Q 52. What is the difference between an abstract class and an interface in object-oriented programming?

An abstract class can provide both abstract methods and concrete methods, while an interface can only define abstract methods (unless default methods are used in languages like Java).

Q 53. How does a quicksort algorithm work, and what is its time complexity?

Quick Sort Algorithm in Data Structures is a divide-and-conquer algorithm that selects a pivot element and partitions the array around it. The time complexity is O(n log n) on average, but O(n^2) in the worst case.

Q 54. What is the difference between `==` and `equals()` in Java?

The `==` operator compares references (whether two objects point to the same memory location), while `equals()` compares the actual content or values of the objects.

Q 55. What is a deadlock in a multi-threaded application, and how do you prevent it?

A deadlock occurs when two or more threads are blocked forever, each waiting on the other to release a resource. It can be prevented by using proper locking mechanisms and avoiding circular dependencies.

Q 56. What is the purpose of exception handling in programming?

Exception handling allows you to manage errors or exceptional conditions that occur during program execution without crashing the program. In Java, the try-catch block allows you to catch and handle exceptions like file not found, database connection errors, etc.

Q 57. What is a race condition in multi-threading?

A race condition occurs when two or more threads access shared data and try to change it at the same time. The outcome depends on the sequence in which the threads execute.

Also Consider: Multithreading in Java

Q 58. How do you implement a priority queue?

A priority queue in the data structure is a data structure where each element has a priority, and the element with the highest priority is served before other elements.

Q 59. How do you avoid memory leaks in Java?

Memory leaks in Java can be avoided by ensuring that unused objects are dereferenced and garbage collection occurs properly.

Q 60. What is the difference between `throw` and `throws` in Java?

The 'throw' keyword is used to explicitly throw an exception from a method or block of code, while throws is used in a method signature to declare that the method may throw an exception.

Example

throw new IllegalArgumentException("Invalid argument");

Q 61. What is a singleton pattern in object-oriented design?

The singleton design pattern ensures that a class has only one instance and provides a global point of access to that instance.

Example

In the following code, the `Singleton` class ensures that only one instance of the class is created, and it can be accessed through the `getInstance()` method:

class Singleton {
    private static Singleton instance;
    private Singleton() {}
    public static Singleton getInstance() {
        if (instance == null) {
            instance = new Singleton();
        }
        return instance;
    }
}

Q 62. What is the difference between static and non-static methods?

Static methods belong to the class itself, while non-static methods belong to instances of the class.

Example

A static method can be called without creating an instance of the class, whereas a non-static method requires an object to be invoked:

class MyClass {
    static void staticMethod() { System.out.println("Static method"); }
    void nonStaticMethod() { System.out.println("Non-static method"); }
}

Q 63. What is the difference between `ArrayList` and `LinkedList` in Java?

ArrayList in Java uses a dynamic array to store elements and provides fast random access but slower insertions and deletions. A LinkedList in Javauses a doubly linked list and offers faster insertions and deletions but slower random access.

Example

Use an `ArrayList` when you need fast lookups by index, and use a `LinkedList` when you frequently add or remove elements. For example, an `ArrayList` might be used to store a list of names, and a `LinkedList` might be used to implement a queue where elements are added and removed frequently.

Q 64. What is the difference between a class and an object?

A class is a blueprint for creating objects, while an object is an instance of a class.

Example

If `Car` is a class, then an object of that class would be a specific car like `myCar = new Car();` which creates an instance of the `Car` class.

Q 65. Explain the concept of inheritance in object-oriented programming.

Inheritance in object-oriented programming allows a class to acquire the properties and behaviors of another class. It promotes code reusability and hierarchical relationships.

Sample Code

In Java, a class `Dog` can inherit from a class `Animal` to reuse its methods like `bark()`:

class Animal {
    void sleep() { System.out.println("Animal sleeps"); }
}

class Dog extends Animal {
    void bark() { System.out.println("Dog barks"); }
}
In this example, `Dog` inherits from `Animal` and can use the `sleep()` method from `Animal` while adding its own method, `bark().`

Q 66. What is a constructor in Java, and what is its purpose?

A constructor in Java is a special method used to initialize objects of a class. It is called when an object is created.

Example

A constructor with no parameters initializes the object with default values, while a constructor with parameters initializes it with custom values. For example:

class Car {
    String color;
    Car(String color) {
        this.color = color;
    }
}
Car myCar = new Car("Red");
This constructor assigns the value "Red" to the `color` attribute of the `Car` object.

Q 67. What is the difference between an interface and an abstract class?

Interfaces define a contract for classes to implement, while abstract classes can provide both abstract and concrete methods.

Q 68. What is the purpose of a `final` class in Java?

A final class cannot be subclassed. This is useful when you want to prevent inheritance and ensure the class's behavior is not altered.

Example

final class MathUtil {
    public static int add(int a, int b) {
        return a + b;
    }
}
In this case, the `MathUtil` class cannot be extended, and no subclass can modify its behavior.

Q 69. What is multithreading in Java, and why is it used?

Multithreading in Java is a process of executing multiple threads concurrently to improve performance by performing multiple operations simultaneously.

Example

A web server might use multithreading to handle multiple client requests at the same time, creating a new thread for each request to avoid blocking other operations.

Q 70. What are Java annotations, and how are they used?

Java annotations provide metadata about a program but do not affect its execution. They are often used to provide information to the compiler or at runtime.

Example

An annotation like `@Override` tells the compiler that a method is intended to override a method in the superclass:

@Override
public void run() {
    System.out.println("Running");
}
In this case, the `@Override` annotation helps to ensure that the method correctly overrides a method from the parent class.

Amazon Interview SQL Database Questions

Q 71. What is the difference between `INNER JOIN` and `OUTER JOIN`?

INNER JOIN in SQL returns only the rows where there is a match in both tables. While 'OUTER JOIN in SQL' returns rows even if there is no match in one of the tables.

Types of OUTER JOIN include:

  • LEFT OUTER JOIN: returns all rows from the left table and matching rows from the right table.
  • RIGHT OUTER JOIN: returns all rows from the right table and matching rows from the left table.
  • FULL OUTER JOIN: returns rows when there is a match in either the left or right table.

    Q 72. What is a `GROUP BY` clause, and how does it work?

    The GROUP BY clause groups rows that have the same values into summary rows, like finding the total or average of a column.

    Example

        SELECT product_id, SUM(sales)
        FROM sales
        GROUP BY product_id; 

    Q 73. What is the difference between `HAVING` and `WHERE`?

    • WHERE filters rows before grouping.
    • HAVING filters groups after grouping.

    Example

        SELECT product_id, SUM(sales)
        FROM sales
        GROUP BY product_id
        HAVING SUM(sales) > 1000;   

    Q 74. What are aggregate functions in SQL?

    Aggregate functions perform a calculation on a set of values and return a single result. Common aggregate functions include:

    • COUNT()
    • SUM()
    • AVG()
    • MIN()
    • MAX()

    Q 75. What is a `Subquery` in SQL?

    A subquery is a query nested inside another query. It can be used to retrieve data that will be used in the outer query.

    Example

        SELECT employee_id, employee_name
        FROM employees
        WHERE department_id = (SELECT department_id FROM departments WHERE department_name = 'Sales');    

    Q 76. What is the difference between `UNION` and `UNION ALL`?

    • UNION combines the results of two queries and removes duplicates.
    • UNION ALL combines the results of two queries and does not remove duplicates.

    Example

        SELECT city FROM customers
        UNION
        SELECT city FROM suppliers;   

    Q 77. What is the purpose of `INDEX` in SQL?

    An index is used to speed up the retrieval of data. It improves query performance, especially for SELECT queries, but can slow down INSERT, UPDATE, and DELETE operations.

    Example:

        CREATE INDEX idx_customer_name ON customers (customer_name);  

    Q 78. What are the PRIMARY KEY and FOREIGN KEY?

    The PRIMARY KEY and FOREIGN KEY are:

    • PRIMARY KEY uniquely identifies each record in a table. It does not allow NULL values.
    • FOREIGN KEY is a field in one table that uniquely identifies a row of another table, creating a relationship between tables.

    Q 79. What is Normalization, and why is it important?

    Normalization in SQL is the process of organizing data in a database to reduce redundancy and improve data integrity. The main levels of normalization are:

    • First Normal Form (1NF)
    • Second Normal Form (2NF)
    • Third Normal Form (3NF)

    Q 80. What is Denormalization, and why is it used?

    Denormalization is the process of combining tables to reduce the complexity of queries. It can improve performance by reducing the need for multiple joins but may introduce data redundancy.

    Q 81. What is `TRUNCATE` and `DELETE` in SQL?

    • TRUNCATE removes all rows from a table but keeps the structure for future use. It is faster and cannot be rolled back.
    • DELETE removes rows based on a condition and can be rolled back if used in a transaction.

    Q 82. What is `AUTO_INCREMENT` in SQL?

    AUTO_INCREMENT is used to automatically generate a unique number for a column when a new record is inserted. It is commonly used for primary keys.

    Example

        CREATE TABLE users (
            user_id INT AUTO_INCREMENT PRIMARY KEY,
            username VARCHAR(50)
        );  

    Q 83. Explain the `CASE` statement in SQL.

    The CASE statement is used to add conditional logic in SQL queries.

    Example

        SELECT employee_name,
               CASE 
                   WHEN salary > 50000 THEN 'High'
                   WHEN salary > 30000 THEN 'Medium'
                   ELSE 'Low'
               END AS salary_range
        FROM employees;  

    Q 84. What is a `VIEW` in SQL?

    A VIEW in SQL is a virtual table that consists of a stored query. It can be used to simplify complex queries, and data can be retrieved from views just like a regular table.

    Example

        CREATE VIEW employee_details AS
        SELECT employee_id, employee_name, department_name
        FROM employees
        JOIN departments ON employees.department_id = departments.department_id;  

    Q 85. What is `LIMIT` in SQL?

    The LIMIT clause is used to specify the number of records to return from a query.

    Example

        SELECT * FROM employees
        LIMIT 5; 
    

    Amazon System Design Interview Questions

    Q 86. Design a URL shortening service like Bit.ly

    Description: Create a service that converts long URLs into short ones. Focus on unique URL generation, database storage, and handling large-scale user requests.

    Q 87. Design a messaging system like WhatsApp.

    Description: Build a real-time messaging service that allows users to send text, images, and media. Ensure scalability, push notifications, and message delivery.

    Q 88. Design a scalable file storage system (like Google Drive).

    Description: Design a system that allows users to store and access large files using cloud storage, metadata management, and replication for reliability.

    Q 89. Design a Rate Limiter.

    Description: Implement a system that restricts the number of API requests a user can make within a time period to avoid overloading servers.

    Q 90. Design a recommendation system like Amazon's product recommendations

    Description: Build a system that suggests products to users based on their preferences and behavior, utilizing collaborative filtering, content-based filtering, and hybrid methods.

    Q 91. Design a distributed cache system

    Description: Create a cache that stores frequently accessed data to reduce database load and increase performance using systems like Redis or Memcached.

    Q 92. Design a distributed logging system

    Description: Implement a centralized logging system to collect and store logs from various servers for monitoring and troubleshooting using tools like ELK stack.

    Q 93. Design a voting system

    Description: Build a system where users can cast votes on topics. It should prevent multiple votes from the same user and ensure real-time updates.

    Q 94. Design a cache eviction policy (Least Recently Used - LRU)

    Description: Implement a cache management strategy that evicts the least recently used data when the cache is full to make space for new data.

    Q 95. Design a system for storing and querying billions of rows of data

    Description: Build a system capable of storing large amounts of data and ensuring efficient querying and indexing, often using NoSQL databases or distributed systems.

    Q 96. Design an online multiplayer game backend

    Description: Create a backend for an online multiplayer game, handling real-time player communication, game state management, and scalability for large numbers of users.

    Q 97. Design a search engine like Google

    Description: Design a system that indexes the web and ranks search results using algorithms like PageRank while ensuring fast and accurate searches.

    Q 98. Design a system for streaming data (like Kafka)

    Description: Build a system that processes real-time data streams, enabling high-throughput ingestion, storage, and analysis.

    Q 99. Design a global content delivery network (CDN)

    Description: Design a CDN that caches and delivers content quickly to users from the nearest server, improving website load times and ensuring high availability.

    Q 100. Design a system for real-time analytics

    Description: Build a system that collects, processes, and analyzes data in real-time, providing up-to-date insights and visualizations, often used for monitoring and decision-making.

    Q 101. Design a payment gateway system

    Description: Create a payment gateway system that allows secure processing of online transactions, handling various payment methods, fraud detection, and ensuring compliance with regulations.

    Practice smart, crack your next interview!

    Amazon Data Engineer Interview Questions

    Q 102: What is the ETL process, and how do you design it?

    The ETL process involves extracting data from various sources, transforming it to a usable format, and loading it into a data warehouse. I focus on scalability, error handling, and ensuring data quality at each stage.

    Q 103: Can you explain key data warehousing concepts?

    Data warehousing organizes large datasets for analysis. Key concepts include star and snowflake schemas, OLAP for analytical processing, data marts for specific departmental needs, and ETL to prepare data for querying.

    Q 104: How do you optimize SQL queries?

    I optimize SQL queries by using indexes, selecting only necessary columns, minimizing complex joins and subqueries, and reviewing the query execution plan to identify bottlenecks.

    Q 105: What is the difference between normalization and denormalization?

    Normalization reduces data duplication by organizing it into related tables, which is ideal for transactional systems. Denormalization combines tables to make queries faster, which is useful for analytics.

    Q 106: How does Amazon Redshift work, and how do you use it?

    Amazon Redshift is a cloud-based data warehouse that handles large datasets with parallel processing and columnar storage, making it ideal for analytics. I typically use Redshift with AWS Glue for ETL and Amazon S3 for data storage.

    Q 107: How would you handle unstructured data?

    Unstructured data can be stored in a data lake like Amazon S3. I use tools like Spark or Hadoop for processing, and I often convert the data into structured formats like Parquet or ORC to simplify querying.

    Q 108: What strategies do you use to ensure data quality?

    I ensure data quality by validating data at each ETL stage, setting up data profiling checks, removing duplicates, and configuring automated alerts to monitor ongoing data quality.

    Q 109: Can you explain data partitioning and why it’s important?

    Data partitioning divides large datasets into smaller segments, often based on criteria like date. This approach improves query performance by allowing only relevant partitions to be scanned.

    Q 110: Describe schema design considerations for analytics.

    For analytics, I use star or snowflake schemas. Fact tables store quantitative data, while dimension tables hold descriptive data. Proper indexing and key constraints further optimize performance.

    Q 111: How do you build and scale data pipelines?

    I build scalable data pipelines by creating modular components, using managed services like AWS Glue or Apache Airflow for scheduling, and ensuring each part can scale independently as data volumes increase.

    Q 112: Describe your experience with big data tools.

    I am experienced with big data tools like Hadoop and Spark for processing, Kafka for real-time streaming, and AWS tools such as EMR, S3, and Redshift for storage and analytics.

    Q 113: How do you handle data security and compliance?

    I ensure data security through encryption, access control, and compliance with regulations like GDPR or HIPAA. In AWS, I use IAM for permissions, KMS for encryption keys, and CloudTrail for auditing.

    Q 114: What is the difference between a data lake and a data warehouse?

    A data lake, such as Amazon S3, stores raw, unstructured, and structured data, while a data warehouse, like Amazon Redshift, is structured and optimized for fast analytics.

    Q 115: How does caching improve data access, and where would you use it?

    Caching speeds up data access by storing frequently accessed data in memory. It is useful for high-demand data and helps reduce database load and improve response times.

    Simple Tips and Tricks for Cracking Amazon Interview 

    Here, we have mentioned some important points to remember while preparing for the Amazon Interview:

    • Know Amazon’s Leadership Principles: Prepare examples that show customer obsession, ownership, and problem-solving.
    • Practice Coding Daily: Focus on data structures and algorithms on sites like LeetCode and HackerRank.
    • Use STAR for behavioral Answers: Structure responses into situations, tasks, actions, and results for clarity.
    • Show Problem-Solving Approach: Break down problems and explain your thinking.
    • Learn System Design Basics: Understand scalability, reliability, and large data handling.
    • Prepare for Leadership Questions: Have examples ready that demonstrate teamwork, ownership, and resilience.

    Also Read: Most Commonly Asked HR Questions and Answers 

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, preparing for the Amazon interview process requires a solid understanding of core concepts and problem-solving skills. By studying common Amazon interview questions and practicing Amazon interview questions with answers, candidates can gain confidence and improve their chances of success. A focused approach to technical and behavioral questions helps demonstrate Amazon's skills and values. Remember, thorough preparation is key to showcasing your abilities effectively.

    FAQs

    For technical roles, Amazon values strong skills in data structures, algorithms, and problem-solving, as well as proficiency in languages like Java, Python, or C++. Familiarity with system design concepts and cloud technologies (especially AWS) can also be beneficial. 

    For system design questions, break down the problem, outline the system components, and discuss trade-offs for scalability, reliability, and efficiency. It’s essential to explain your thought process and design choices clearly. 

    Amazon is language-flexible, allowing candidates to choose familiar languages. However, Java, Python, and C++ are commonly used and preferred in technical interviews due to their applicability to problem-solving questions. 

    Prepare specific examples from your experiences that align with Amazon's Leadership Principles. Structure your answers using the STAR method, showing how you demonstrated principles like Customer Obsession, Ownership, and Bias for Action.

    Yes, data engineering candidates should prepare for ETL processes, SQL and database concepts, data modeling, and big data tools like Hadoop and Spark. Familiarity with AWS data services, such as Redshift and Glue, can also be helpful. 
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    About Author
    Shailendra Chauhan (Microsoft MVP, Founder & CEO at Scholarhat by DotNetTricks)

    Shailendra Chauhan, Founder and CEO of ScholarHat by DotNetTricks, is a renowned expert in System Design, Software Architecture, Azure Cloud, .NET, Angular, React, Node.js, Microservices, DevOps, and Cross-Platform Mobile App Development. His skill set extends into emerging fields like Data Science, Python, Azure AI/ML, and Generative AI, making him a well-rounded expert who bridges traditional development frameworks with cutting-edge advancements. Recognized as a Microsoft Most Valuable Professional (MVP) for an impressive 9 consecutive years (2016–2024), he has consistently demonstrated excellence in delivering impactful solutions and inspiring learners.

    Shailendra’s unique, hands-on training programs and bestselling books have empowered thousands of professionals to excel in their careers and crack tough interviews. A visionary leader, he continues to revolutionize technology education with his innovative approach.
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