SLT Systems Software Engineer

Apple

Given the head of a singly linked list, group all the nodes with odd indices together followed by the nodes with even indices, and return the reordered list. The first node is considered odd, and the second node is even, and so on. Note that the relative order inside both the even and odd groups should remain as it was in the input. You must solve the problem in O(1) extra space complexity and O(n) time complexity. For example: Input: head = [1,2,3,4,5] Output: [1,3,5,2,4] Input: head = [2,1,3,5,6,4,7] Output: [2,3,6,7,1,5,4]

Apple

Let's explore the concept of FIFO (First-In, First-Out) depth in the context of data structures. What is FIFO depth, and why is it important to consider when designing and implementing a FIFO queue?** Explain how FIFO depth affects performance (latency and throughput), resource utilization (memory), and error conditions (overflow and underflow).** Can you provide a detailed example of a real-world scenario where FIFO depth is a critical parameter, like in a communication system or hardware design? For instance, if you are designing a system to process network packets, what factors would influence your choice of FIFO depth for the packet buffer? How does the arrival rate of packets, the processing time for each packet, and the acceptable packet loss rate play a role in determining the appropriate FIFO depth?** Also, discuss different strategies for managing FIFO depth dynamically based on system load and resource availability. How can adaptive FIFO depth control improve overall system performance and robustness?** What are some techniques to estimate the required FIFO depth analytically or through simulation?**

Apple

Let's explore the concept of feedback amplifiers in the context of software development teams. Imagine you are leading a team working on a critical feature for a new mobile application. Communication bottlenecks and misunderstandings are starting to impact the team's velocity and morale. As a senior engineer, you recognize the need to amplify feedback loops to improve team performance. Describe what a feedback amplifier is and how it works in practice.** Provide concrete examples of how you would implement feedback amplifiers within your team. Consider different types of feedback, such as code reviews, sprint retrospectives, and individual performance reviews. Explain the benefits of using feedback amplifiers.** How can they improve code quality, reduce bugs, and increase team collaboration? Quantify the potential impact using hypothetical scenarios or past experiences. For instance, how might more frequent code reviews, coupled with automated static analysis, lead to a measurable reduction in the number of bugs discovered in production? Discuss the potential challenges and pitfalls of implementing feedback amplifiers.** What steps would you take to mitigate these risks? Think about issues like information overload, negative feedback bias, and the time investment required to implement and maintain effective feedback loops. How would you ensure that the feedback process remains constructive, fair, and actionable for all team members? Elaborate on your answer by considering specific tools or techniques you have used in the past to amplify feedback, such as using dashboards to visualize key performance indicators, conducting regular pulse surveys to gauge team sentiment, or establishing a system for tracking and resolving action items from retrospective meetings. Also, discuss how you would tailor your approach based on the size and structure of the team, as well as the specific project goals and constraints.