AI Interview

SQL Interview - Intermediate Level

For developers with 2-4 years of SQL experience. Master complex JOINs, subqueries, window functions, CTEs, indexes, and query optimization.

25-30 minutes

2-4 years of SQL experience

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Who is this for?

  • Mid-level backend developers

  • Data analysts with SQL experience

  • Database developers

  • Those preparing for mid-senior data roles

What you'll practice

  • Using all JOIN types effectively

  • Writing complex subqueries

  • Working with window functions

  • Creating CTEs (WITH clause)

  • Understanding indexes

  • Optimizing query performance

Topics covered

Advanced JOINs

  • LEFT, RIGHT, FULL OUTER JOIN

  • Self JOINs

  • Multiple table JOINs

  • CROSS JOIN

Window Functions

  • ROW_NUMBER, RANK, DENSE_RANK

  • PARTITION BY

  • LAG, LEAD

  • Aggregate window functions

CTEs & Subqueries

  • Common Table Expressions

  • Correlated subqueries

  • EXISTS and NOT EXISTS

  • Subquery patterns

Performance

  • Indexes basics

  • Query optimization

  • EXPLAIN command

  • Transaction basics

Example questions

Q:

What is the difference between RANK and DENSE_RANK?

Q:

How do you use window functions with PARTITION BY?

Q:

What are CTEs and when should you use them?

Q:

How does a self JOIN work?

Q:

What are indexes and how do they improve performance?

Q:

How do you optimize a slow query?

Preparation tips

  • Master all JOIN types

  • Practice window functions extensively

  • Learn CTEs and when to use them

  • Understand index usage

  • Study query execution plans

  • Practice complex analytical queries

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