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Memorise for developer interview?

by Sean Brady · in General Discussion · 05/22/2012 (12:32 pm) · 5 replies

Hello I had a technical test a while ago for a developer role but messed it up due to not having API memorised enough to create a application on the spot without reference; the answers questions was fine though. Role was for PHP, MySQL, Javascript & HTML. I am normally programming in C++ or C so most likely my own mistake.

Is it normal for a developer to have api memorised to a significant level? I thought that's what references are for? I have no problem taking an api, language and reference together and getting something made quick. Is having the API embedded in your brain to such a degree necessary?

Thanks for any clarification provided.
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Torque 3D Owner Luis E Pabon
Independent
#1
05/22/2012 (2:12 pm)
It's strange that you'd need to have the API memorized. Obviously you learn a good number of API functions through normal use, but google and the official API website are all you should really need to know.

Associate David Montgomery-Blake
David MontgomeryBlake
#2
05/22/2012 (3:24 pm)
It really depends on the position and knowledge needed for it. If, for example, it had a significant amount of Zend framework requirements (for example), if you have worked heavily with Zend, you should have a good idea of the API, even if it isn't all-encompassing. You should have some strong implementation ideas.

Ahsan Muzaheed
Default Studio Name
#3
05/22/2012 (7:52 pm)
Quote:
API memorised enough to create a application on the spot without reference


"on the spot without reference"--->that is the reason.


Quote: Is it normal for a developer to have api memorised to a significant level?"
i think it is a matter of capability.but it is not necessary.actually "api memorised to a significant level" is abnormal.depeloping apps without any knowledge on api of a particular framework is also an skill.

S Gorlitz
#4
05/23/2012 (2:56 am)
well, it shows someone has used PHP (in this case) long enough to get truly familiar with the functions that are used much and their exact parameters

i remember once when i was asked what the fastest timer is on windows during an unofficial interview over MSN

so it's just to separate the hobbyists from the professionals
it gives a good indication of their skill level anyway

Torque Owner Sean Brady
Plasis Games
#5
05/23/2012 (4:27 am)
@Everyone

Thanks. I just should not have gone for a PHP developer role when all I was primarily doing was C & C++. I had some experience with the tech involved but obviously I wasn't a professional web developer even though I thought I was. Stupidity on my part. My own ignorance or arrogance brings me down again but these are the things that make you.

Thanks to everyone once again for helping me understand the situation. Much appreciated. I would be lost without ye lot.