Technical tests are a common part of the recruitment process for Software Developer roles. While they can sometimes feel daunting, they're actually a fantastic opportunity to showcase your skills, problem-solving ability and how you think through challenges.
With the right preparation, you can walk into your technical test feeling confident and ready to impress. Here are some top tips from our team who work in technology recruitment with software professionals every day.
Before you start revising, find out exactly what kind of test you’ll be taking. Is it a coding challenge, a debugging task, a take-home project, or a live pair programming with an interviewer? Will you be working in a specific language like Python, Java, C# or JavaScript?
If you’re unsure, ask your recruiter or the hiring manager. Knowing whether you’ll be timed, which platform you’ll be using, and what tools you’ll have access to will make your preparation much more targeted.
You can also ask how the test will be evaluated – for example, whether they’re looking mostly at speed, code efficiency, readability, or creativity. Once you know this, you can tailor your approach accordingly.
Once you know the format, brush up on the fundamentals. For most roles, this means revisiting key concepts like:
If you’re going for a front-end role, review HTML, CCS, JavaScript and common frameworks. For back-end, make sure you’re comfortable with relevant databases, frameworks and APIs.
If it’s a take-home project, consider using Git for version control and keeping a clear, well-structured commit history – it’s a simple way to demonstrate professionalism and good development habits.
If you know which languages, frameworks, or tools the company uses, spend some time familiarising yourself with them. This could mean brushing up on a specific library, revisiting a particular framework or understanding how their systems are architected. Even scanning their job descriptions, blog posts or public GitHub repositories (if available) can give you valuable clues.
It’s not just about knowing the answers, but performing under pressure. Set a timer when you practice, and try to complete tasks without relying on tools you won’t have during the real test, such as extensive auto-complete or debugging extensions.
If your test will be live, practise explaining your thought process out loud as you code. This will help you feel more confident during the real thing. If the test is timed, scan through all questions first, start with the ones you find easiest, and leave a few minutes at the end to review your work.
In many technical tests, the way you approach the problem matters as much as the final solution. Employers want to see logical thinking, structured problem-solving, and an ability to adapt if you get stuck.
Break challenges into smaller steps, and don’t be afraid to ask clarifying questions during a live test. It’s a sign of good communication and analytical skills. If you make a mistake, explain how you identified it and how you’d correct it – this shows adaptability and a collaborative mindset.
Some tests go beyond pure coding. You might face database queries, debugging exercises, or logic puzzles. Reviewing SQL, practising debugging, and revisiting past projects you’ve worked on can give you an extra edge. Also, test your code before you submit it. A quick run-through to check for syntax errors, handle edge cases, and clean up formatting can make a big difference to your score.
It might sound obvious, but it makes a difference – get a good night’s sleep, eat beforehand, and make sure your internet connection and equipment are working if the test is online. You’ll perform much better if you’re alert, comfortable and calm.
Once it’s over, take a few moments to note down what went well and where you struggled. If the employer or recruiter offers feedback, use it as a learning opportunity – it can help you perform even better in later stages or future applications.
Technical tests are your chance to prove not just what you can code, but how you think and solve problems. With preparation, practice, and the right mindset, you can turn them into a real advantage in the recruitment process.
If you’re applying for a software developer role through Sellick Partnership, we’ll guide you every step of the way – from helping you understand the test format to offering tailored preparation advice.
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