The Trick Wasn't More Practice

Hi, I'm Kirti Vardhan, currently working as an AI Engineer at Agilemania.

I discovered takeUforward through YouTube, much like many other learners. What started as a simple resource became an important part of my DSA preparation and gave me a strong foundation in problem solving.

Patterns Mattered More Than Problem Counts

I didn't make the number of problems solved my main goal.

Instead, I focused on:

• Recognising patterns.

• Understanding how patterns could be modified.

• Revising previously learned concepts regularly.

• Building strong fundamentals.

Basics Before Speed

My advice to juniors is to build strong foundations before chasing everything else.

Stay updated with new technologies and what's happening in the industry, but don't let that come at the cost of your fundamentals. A strong foundation gives you the confidence to tackle problems you haven't seen before.

The OAs Weren't Getting Easier

During my placement journey, company OAs were becoming increasingly difficult, especially with AI tools changing the way assessments are designed.

I didn't focus on finding shortcuts. My priority was understanding the concepts and being able to solve problems independently. That made it easier to handle questions even when they weren't exactly what I had practised.

The Next Question Could Be Anything

Interviews are a mix of skill and luck.

Sometimes you get questions you've prepared for. Other times, something completely unexpected can come your way. That's why preparation isn't only about knowing more questions. It's also about developing critical thinking and the ability to work through unfamiliar problems.

You can't predict every question, but you can prepare yourself to think when the question is unexpected.

Pattern Recognition Outlasted the Preparation

My journey taught me that solving more problems isn't always the goal.

• Strong fundamentals → Pattern recognition → Pattern modification → Regular revision → Critical thinking

These skills helped me navigate a challenging placement process and continue to help me today as an AI Engineer at Agilemania.