How to Prepare for HackWithInfy

HackWithInfy is a competitive coding marathon. Success requires strong DSA fundamentals, competitive programming experience, and the ability to solve algorithmic problems efficiently under time pressure. The recruitment process includes a challenging written test and tough technical interviews. Structured preparation aligned to each stage is essential.

The Round 1 test has 3 problems in 3 hours: Easy (implementation/DS), Medium (Greedy), Hard (Dynamic Programming). Preparation should focus on these three problem types.

HackWithInfy Preparation Tips

Preparation tips organized by competition round.

1. Round 1: Online Coding Challenge

3 problems, 3 hours. Solve at least 1-2 completely to secure a PPI. Solve all 3 for Power Programmer eligibility.

Master Dynamic Programming

The hard question is usually DP-based. Practice: Longest Increasing Subsequence, Minimum Partition, Subset Sum, Knapsack, Longest Common Subsequence, Matrix Chain Multiplication, Edit Distance, Coin Change, and DP on Trees/Graphs.

Strengthen Greedy Algorithms

The medium question typically requires Greedy. Practice: Activity Selection, Fractional Knapsack, Job Sequencing, Huffman Coding, Minimum Spanning Tree, and Interval Scheduling problems.

Nail Implementation Problems

The easy question tests basic implementation. Practice: Array manipulation, string processing, mathematical computation, simulation, and pattern-based logic. These should be solved quickly to save time for harder problems.

Practice Under Timed Conditions

Simulate the 3-hour, 3-problem format. Practice on LeetCode contests, CodeChef, Codeforces, and HackerRank. Track your performance and identify weak areas.

2. Grand Finale Preparation

Team-based hackathon focusing on building impactful solutions powered by AI.

Learn AI/ML Basics

Recent HackWithInfy themes focus on AI-driven solutions. Learn basics of machine learning, generative AI, smart automation, and how to build practical AI applications.

Practice Team Collaboration

The Grand Finale is team-based. Practice working in teams, dividing tasks, communicating effectively, and presenting solutions to judges.

3. Interview Preparation

Technical interview covers DSA, system design, resume, and latest technology.

Deep DSA Revision

Revise all major data structures and algorithms. Be ready to discuss time/space complexity, trade-offs, and optimization approaches.

System Design Basics

For Power Programmer interviews, basic system design knowledge is expected. Study: load balancing, caching, database sharding, microservices, and API design.

Research Infosys

Study: Founded 1981, Bengaluru, CEO Salil Parekh, 300,000+ employees, $18+ billion revenue, 50+ countries. Understand Infosys's digital transformation and AI strategy.

4. Technical Interview

Covers competitive programming concepts, DSA, and resume projects.

Competitive Programming Concepts

Be ready to discuss your approach to Round 1 problems. Explain your algorithmic thinking, optimization choices, and complexity analysis.

Resume and Projects

Discuss projects in depth: problem statement, technology choices, architecture, challenges, and outcomes. Highlight any AI/ML, web development, or system-level projects.

5. HR Component

HR-type questions are included in the technical interview.

Standard Behavioral Questions

Prepare: self-introduction, why Infosys, career goals, strengths/weaknesses, and teamwork examples.

Frequently Asked QuestionsFAQ

How should I start preparing for HackWithInfy?

Start with DSA fundamentals 8-12 weeks before. Focus on DP and Greedy algorithms. Practice daily on LeetCode/CodeChef/Codeforces.

What is the most important topic?

Dynamic Programming for the hard question. Greedy algorithms for the medium question. Implementation skills for the easy question.

How many problems should I solve to get Power Programmer?

Solve 2-3 problems completely (all test cases) and perform excellently in the interview.

What programming language should I use?

C, C++, Java, Python, or JavaScript. Use whatever you are most comfortable with. C++ is popular for competitive programming due to speed.

Are there mock tests available?

Yes. Infosys provides a mock test after registration. Also practice on competitive programming platforms.

What is tested in the interview?

DSA concepts, competitive programming approach, resume projects, system design (for PP), and HR-type questions.

How do I prepare for the Grand Finale?

Learn AI/ML basics, practice team collaboration, and prepare to build and present impactful solutions.

Is system design tested?

For Power Programmer interviews, basic system design knowledge is expected.