CodeSignal is an assessment platform for developers by developers. If you were invited to complete an evaluation on the CodeSignal platform, read on to learn what you can do to be prepared for your evaluation and let your skills shine!
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This article will cover:
- Familiarizing Yourself with the Platform
- Understanding the Evaluation Process
- Set Manageable Goals and Expectations
- Find a Relaxing Environment
- Practice Mindfulness Techniques & Prioritize Self-Care
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Familiarizing Yourself with the Platform
Familiarizing yourself with our platform and IDE can help you prepare for what the actual environment will look like when you take one of our skills evaluations. Please feel free to explore our Learn, where you can find different learning materials.
You can set up an account in CodeSignal as a developer and then complete coding challenges to familiarize yourself with the IDE. You can even practice for your technical interviews in the Interview Practice module. If you have the time and want to hone your skills before the interview, follow the steps below.
a. Go to CodeSignal.com and navigate to the Log In tab in the top right. Click on Individual Login.
b. If you are new to CodeSignal, click on the Sign Up here to create an account. If you are a returning developer, Sign In using your registered email address and password.
c. Once you are logged in, you can access practice coding questions by clicking on this green button "Practice Questions". navigating to the PRACTICE tab in Pre-Screens. For more information, see the following support article:
To practice before the assessment you can navigate here
d. Once you begin the practice question:
- You can customize the IDE to code in a more comfortable environment. In the top right corner of the IDE, you can change the coding language. Don't forget to brush up on the syntax and standard library functions of your language choice! The Read Me icon in the toolbar on the left side of the IDE contains helpful information regarding languages and verdicts.
- In the bottom left corner of the IDE, click on the Settings icon to adjust the theme, font size, auto-brackets, etc.
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Understanding the Evaluation Process
We strive to provide as much transparency and clarity about our assessment process as possible to help users succeed. We prioritize clear communication regarding the evaluation structure and expectations to help alleviate anxiety related to uncertainty and empower you to focus on your preparation without unnecessary worry. If there is anything you would like for us to clarify, or if you are worried about something, please reach out to support@codesignal.com, and we will be happy to help!
Depending on your assessment, most Pre-Screens allow you to access the internet during the assessment! Make sure you have quick access to documentation and review some examples of what is allowed and not allowed when searching for syntax.
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Set Manageable Goals and Expectations
Remember that you don’t have to answer every question correctly or solve every problem to demonstrate that you have the skills to do well in a role. Not all candidates are expected to solve every question in the evaluation. Sometimes, focusing on each question as it comes can help you make sure you show at least some of what you can do. You may even find that you’re able to complete more than you realize if you approach an evaluation one step, or one question, at a time. When you get stumped on one part, it may help to shift your focus to another problem or take a step back and read through the question again.
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Find a Relaxing Environment
The test environment, or where and when you take an evaluation, plays a crucial role in managing test anxiety. Creating a relaxing and familiar atmosphere can help you feel more at ease during the assessment. Choose a quiet place with minimal distractions, ensure proper lighting, and set up your workspace in advance if possible. It's a good idea to close any extraneous apps and windows, silence your notifications, and let housemates know not to disturb you. Taking the assessment in a space where you feel comfortable and secure can significantly reduce anxiety levels and improve focus.
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Practice Mindfulness Techniques & Prioritize Self-Care
Mindfulness and relaxation techniques can be helpful tools for managing test anxiety. Engaging in deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, or guided meditation has been found to help calm the mind and body. These techniques can be practiced before, during, and after the test to regulate anxiety levels and promote a sense of calm. Finally, as always, make sure to take care of yourself!
Evaluations in the hiring process can be challenging and stressful, and we hope that some of these tips and resources can help set you up for success. If other strategies have worked for you to help manage stress surrounding assessments, please reach out to support@codesignal.com to share them with us so we can add to these resources and help others succeed.
If you would like to request specific accommodations, please reach out to your recruiter or requesting company that provided you with the invitation. Contact us at support@codesignal.com if you need assistance in reaching out!