.png){kind=logo}
Handpicked titles for beginner to senior-level software roles
Covers coding, system design, clean code, and real-world problem solving
Blends timeless classics with trending 2025 releases
It takes more than knowing how to code to ace a coding interview in today’s competitive tech hiring landscape. It requires the ability to think, communicate effectively, and solve problems under pressure. With FAANG companies and fintech firms still hiring, preparation is more formalized than ever, and the stakes have never been higher.
A combination of classic gems and refreshed releases is guiding developers. From recent graduates to veteran engineers, everyone is using these books to succeed in the contemporary interview process.
Whether you’re looking for entry-level software engineering positions or senior system design jobs, these 10 books are the best bets for cracking the code to your next job offer.
For newbies to the development field or going back to interviews after a break, these books provide structure, strategy, and a solid foundation.
By Gayle Laakmann McDowell
This ultimate classic is the go-to for all developers. With 189 carefully selected questions, behavioral advice, and in-depth explorations of fundamental computer science topics, it’s as much about attitude as it is about programming. If you are interviewing for your first large tech firm interview, this book is not optional.
By Gayle McDowell & Team
Out this year, this highly anticipated sequel is not about more questions, but improved thinking. It presents mental models such as "boundary thinking" and "triggers" that enable you to tackle unfamiliar problems systematically. In 2025, when interviews value systematic thinking, this book addresses a vital gap in the field.
By Aziz, Lee & Prakash
EPI is a more technical, more in-depth alternative to CTCI. It presents readers with more than 250 algorithmic challenges in many languages, providing accurate solutions, analysis, and performance discussions. Suitable for intermediate to advanced candidates looking for high-bar interviews.
By Mongan, Kindler & Giguère
Ideal for early prep, this book remains approachable while providing useful coverage of essential topics, ranging from recursion and arrays to object-oriented design. It’s also one of the only books that teaches how to discuss problems in live interviews.
By Aditya Bhargava
If you’re intimidated by data structures and algorithms, this is the best place to start. With its highly visual, illustration-driven approach, Bhargava’s book simplifies DSA concepts like graphs, recursion, and search algorithms. Great for beginners and visual learners.
With interviews increasingly challenging not only code but also architecture and scalability, these books provide the strategic depth needed to excel in senior and backend-dominant positions.
By Cormen, Leiserson, Rivest & Stein
This university heavyweight is commoy used in computer science classes and is now gaining new relevance with algorithm-specific interviews. If algorithmic subtlety is needed in your job, such as quant finance or R&D, CLRS gives a sound theoretical foundation.
By Steven Skiena
Skiena’s book is more accessible than CLRS, yet equally rewarding. It combines theory with practical "war stories" about actual software issues and contains an invaluable catalog of algorithmic techniques. Numerous seasoned developers use it as a preparation reference staple.
By Robert C. Martin
Coding interviews are not only about logic, but also about clarity. Clean Code instructs naming, structure, refactoring, and habits that hiring managers value during pair programming or take-home exercises. It’s particularly helpful for startups or product-focused teams.
By Steve McConnell
A professional software development bible, this book is a must-read for developers looking for senior positions. From debugging to defensive programming, it’s a manual on writing careful, scalable, and maintainable code.
By Alex Xu
System design rounds can make or break mid-to-senior-level interviews. Xu’s books give readers an idea about how to build scalable systems, like rate limiters, social media feeds, and payment platforms, using clear frameworks, diagrams, and trade-off analysis. A staple for backend engineers and aspiring leads.
Books strengthen your conceptual toolkit, permit you to absorb a problem-solving approach deeply within yourself, and instruct you in communicating technical choices. They’re not a matter of velocity, depth.
The best method is to combine books with regular coding exercises on sites, mimic interviews with fellow students, and think over every error. Read Clean Code, then refactor the previous work. Practice EPI problems, then walk through your thought process out loud.
Ultimately, interviews reward candidates who show simplicity and problem-solving skills. These 10 books won’t merely serve to get you through the next round; they’ll make you a stronger, more acute engineer in the long term.
1. Which book is best for beginners in coding interviews?
Grokking Algorithms is a great starting point for beginners due to its visual, easy-to-understand approach.
2. Is Cracking the Coding Interview still relevant in 2025?
Yes, it remains a gold standard for coding interview prep, especially for FAANG-level roles.
3. What book should I read for system design interviews?
System Design Interview by Alex Xu is the most widely recommended for scalable architecture questions.
4. Do I need to read all 10 books to succeed?
No, pick 2–4 based on your current level, goals, and time—quality over quantity matters.
5. Can these books help with LeetCode-style questions?
Yes, most of these books teach problem-solving strategies directly applicable to LeetCode and similar platforms.
