23 Optimization Interview Questions

Data science optimization maximizes target variables (KPIs) by searching the state space of the predictors/features affecting forecasting and predictive models. The questions below will help interviewers and interviewees prepare for the “data scientist for optimization” interview covering different scenarios, problems, and solutions.

Optimization is finding a way to optimal target given influential parameters.

Scenario Questions

1. Scenario 1: we have a pharmaceutical warehouse in a far city; this warehouse cannot cover all the city’s needs. We want to ensure that the items in the warehouse cover at least 75% of the city’s needs. How would you address this problem?
2. Scenario 2: We are a delivery company with a fleet of cars; how can we find the optimal route for each vehicle to ensure the fastest delivery (regardless of costs)?
3. Scenario 3: A retail company wants to find the best price for our products that maximize the total revenue (calculated as sales count * item price). How would you address this problem, assuming you have the function mapping the sales count per item to the set price?

Problems and solutions

1. Can you explain the Travelling salesman problem and how would you solve it?
2. Can you explain the knapsack problem and how would you solve it?
3. Are you familiar with the bin…