Here's how you can evaluate problem solving abilities in a job interview for a Web Applications position.

2 Technical Questions

Incorporate technical questions that require the candidate to explain concepts or troubleshoot issues related to web applications. This will help you gauge their depth of knowledge and ability to articulate complex ideas. For example, you might ask them to describe how they would optimize a web application's performance or secure it against common threats. Their responses will reveal their understanding of key web development principles and their ability to apply this knowledge effectively.

3 Code Review

Request that the candidate review a block of code relevant to web applications. Use the

tag to present the code during the interview. This exercise tests their attention to detail and ability to identify potential problems or areas for improvement. By discussing the code, you can assess their familiarity with coding standards and best practices in web development.
###### Live Coding
A live coding exercise is an excellent way to observe a candidate's problem-solving skills in action. Provide a task that they must complete within a set timeframe, simulating a real-world coding challenge. This will not only test their technical skills but also how they manage pressure and think on their feet. The key is to keep the task relevant to the job and ensure it can be reasonably accomplished within the given time.
###### Behavioral Inquiry
Ask behavioral questions to learn how the candidate has handled past challenges. Encourage them to share specific examples of problems they've solved in previous web application projects. This will help you understand their experience level and how they apply their problem-solving skills in real situations. Pay attention to the strategies they used and how they overcame obstacles, as this can be indicative of their future performance.
###### Team Dynamics
Finally, discuss how the candidate approaches problem-solving within a team setting. Web application development often requires collaboration, so it's important to know how they interact with others to achieve a common goal. Ask about their experience working in teams, how they communicate ideas, and handle differing opinions. This will give you a sense of their interpersonal skills and their ability to contribute to a team environment effectively.
######Here’s what else to consider
This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?