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Software Engineering · Question Set
Introduction & SDLC Models interview questions for placements and exams.
Questions
11
Included in this set
Subject
Software Engineering
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Difficulty
Mixed
Level of this set
Go through each question and its explanation. Use this set as a focused practice pack for Software Engineering.
RAD differs from traditional SDLC models in that it focuses on speed, iterative prototyping and user involvement rather than heavy upfront planning and documentation. Traditional models like Waterfall assume fixed requirements and proceed sequentially.
For complete preparation, combine this set with full subject-wise practice for Software Engineering. You can also explore other subjects and sets from the links below.
Agile is a lightweight, adaptive approach to software development that emphasises collaboration, customer feedback, rapid delivery of small working increments, and responding to change over following a rigid plan. Unlike traditional models like Waterfall, Agile allows frequent changes in requirements, close interaction with customers and team members, and shorter development cycles (sprints). It is preferred in projects where requirements are uncertain or evolving, and where speed-to-market and flexibility are important.
Waterfall: linear, easy to understand and manage, good when requirements are stable; but inflexible when requirements change, and late delivery of working software. /n/n Spiral: combines iterative development with explicit risk management; good for large, complex, high-risk projects; but more expensive and requires risk-analysis expertise. /n/n RAD: emphasises rapid prototyping, user involvement and speed to market; good when time is limited and requirements will change; but needs skilled developers, frequent user involvement and may compromise documentation. /n/n Agile: iterative, incremental, emphasises responding to change, frequent delivery, collaboration; good for dynamic environments and evolving requirements; but may have less predictability, heavier reliance on cross-functional teams and need disciplined practices. /n/n Choosing the right model depends on project size, complexity, requirement stability, time constraint, user involvement and risk.
Software Engineering is a multidisciplinary field that covers not just coding, but the full lifecycle of software: requirements gathering, design, development, testing, deployment and maintenance. Interviewers expect you to recognise that it is more than just programming.
When classifying software you often refer to categories like application software (end-user programs), system software (operating systems, utilities), and embedded software (software built into devices). Knowing the classification helps you discuss project scope and constraints in an interview.
SDLC stands for Software Development Life Cycle. It refers to the sequence of phases or activities a project goes through from inception to retirement. Interviewers expect familiarity with SDLC acronym and its basic meaning.
The Waterfall model is a linear, sequential SDLC model where one phase (requirements, design, implementation, testing, maintenance) must finish before the next starts. This rigidity means it works when requirements are well-understood but is not suitable if they change.
The Iterative Waterfall model allows repetition of phases (for example, design/implement/test cycles) within a broadly waterfall-like structure. This gives some flexibility to correct issues before proceeding to full production.
The Spiral model combines iterative development with risk management: each cycle includes planning, risk analysis, engineering and evaluation. It is suited for large, complex and high-risk projects.
RAD stands for Rapid Application Development. It emphasises fast prototyping, frequent user feedback and minimal upfront planning/documentation so you can deliver usable features quickly. Rad is useful when speed to market and user involvement are priorities.
Understanding Software Engineering and SDLC models is crucial because in an interview you must demonstrate awareness of how software is built, managed and maintained, not just how to code. Knowing SDLC helps you talk about how you would approach projects, manage changes, work with teams and deliver quality. In real projects your tasks often include collaborating, following processes, adhering to quality standards, and working through phases of development. Showing this knowledge indicates you are prepared for more than just writing code—it shows readiness to participate in full software lifecycle.