Should SWEs use generative AI tools like ChatGPT and GitHub Copilot for interview prep?

Generative AI tools like ChatGPT, GitHub's Copilot, and others have become wildly popular. At Formation, we've noticed many SWEs are just as enthusiastic about these tools as we are! However, their rise brings up important questions:

• Should you use these tools?
• If so, how and when?
• More importantly, when should you not use them?

The short answer to the first question is a resounding yes — these tools can significantly boost productivity and learning. But to truly benefit, you need to know when and how to use them wisely, as well as when they might actually hinder your growth.

Generative AI as a force multiplier

At their best, generative AI tools are a force multiplier for your skills. A strong engineer who uses these tools effectively can become massively more productive, while a weaker engineer will still see benefits but on a smaller scale. The difference between a strong and a weak engineer becomes even more pronounced with generative AI because these tools amplify your underlying abilities.

That’s why it’s essential to focus on building your skills first. 

At Formation, our goal is to help you become the best engineer you can be and for that to be showcased in interviews. While generative AI is a fantastic tool, relying on it too much during learning and practice can bypass the critical thinking and problem-solving skills you need to develop.

Remember, the goal is not just to solve problems but to become a better problem solver and refine your coding craft.

Smart ways to use generative AI during learning

When practicing or learning, generative AI can be a powerful ally if used correctly. Here are some good uses of AI tools during interview prep practice:

✅ Explaining difficult code

If you’re struggling to understand tricky code, ChatGPT can help unblock your understanding. However, try to figure it out on your own first — AI should be a last resort, not your first step.

✅ Translating code between languages

Generative AI can quickly translate working code into a different programming language, which is a great way to start learning a new language. Use the translated code as a foundation, then write additional code yourself to practice the syntax.

✅ Suggesting improvements to tested code

Once you’ve written and tested code, AI can offer suggestions to improve its efficiency or readability. This approach helps refine your skills while maintaining ownership of the original work.

✅ When generative AI can hurt your growth

While these tools are powerful, there are situations where relying on them can be counterproductive—especially during practice or skill-building. 

Here are some bad uses of generative AI:

❌ Writing code for you during practice

Tools like Copilot might seem like a shortcut, but using them to write code while practicing undermines your learning. Remember, you won’t be allowed to use AI in interviews, and developing your craft now will make you a better coder (and AI user) in the long run.

❌ Solving algorithms or designing implementations

The value of practice problems lies in the process, not just the solution. Letting AI devise algorithms or implementations for you skips the critical thinking that’s essential for improving your skills.

❌ Using AI during tests, benchmarks, or interviews

The purpose of these situations is to evaluate your current skills. Using AI here prevents an accurate assessment and can lead to bigger struggles down the road when challenges become harder. For example, relying on AI early on might cause you to miss foundational skills, leaving you unprepared for more advanced problems later.

Keep the goal in focus

Generative AI tools are undeniably powerful, but their actual value lies in how they complement your learning and development. Use them as a tool to enhance your skills, not as a crutch to bypass the learning process.

Want to dive deeper? Check out our resources on using AI as a tutor!

Get holistic interview prep with Formation

Despite the challenging economy, we've been able to help our Fellows land life-changing roles. Formation’s Mentors come from some of the best tech companies in the world, and the personalized career coaching and supportive community make for a great support system.

If you’re having trouble navigating your job search on your own, apply here and get unconditional support from a team of engineering mentors, technical recruiters, career coaches, and more.