In an IDE question you solve the challenge inside a full development environment that opens right in your browser. There is nothing to install and nothing to configure: the project is already there, the dependencies are installed for you and the application starts on its own.
Before you start
Use a computer. This question type does not open on phones or tablets.
Use an up-to-date browser, such as Chrome, Edge or Firefox.
Make sure your connection is stable and set aside the time the question requires.
The environment is set up for you
When you open the question we reserve a cloud machine just for you, copy the project files and install the dependencies. This usually takes up to two minutes, and you can follow each step on screen.
The setup time is credited back to your timer as soon as the environment is ready. You do not lose test time while you wait.
The question screen
The screen has two sides. On the left is the brief, with what you need to deliver and what is out of scope. On the right is the development environment: file explorer, code editor, terminal and the preview tab, where the running application appears.
How to work
Read the whole brief before writing any code. It says what will be assessed and what you do not need to do.
Open files from the explorer, to the left of the editor.
Use the terminal to run commands. The development server already starts when the session begins.
Check your work in the preview tab, which follows what you save.
Commit as you go
The project already has a Git repository in place. Use the source control panel to record what you did. The history is part of the delivery and helps the reviewer follow your reasoning.
The question timer
The timer sits at the top of the screen. Click it to see how much time is left.
If you need to step away
After a few minutes without activity you will see “Are you still there?” with a countdown. If you do not confirm, we shut the environment down to free up resources and keep everything you had done.
Your answer stays open: just reload the page to pick up where you left off.
How to submit
When you are done, click Submit in the top right corner and confirm.
You cannot change your answer after submitting. If time runs out first, the answer is finalized automatically, the environment shuts down and everything you did goes to review.
Screen settings
In the settings menu, on the left sidebar, you can pin the navigation bar, switch the theme, change the platform language and check the keyboard shortcuts.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to install anything on my computer?
No. Everything runs in the browser.
Can I use AI assistants?
It depends on the question. When they are not allowed, the brief says so and the assistants are disabled in the environment.
Do I lose my work if my connection drops or I close the tab?
No. The contents of the environment are saved automatically from time to time and restored when you reopen the question. Even so, it is worth committing as you go.
Can I reopen the question after submitting?
No. That is why submitting asks for confirmation.
Do I need to deploy the project anywhere?
No. There is nothing to deploy and no infrastructure to configure.