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SAP·Software Engineer·Technical Phone Screen·Intermediate

Intermediate
May 2026

Summary

SAP coding screen for a software engineer role, pretty light on the surface but they threw in a follow-up that made me think harder than expected.

Questions Asked (1)

Q1

Implement a curried function that takes two arguments one at a time and returns their sum. Then generalize it to handle any number of chained calls, accumulating the total until no argument is passed.

Algorithms & Data StructuresTechnical Trade-offs
Author's notes

The basic version I got down fast, just return a function from a function, done.

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AI HintsAI Generated

Suggested Approach

Start by implementing the simple curried sum for two arguments, then generalize using recursion and a sentinel value (like no argument) to accumulate the total. Explain the concept of currying and how the generalized version leverages closures to maintain state across chained calls.

Pro tip: Mention that the generalized curried function can be implemented elegantly using recursion and a check for undefined arguments, but also discuss potential pitfalls like infinite recursion if not handled properly. Show awareness of real-world use cases and trade-offs.

1. Clarify the requirements

Restate the problem to ensure understanding: first implement a curried function for two arguments, then extend it to accumulate any number of arguments until called with no argument.

2. Implement the basic curried sum

Write a function that takes the first argument and returns a function that takes the second argument and returns their sum. This demonstrates the core concept of currying.

3. Generalize to multiple arguments

Modify the function to accept an arbitrary number of arguments by using recursion: if an argument is provided, add it to the accumulated sum and return a new function; if no argument is provided, return the total.

4. Handle edge cases and termination

Discuss how to detect the termination condition (e.g., calling with no arguments or undefined) and ensure the function doesn't recurse infinitely. Consider using a default parameter or checking arguments.length.

5. Analyze trade-offs and alternatives

Compare the recursive curried approach with other patterns (e.g., using a class or closure with a reset method) and discuss readability, performance, and practical use cases.

Key Points to Mention

  • Definition of currying and its benefits (partial application, function composition).
  • Use of closures to maintain the accumulated sum across chained calls.
  • Recursive implementation for the generalized version.
  • Termination condition: how to signal the end of chaining (e.g., calling with no arguments).
  • Potential issues: infinite recursion, stack overflow for very long chains, and how to mitigate.
  • Real-world applications and trade-offs compared to other patterns.

AI-generated suggestions, not part of the candidate's original notes. May be inaccurate — verify before relying on them.