I panicked a little at first because I kept second-guessing my population density assumptions.
Start by clarifying the scope: define what counts as a 'tree' (e.g., all trees in Delhi, including public and private lands) and the purpose (e.g., for urban planning or product strategy). Then, use a structured estimation approach, breaking down Delhi's area into zones (urban, suburban, rural) and estimating tree density per zone based on known data or reasonable assumptions. Finally, validate with sanity checks and discuss implications for Park+.
Pro tip: Acknowledge that this is a Fermi problem and that the process matters more than the exact number; show your ability to make reasonable assumptions and structure your thinking. Also, tie it back to Park+'s business—e.g., how understanding green cover could inform parking solutions or environmental initiatives.
Ask clarifying questions to define 'tree' (e.g., include saplings? only trees above a certain height?) and the boundaries of Delhi (e.g., NCT of Delhi). Confirm the purpose to tailor the estimation.
Divide Delhi into categories such as urban, suburban, and rural areas, or by land use (residential, commercial, parks, forests). Estimate the area of each zone.
For each zone, estimate the number of trees per square kilometer based on typical densities (e.g., urban areas have fewer trees, parks have more). Use known data if available (e.g., Delhi's forest cover).
Multiply area by density for each zone and sum to get an estimate. Show your math clearly.
Compare your estimate with known figures (e.g., Delhi's tree census) and discuss potential errors. Relate the answer to Park+'s context, such as the importance of green spaces for urban mobility.
AI-generated suggestions, not part of the candidate's original notes. May be inaccurate — verify before relying on them.