The Nearest Value Mapper
A medium Python mock interview question on DataDriven. Practice with AI-powered feedback, real code execution, and a hire/no-hire decision.
- Domain
- Python
- Difficulty
- medium
- Seniority
- L5
Interview Prompt
Given keys (list of integers) and values (list of integers), return a dict mapping each key to the value whose numeric distance is smallest. Distance is abs(key - value). When a key is equidistant from two values, break the tie by choosing the smaller value. Duplicate keys are allowed; the last occurrence wins. The returned dict uses STRING keys (e.g. key 5 becomes "5") for JSON compatibility in the test harness, with the chosen integer value.
Summary
Close enough counts. Ties go low.
How This Interview Works
- Read the vague prompt (just like a real interview)
- Ask clarifying questions to the AI interviewer
- Write your python solution with real code execution
- Get instant feedback and a hire/no-hire decision