Dataford
Interview QuestionsInterview GuidesExperiencesCoaching
New
Pricing
Get started
Dataford
Popular roles
Software EngineerData AnalystData ScientistData EngineerBusiness AnalystAI EngineerMachine Learning EngineerProduct Manager
Browse
Browse All RolesEvery role hub, from analyst to MLBrowse All CompaniesCompany-specific interview loopsAll Interview GuidesThe full guide library
Top questions by role
Software EngineerData AnalystData ScientistData EngineerBusiness AnalystAI EngineerMachine Learning EngineerProduct Manager
Top questions by skill
SQLPythonStatisticsMachine LearningA/B TestingSystem DesignGenerative AIProduct SenseMetricsBehavioral
Browse all questions →Try a mock interview
Experiences
Practice
Mock InterviewsTimed interview simulations with feedbackCoaching1:1 coaching with people at your target companiesSuccess PathYour 6-week structured planModulesCurated lessons by topicWebinarsTalks from ex-Big Tech data leadsPlaygroundA free-form scratch editor
Learn
BlogInterview strategy and career adviceTech Job Market ReportHiring trends across data and AI rolesFor UniversitiesDataford for career centersAbout DatafordWho we are and how we build
Pricing
Build my plan
Deep Merge With Business Rules
00:00
5 left

Deep Merge With Business Rules

MediumPython

Problem

Write a function that deeply merges two complex configuration objects while handling arrays and null values according to custom business rules.

Implement def deep_merge(base, override):. Both arguments are JSON-like dictionaries. Recursively merge dictionaries, concatenate arrays as base + override, let non-null override values replace base values, and preserve the base value when an existing key has a null override; keys appearing only in the override are copied, including null values. Return a new object without mutating either input.

Constraints

  • Both inputs are JSON-like dictionaries containing dictionaries, arrays, strings, numbers, booleans, or null
  • Nested dictionaries can have arbitrary depth up to 100 levels
  • Array order must remain base elements followed by override elements
  • The function must not mutate either input object
  • Keys appearing only in the override must be included in the result

Function Signature

def deep_merge(base, override):
Interviewer

Your question is Deep Merge With Business Rules. Start with the requirements in the Question tab.

Run and submit as often as you like. When you're ready, talk me through your approach or go straight to the code.

You need to log in / sign up to run or submit.
CodePython 3
Sign up free to run your codeLog inLn 2
Run your code to see test output here.