Problem
You are asked to explain how you would reconcile two SQL reports that show different values for the same KPI. Focus on a practical analyst workflow: compare definitions, inspect joins and filters, align grain, test CASE WHEN logic, and identify the records driving the variance.
What This Tests
- Ability to compare SQL report definitions, not just totals
- Understanding of join behavior and aggregation grain
- Use of CTEs to normalize competing metric logic
- Ability to explain root-cause analysis clearly
Typical Mismatch Signals
Different row counts after joins
Different date columns or month boundaries
Different status filters
Different `CASE WHEN` inclusion rules
Duplicate rows introduced before aggregation
Practicing as: Financial Analyst interview at ASI (Advertising Specialty Institute)Hi, I'll play your ASI (Advertising Specialty Institute) interviewer for the Financial Analyst role. Candidates describe these interviews as mixed and moderately difficult, so expect me to be professional and fair. Take your time with the question above and answer like we're in the room.
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