How I Use Google (Ethically) During Coding Assessments

As a software developer, I recently sat for a few technical assessments where I was allowed to use Google during the test. At first, it felt like a cheat code — but I quickly realized that using Google effectively and ethically is a skill of its own.

Here’s how I’ve learned to maximize Google like an AI-powered co-pilot while staying fully accountable for my work.

🔍 1. Google Is Not a Solution Engine — It's a Clarifier

I don’t use Google to find entire answers. Instead, I use it to:

• Recall C# syntax or built-in methods (Array.Find, Dictionary.TryGetValue)
• Look up error messages or edge-case behaviors
• Cross-check my logic pattern when stuck (e.g., “two pointer sliding window C#”)

🧠 2. I Start With Brute Force — Then Search to Improve

Every time I tackle a problem, I first:

• Break it down manually
• Sketch the brute-force logic
• Code the basic loop

Then I Google:

“C# optimize dictionary lookup in loop”

or

“C# LINQ sum of group by value”

to improve my solution — not replace it.

🧰 3. I Keep a Google-Efficient Toolkit Open

When I know Google is allowed, I preload:

• ✅ C# Documentation
• ✅ LINQ Examples
• ✅ My GitHub snippets (like reusable TwoSum and GroupBy patterns)
• ✅ A Notion tab with common C# error fixes I’ve collected

This helps me reduce context switching and stay in my zone.

🚫 What I Avoid

• ❌ Copy-pasting from LeetCode without understanding
• ❌ Spending 5+ minutes reading deep discussions
• ❌ Searching for “the exact problem title” (easily detectable!)

✅ The Result

I use Google like I use Copilot or ChatGPT — as a thought extender, not a replacement for problem-solving.

In fact, showing how I reason and improve my own logic with tools like Google has helped me perform better in interviews — and start better tech conversations during debriefs.

🗣️ How About You?

Do you get access to Google during tests?

How do you make sure you're learning — not leaning?

Let’s discuss 👇