adds a couple of ES6 related questions (partly addresses #421)

[Powell-v2]

Here is an addition to JS section: 4 questions about latest ES6 standard.

1. What is the most modern approach to accessing the list of arguments passed to a function?

This question identifies if candidate is aware of rest syntax, which is the modern standard for handling parameters passed to a function. Explaining what is the problem with arguments, imo, should count as bonus points.

2. What are the benefits of using spread syntax and how is it different from rest syntax?

If a candidate knows in which cases to opt for spread syntax, it means that he/she is writing more concise, cleaner code (e.g. replacing apply). Knowing the difference is really important since both syntaxes look exactly the same, but the aims are different.

3. How can you share code between files?

This one tests candidate's knowledge about ES6 modules, which is an essential part of modern day web development.

4. Why you might want to create static class members?

The purpose is to elicit an explanation of "static vs. private", plus common use case for static class methods.

[blackfalcon]

These are great questions. Especially the one about spread vs rest syntax. I have always felt a little gross when considering using the apply() method to pass in an array to a function. 👍

That being said, I am wondering if the preceding question What is the most modern approach to accessing the list of arguments passed to a function? is really necessary? What is the most modern approach while these methods are new with ES6, that statement is pretty opinionated. I'd argue that by simply asking the question specifically about the spread versus rest syntax you are already asking the first question.

[Powell-v2]

You have a valid point : )

However rest operator improves on arguments - no need to convert, already a fully-fledged array. The idea is that 2nd question build on the 1st one. And as you pointed out, most modern refers to the latest method that became available - how is this opinionated?

Anyway, could be rephrased or completely removed, up to you : )

[blackfalcon]

@Powell-v2 my reference to most modern being an opinion as this is not an official statement of the specification. It is an opinionated statement that this is a modern technique, of which I don't disagree, but in the vein of giving questions the longest lifespan possible, I suggest not stating it that way.

In short, will this still be the most modern solution in 3 years?

[Powell-v2]

In short, will this still be the most modern solution in 3 years?

Probably not, who knows.

How about rephrasing: "What is the latest standard for accessing the list of arguments passed to a function and how it compares to other approaches?"

[blackfalcon]

I guess, as an interviewer, I would never ask that question as there is too much room for debate. Again, I assume that this is in reference to the spread syntax versus using the apply() hack?

I guess I have a personal preference for more direct questions as not to let the interviewee flail.

 What are the benefits of using spread syntax and how is it different from rest syntax?

Great question. Maybe something along this line of questioning that reveals the dev's knowledge of passing in an array to a function.

[Powell-v2]

I assume that this is in reference to the spread syntax versus using the apply() hack?

What I had in mind was the 'rest syntax' which eliminates the need to convert arguments object into array:

function f(a, b) {
  let args = Array.prototype.slice.call(arguments);
  // or
  let _args = Array.from(arguments);
}

vs.

function f(...args) {
  // no need for conversion, args variable is ready for slicing and dicing 
}

[blackfalcon]

Right. I had assumed that you were referencing the spread side of the story, not the rest side. This is where I feel clearer questions help everyone.

[Powell-v2]

Indeed. I'm glad we discussed this : ) Commit has been updated - I removed 1st question.

[roblarsen]

🥇