Start by picking one language (C++ or Java is common in India), learn core data structures like arrays, linked lists, trees, and graphs, and solve problems consistently on LeetCode or GFG. A structured practice plan matters more than watching endless tutorials. Mentors who have solved 1000+ problems, like Anuj Saklani, can help you build a personalised DSA interview preparation roadmap instead of a generic one.

Yes. A practical roadmap usually looks like: 2–3 weeks on arrays, strings and hashing, then recursion, linked lists, stacks and queues, followed by trees, graphs, and dynamic programming. Along the way, solve timed mock interviews. Many students from tier-3 colleges in India skip basics and jump to hard problems, which hurts them in interviews — a 1:1 mentorship call with someone like Anuj Saklani can help you fix the order and pace based on your timeline.

Product-based companies in India typically ask 2–3 coding rounds focused on arrays, strings, trees, graphs, and dynamic programming, followed by questions on your projects and core CS fundamentals. The key is explaining your thought process out loud while coding, not just reaching the answer. Practising this communication is where a mentor can give you honest feedback.

Review your resume for quantified impact, clean formatting, relevant keywords from the job description, and projects that show real problem-solving. Avoid listing every technology you've touched. Getting an external resume review from an experienced engineer often catches issues you can't see yourself — Anuj Saklani offers resume review specifically for development and DSA-focused roles.

If you're applying to product-based companies and not getting shortlisted despite good skills, a resume review service from someone working in the industry can be worth it. A working software engineer knows what recruiters and hiring managers actually look for. Just make sure the reviewer gives specific, actionable feedback rather than generic tips.

A software engineer mentorship program pairs you with an experienced engineer who guides you on DSA preparation, resume building, project selection, and interview strategy. Unlike recorded courses, 1:1 mentorship is tailored to your background — especially valuable for tier-3 college students navigating placements off-campus. Anuj Saklani, a backend engineer at Tellius, has mentored 1300+ students in C/C++ and DSA.

Free mentorship exists through communities, LinkedIn, and college seniors, but it's usually inconsistent. If you need structured, dedicated time to discuss your specific situation — like a DSA roadmap or resume feedback — a short paid 1:1 call often gives better outcomes because the mentor is fully focused on your questions for that session.

Look for mentors who are currently working in the role you're targeting and have a track record of helping students. Anuj Saklani offers 1:1 career guidance calls on Topmate, where he helps students plan a practical path into product-based companies — something his mentees specifically mention in their feedback about clearing confusion around career direction.

Good resume projects solve a real problem, use relevant tech (backend APIs, databases, system design basics), and are deployed or well-documented — not cloned tutorial apps. If you're unsure what projects align with the companies you're targeting, a 1:1 call with a working engineer like Anuj Saklani can help you shortlist project ideas that actually strengthen your resume for development roles.