14+ HCL Interview Questions and Answers: For Freshers and Experienced
By upGrad
Updated on Dec 02, 2025 | 9 min read | 7.29K+ views
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By upGrad
Updated on Dec 02, 2025 | 9 min read | 7.29K+ views
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| Did you know? Entry-level tech hiring is projected to soar by a massive 40% in 2025! This booming demand for skilled professionals means acing those HCL interview questions and answers is more crucial than ever for fresh graduates aiming to kickstart their careers. |
Preparing for HCL interviews involves tackling a range of technical questions, from programming fundamentals to advanced system design. Interviewers often assess your understanding of core concepts, such as algorithms, data structures, and Java.
A strong knowledge of technologies like machine learning is also becoming essential in the process. Reviewing these HCL interview questions will equip you with the technical insights needed for success in practical scenarios.
In this guide, we will explore some of the top HCL interview questions and answers for both fresher and experienced candidates.
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This section provides a comprehensive collection of HCL Interview Questions, focusing on core technical domains such as data structures, algorithms, and system design principles. It covers critical problem-solving techniques and deep technical knowledge required for a successful HCL interview process.
To learn computational skills and advanced technologies for excelling in technical interview sessions, the following courses from upGrad can help you succeed.
Here are some of the top HCL interview questions in 2025:
How to Answer:
When answering this question, focus on explaining the four fundamental pillars of Java: Encapsulation, Abstraction, Inheritance, and Polymorphism. Each concept plays a critical role in making Java an object-oriented programming language. These pillars enable Java to manage complexity and enhance code reusability, modularity, and flexibility.
Sample Answer:
Also read: Polymorphism in Java: Concepts, Types, Characterisitics & Examples
How to Answer:
Start by explaining that aggregate functions in SQL process multiple rows and return a single summarized result. Mention how they are used for operations like counting, averaging, or finding the minimum and maximum values. Highlight that in databases like PostgreSQL, these functions are vital for efficiently analyzing large datasets, making complex data queries simpler and faster.
Sample Answer:
How to Answer:
Start by defining cloud computing as the delivery of computing services over the internet, including storage, processing, and databases. Mention platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud, which offer these services on demand, thereby eliminating the need for physical infrastructure. Highlight the importance of cloud computing in terms of scalability, cost efficiency, and security, making it a vital tool for businesses of all sizes.
Sample Answer:
Provide a use case:
Consider an e-commerce startup in India that experiences high traffic during seasonal sales. By using AWS or Azure, the company can quickly scale its infrastructure to handle traffic surges without over-investing in permanent hardware.
Post-sale, the company can scale down the resources, only paying for the usage during peak periods. This flexibility and cost-saving ability enable startups to compete effectively without the financial burden of maintaining large, fixed infrastructure.
How to Answer:
Start by defining Big Data as large, complex datasets that traditional tools can't manage efficiently. Then, explain the key features, volume, velocity, variety, veracity, and value, and how they impact data processing. Conclude by providing an example scenario, such as how companies like Amazon use Big Data for real-time analytics and decision-making.
Sample Answer:
Provide Example Scenario:
For a smartphone retailer, using Big Data from user reviews, transaction logs, and social media streams can help identify emerging trends and customer preferences in real-time, optimizing inventory and marketing strategies dynamically.
Also Read: Top 20 Hadoop Project Ideas for Students & Professionals
Let's explore the most commonly asked HCL interview questions for freshers, focusing on foundational concepts and technical skills.
For freshers, HCL interview questions will focus on evaluating core programming skills, data structures, and algorithm basics. The aim is to assess problem-solving capabilities and a solid understanding of fundamental concepts essential for entry-level roles.
How to Answer:
When answering this question, explain that both Primary Key and Unique Key are used to enforce uniqueness in a table, but there are key differences. The Primary Key is used to uniquely identify records, and there can only be one primary key in a table. In contrast, the Unique Key ensures uniqueness for a column, and there can be multiple unique keys in a table.
Sample Answer:
| Feature | Primary Key | Unique Key |
| Uniqueness | Uniquely identifies each record in a table. | Ensures that all values in the column are unique. |
| Null Values | Cannot accept NULL values. | Can accept NULL values, but only one NULL value is allowed. |
| Number of Keys | Only one Primary Key is allowed in a table. | Multiple Unique Keys can exist in a table. |
| Indexing | Automatically creates a clustered index. | Automatically creates a non-clustered index. |
Also Read: Primary Key vs Unique Key
How to Answer:
When answering this question, explain that aggregate functions in Java typically refer to operations that process a collection of values and return a single result. These functions can be used to perform calculations on numeric data, such as finding the sum, average, or count of a dataset.
In Java, you can achieve these functionalities using libraries like Streams or Collections API, which provide built-in methods for aggregation.
Sample Answer:
Provide Code Example:
import java.util.*;
import java.util.stream.*;
public class AggregateFunctions {
public static void main(String[] args) {
List<Integer> numbers = Arrays.asList(1, 2, 3, 4, 5);
// Using Stream API to apply aggregate functions
long count = numbers.stream().count(); // COUNT
int sum = numbers.stream().mapToInt(Integer::intValue).sum(); // SUM
OptionalDouble avg = numbers.stream().mapToInt(Integer::intValue).average(); // AVG
OptionalInt min = numbers.stream().mapToInt(Integer::intValue).min(); // MIN
OptionalInt max = numbers.stream().mapToInt(Integer::intValue).max(); // MAX
// Printing the results
System.out.println("Count: " + count);
System.out.println("Sum: " + sum);
System.out.println("Average: " + (avg.isPresent() ? avg.getAsDouble() : "N/A"));
System.out.println("Min: " + (min.isPresent() ? min.getAsInt() : "N/A"));
System.out.println("Max: " + (max.isPresent() ? max.getAsInt() : "N/A"));
}
}
Output:
Count: 5
Sum: 15
Average: 3.0
Min: 1
Max: 5
Output Explanation:
The Stream API is used to apply aggregate functions such as count(), sum(), average(), min(), and max() on a list of integers. The mapToInt method is used to convert Integer values to primitive int for aggregation calculations.
How to Answer:
To answer this question, start by explaining that the finalize() method in Java is a method used before an object is destroyed by garbage collector. Mention its primary role in resource management, such as cleaning up resources like file handles or database connections before the object is discarded. Finally, emphasize that finalize() is not guaranteed to run and should be used with caution.
Sample Answer:
Provide Code Example:
class MyResource {
protected void finalize() throws Throwable {
try {
System.out.println("Cleaning up resources...");
// Close connections or release resources here
} finally {
super.finalize(); // Ensures that the superclass finalize method is called
}
}
}
public class FinalizeExample {
public static void main(String[] args) {
MyResource resource = new MyResource();
resource = null; // Object becomes eligible for garbage collection
System.gc(); // Request garbage collection (not guaranteed to run immediately)
}
}
Output:
Cleaning up resources...
Code Explanation:
The finalize() method is overridden in the MyResource class to release resources before the object is garbage collected. The System.gc() call is a request for garbage collection, though its execution is not guaranteed.
To answer this question, start by defining nested classes as classes defined within another class. Explain that in object-oriented programming (OOP), nested classes allow you to logically group classes, improving code organization and readability.
Mention that nested classes can access the members of the outer class, and they can also implement functionality similar to regular classes. Discuss common languages like Java, JavaScript, and CSS (in the context of classes used in styling).
Sample Answer:
Code Example:
class OuterClass {
private String outerMessage = "This is the outer class message.";
// Static nested class
static class StaticNestedClass {
void displayMessage() {
System.out.println("This is the static nested class.");
}
}
// Non-static nested class (Inner class)
class InnerClass {
void displayMessage() {
System.out.println(outerMessage); // Access outer class's private member
}
}
}
public class NestedClassExample {
public static void main(String[] args) {
// Creating instance of static nested class
OuterClass.StaticNestedClass staticNested = new OuterClass.StaticNestedClass();
staticNested.displayMessage();
// Creating instance of non-static nested class
OuterClass outer = new OuterClass();
OuterClass.InnerClass inner = outer.new InnerClass();
inner.displayMessage();
}
}
Output:
This is the static nested class.
This is the outer class message.
Code Explanation:
In the example, StaticNestedClass is a static nested class that can be instantiated without an instance of the outer class. The InnerClass is a non-static nested class that can access the outer class’s private member (outerMessage) directly.
For professionals with experience, preparing for advanced technical questions is crucial to demonstrate expertise in practical scenarios.
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Experienced candidates can expect questions that focus on technical concepts, including system design, Java, and algorithm optimization. The focus is on assessing deep technical knowledge and problem-solving skills relevant to real-world scenarios in software development.
How to Answer:
Start by defining polymorphism in Java as the ability of one method to behave differently depending on the object calling it. It’s a core concept in object-oriented programming (OOP) that promotes code reusability and flexibility.
Explain how polymorphism is implemented using method overriding and overloading, and demonstrate how this approach enables the code to be adaptable to various situations.
Sample Answer:
Code Example:
// Superclass
class Transport {
void modeOfTransport() {
System.out.println("Mode of transport is selected.");
}
}
// Subclass
class Car extends Transport {
@Override
void modeOfTransport() {
System.out.println("Traveling by car: Comfortable and fast for long-distance travel.");
}
}
// Subclass
class Train extends Transport {
@Override
void modeOfTransport() {
System.out.println("Traveling by train: Economical and scenic for long journeys.");
}
}
// Subclass
class Rickshaw extends Transport {
@Override
void modeOfTransport() {
System.out.println("Traveling by rickshaw: Convenient for short trips in cities.");
}
}
public class PolymorphismExample {
public static void main(String[] args) {
// Creating objects for each subclass
Transport myCar = new Car();
Transport myTrain = new Train();
Transport myRickshaw = new Rickshaw();
// Calling method on each object
myCar.modeOfTransport(); // Specific implementation for Car
myTrain.modeOfTransport(); // Specific implementation for Train
myRickshaw.modeOfTransport(); // Specific implementation for Rickshaw
}
}
Output:
Traveling by car: Comfortable and fast for long-distance travel.
Traveling by train: Economical and scenic for long journeys.
Traveling by rickshaw: Convenient for short trips in cities.
Code Explanation:
The modeOfTransport() method is overridden in each subclass (Car, Train, and Rickshaw) to provide specific implementations based on the type of transport. This showcases runtime polymorphism, where the method behavior is determined at runtime based on the object type.
The example resonates with Indian audiences, as it reflects the standard modes of transport in India, including cars, trains, and rickshaws.
How to Answer:
Start by explaining that software analysis and design tools are essential for modeling, structuring, and documenting software systems. These tools facilitate the creation of clear visual representations of software requirements, functionality, and system architecture.
List several popular tools widely used in the industry for both analysis and design, highlighting their importance in enhancing project efficiency.
Sample Answer:
Also Read: Project Management Applications: Real-World Use Cases & Tools
How to Answer:
Start by defining what a perfect number is: a positive integer that equals the sum of its proper divisors (excluding itself). Provide an example, such as 6, where the divisors (1, 2, and 3) add up to 6.
Then, explain that in Java, you can implement a method to check if a number is perfect by iterating through possible divisors, summing them, and comparing the sum with the number itself. Ensure that you emphasize the use of loops and conditionals in the solution.
Sample Answer:
Provide Code Example:
public class PerfectNumber {
// Method to check if a number is perfect
public static boolean isPerfect(int num) {
int sum = 0;
// Find divisors and calculate their sum
for (int i = 1; i <= num / 2; i++) {
if (num % i == 0) {
sum += i;
}
}
// Check if sum of divisors equals the original number
return sum == num;
}
public static void main(String[] args) {
int number = 6;
if (isPerfect(number)) {
System.out.println(number + " is a perfect number.");
} else {
System.out.println(number + " is not a perfect number.");
}
}
}
Output Code:
6 is a perfect number.
Output Explanation:
The isPerfect() method checks if a number is perfect by summing all divisors of the number (excluding the number itself). The loop runs from 1 to half of the number because no divisor can be greater than half of the number.
If the sum of the divisors equals the original number, it returns true; otherwise, false. In this example, the number 6 is checked, and the output confirms it is a perfect number.
Also Read: How to Code, Compile, and Run Java Projects: A Beginner’s Guide
How to Answer:
Start by explaining that Java handles memory management through automatic memory allocation and deallocation, primarily managed by the Java Virtual Machine (JVM). Then, mention the key role of garbage collection, which is the process of automatically reclaiming memory by identifying and disposing of objects.
Finally, discuss the different types of garbage collection algorithms in Java and how they help in optimizing performance and reducing memory leaks.
Sample Answer:
Provide Code Example:
class GarbageCollectionExample {
public static void main(String[] args) {
// Create objects
GarbageCollectionExample obj1 = new GarbageCollectionExample();
GarbageCollectionExample obj2 = new GarbageCollectionExample();
// Nullify reference to one object to make it eligible for garbage collection
obj1 = null;
// Suggest garbage collection
System.gc(); // Request for garbage collection (not guaranteed)
}
@Override
protected void finalize() throws Throwable {
// Final cleanup before garbage collection
System.out.println("Garbage Collector has destroyed the object.");
super.finalize();
}
}
Output:
Garbage Collector has destroyed the object.
Code Explanation:
In the code, the object obj1 is set to null, making it eligible for garbage collection. The finalize() method is overridden to provide a custom message when the object is destroyed by the garbage collector. The System.gc() call is a suggestion to the JVM to run garbage collection, though it’s not guaranteed to execute immediately.
How to Answer:
Start by explaining that multithreading in Java allows multiple threads to run concurrently within a program, enabling better CPU utilization and performance. Mention that Java provides a built-in Thread class and Runnable interface to implement multithreading.
Then, explain how the Thread class provides methods to create, manage, and control threads, such as start(), run(), and sleep(). You can also briefly touch on thread synchronization and the ThreadPoolExecutor for efficiently managing thread pools.
Sample Answer:
Provide Code Example:
class MyThread extends Thread {
@Override
public void run() {
System.out.println(Thread.currentThread().getId() + " is executing the thread.");
}
public static void main(String[] args) {
MyThread thread1 = new MyThread();
MyThread thread2 = new MyThread();
// Starting the threads
thread1.start();
thread2.start();
}
}
Output:
1 is executing the thread.
2 is executing the thread.
Code Explanation:
In the code, the MyThread class extends the Thread class and overrides the run() method to define the thread's task. The start() method is called on each thread (thread1 and thread2) to initiate their execution. This demonstrates the use of Java’s multithreading capability through the Thread class, where each thread operates independently.
14. How does Java's memory model and the volatile keyword work to ensure thread safety?
How to Answer:
Start by explaining Java's memory model and its role in handling shared variables across threads. Mention the volatile keyword and how it ensures that shared variables are updated directly in the main memory, bypassing local caches.
Explain that volatile guarantees visibility but not atomicity, making it suitable for simple flags or state indicators. Additionally, consider how other languages, such as C++ and C#, address memory consistency to provide further context.
Sample Answer:
Provide Code Example:
class SharedResource {
private volatile boolean flag = false; // Ensures visibility across threads
public void toggleFlag() {
flag = !flag; // Changes the value of the volatile variable
}
public boolean getFlag() {
return flag;
}
}
public class VolatileExample {
public static void main(String[] args) throws InterruptedException {
SharedResource resource = new SharedResource();
// Thread 1 that toggles the flag
Thread thread1 = new Thread(() -> {
for (int i = 0; i < 1000; i++) {
resource.toggleFlag();
}
});
// Thread 2 that reads the flag
Thread thread2 = new Thread(() -> {
for (int i = 0; i < 1000; i++) {
System.out.println("Flag: " + resource.getFlag());
}
});
thread1.start();
thread2.start();
thread1.join();
thread2.join();
}
}
Output Code:
Flag: true
Flag: false
Flag: true
...
Code Explanation:
The volatile keyword ensures that the flag is immediately visible across threads. It avoids cached values, ensuring real-time updates. However, volatile alone doesn't ensure atomic operations like increments.
Also Read: Top 74 C++ Interview Questions and Answers for 2025 [For All Levels]
How to Answer:
Begin by explaining that an immutable object in Java is an object whose state cannot be modified once it is created. Discuss how final classes, final fields, and no setters are the primary ways to implement immutability in Java.
Additionally, note how immutable objects provide thread safety and enhance performance by eliminating the need for synchronization.
Sample Answer:
Provide Code Example:
final class Employee {
private final String name;
private final int id;
public Employee(String name, int id) {
this.name = name;
this.id = id;
}
public String getName() {
return name;
}
public int getId() {
return id;
}
}
public class ImmutableExample {
public static void main(String[] args) {
Employee employee = new Employee("Ram", 101);
System.out.println("Employee Name: " + employee.getName());
System.out.println("Employee ID: " + employee.getId());
}
}
Output:
Employee Name: Ram
Employee ID: 101
Code Explanation:
The Employee class is designed to be immutable by declaring the class as final and the fields name and id as final. There are no setter methods, ensuring that the object’s state cannot be modified after it is created. This approach guarantees thread safety and ensures that the Employee object remains consistent across different threads.
Also Read: 50 Java Projects With Source Code in 2025: From Beginner to Advanced
Let’s explore some of the key tips to excel in your HCL interview, focusing on both technical knowledge and soft skills.
Understanding HCL interview questions requires technical proficiency, problem-solving ability, and effective communication. A strong foundation in concepts like Java, algorithms, and system design is key.
Be prepared to connect theory to real-world applications, such as machine learning and cloud computing, to demonstrate your ability to solve problems effectively.
Here are concise tips to guide your preparation.
Also Read: 55 Computer Science Interview Questions And Answers [For Freshers & Experienced]
The HCL Interview Questions and Answers highlighted here emphasize key technical domains like core programming, system design, and emerging technologies. Expertise on concepts such as Java, data structures, and cloud computing is crucial for excelling in HCL's rigorous interview process.
To stand out, focus on improving problem-solving techniques, technical expertise, and communication skills to convey complex ideas effectively and concisely during the interview.
For further advancement in your career, upGrad’s additional courses in machine learning and cloud computing can help you enhance your skills.
Curious which courses can help you excel in HCL interview sessions? Contact upGrad for personalized counseling and valuable insights into advanced technologies. For more details, you can also visit your nearest upGrad offline center.
Enhance your expertise with our Popular MBA Courses. Explore the programs below to find your ideal fit.
Expand your knowledge with our Popular Articles Related to MBA. Browse the programs below to discover your ideal match.
Reference:
https://www.nucamp.co/blog/coding-bootcamp-india-ind-getting-a-job-in-tech-in-india-in-2025-the-complete-guide
Focus on learning Java, data structures, and algorithms. Solve coding challenges on platforms like LeetCode, HackerRank, and CodeSignal. Understand time complexity and space complexity for optimizing solutions. Review HCL-specific technologies and interview experiences to anticipate expected questions.
Expect questions on arrays, linked lists, stacks, queues, trees, and graphs. These form the foundation of many algorithmic problems. Understand the operations and use cases for each data structure. Practice problems on dynamic programming and recursion to strengthen your skills.
Algorithms demonstrate your problem-solving ability and efficiency. Be prepared to implement sorting, searching, and graph algorithms under time constraints. Focus on understanding time complexity and space complexity to optimize solutions. The ability to break down complex problems is highly valued in technical interviews.
System design assesses your ability to create scalable and efficient systems. Focus on designing components like databases, load balancing, and caching. Study distributed systems and concepts like microservices and event-driven architecture. Be ready to justify your design choices and their impact on performance.
Cloud computing is integral to modern enterprise applications, especially with AWS and Azure. Understand the concepts of scalability, resource management, and cost optimization. Be ready to design cloud-based architectures for high-availability systems. Familiarity with cloud security best practices is also highly beneficial.
The volatile keyword ensures that changes to a variable are visible to all threads. It prevents local thread caching, ensuring data consistency. In multithreaded applications, it prevents issues like stale data and race conditions. Understanding thread safety and synchronization concepts is critical in concurrent programming scenarios.
Solve problems step by step, starting with a brute force solution. Then, optimize the solution by reducing complexity and explaining each step. Discuss edge cases and test cases to ensure robustness. Communicate your thought process clearly and logically to showcase your problem-solving approach.
Method overloading allows multiple methods with the same name but different parameters, providing flexibility at compile-time. Method overriding allows a subclass to modify a superclass method’s behavior at runtime, enabling dynamic method dispatch. Both are key to implementing polymorphism in Java. Overloading improves flexibility, while overriding allows method customization.
Read the problem carefully, identifying key requirements and constraints. Break the problem into smaller, manageable tasks and structure your solution. Explain your reasoning step by step to show clarity in thought. Focus on trade-offs, scalability, and performance optimization when presenting your solution.
The HR round evaluates your interpersonal skills and alignment with HCL’s values. Be ready to discuss your past experiences, achievements, and teamwork skills. Showcase your enthusiasm for the company and your career goals. Emphasize your communication abilities and adaptability to different work environments.
Understand core machine learning concepts such as supervised and unsupervised learning, regression, and classification algorithms. Be familiar with common machine learning libraries like TensorFlow and scikit-learn for implementation. Be prepared to explain algorithms, model evaluation, and hyperparameter tuning. Showcase real-world use cases where machine learning provides value to business problems.
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