Top 90 C# Interview Questions for 2025 For Freshers & Experienced
By Mukesh Kumar
Updated on Apr 08, 2025 | 56 min read | 1.4k views
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By Mukesh Kumar
Updated on Apr 08, 2025 | 56 min read | 1.4k views
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Table of Contents
Did you know? The latest version of the C# programming language, C# 13, released in late 2024, brings exciting updates like enhanced locking mechanisms for better concurrency and the params collection feature for simpler method signatures. |
The Top 90 C# Interview Questions for 2025 covers key areas that employers prioritize when hiring C# developers. It includes core topics like memory management, object-oriented programming, async/await, LINQ, and dependency injection to assess your problem-solving abilities and coding efficiency.
This blog offers a focused set of C# interview questions, blending theoretical knowledge with practical application to help you tackle challenging interview scenarios with confidence.
As a fresher preparing for C# interviews, it's essential to understand the core concepts of the language. Below are some of the key questions you may encounter in C# interview questions for freshers.
C# is a powerful, versatile language that offers unique features compared to others like Java, Python, and C++. The key features that set C# apart include:
These features make C# an attractive option for both small and enterprise-level projects.
Also Read: Java vs C#: Differences ,Similarities, Features, And Advantages
Memory management is a crucial aspect of programming. In C#, memory is managed automatically by the .NET runtime using garbage collection (GC). The garbage collector handles memory allocation and deallocation. Here’s how it works:
In C#, the programmer does not need to manually free memory, reducing the likelihood of memory leaks.
The static keyword is used to define class-level members that can be accessed without creating an instance of the class. Here are the main points:
class Example
{
public static int Count = 0; // static variable
static void Main()
{
// Display the value of the static variable Count
Console.WriteLine(Count);
}
}
class Program
{
static void Main(string[] args)
{
Example.Display(); // Calling the static method
}
}
Output:
The static keyword reduces memory overhead by allowing direct access to class members.
In C#, both structs and classes are used to define data types, but there are key differences between them:
Aspect |
Struct |
Class |
Type | Value type | Reference type |
Memory Allocation | Stored on the stack | Stored on the heap |
Inheritance | Does not support inheritance | Supports inheritance and can be extended |
Default Constructor | Cannot have an explicit parameterless constructor | Can have constructors, including parameterless ones |
Default Value | Initialized to default values (e.g., 0, null) | Initialized as a reference to null |
Performance | Faster for small data as it's allocated on the stack | Slower for large data due to heap allocation |
Garbage Collection | Not managed by garbage collection | Managed by garbage collection |
Copying | Copies the data directly (deep copy) | Copies the reference (shallow copy) |
Understanding these differences is vital for optimizing performance and memory usage.
Also Read: Exploring Stack vs Heap: Decoding Memory Management
Both method overriding and method overloading allow methods to behave differently, but they work in distinct ways:
Example:
Example example = new Example();
example.Display(5); // Calls the method with an int parameter
example.Display("Hello"); // Calls the method with a string parameter
Output:
5
Hello
Example:
class Animal
{
public virtual void Speak() { Console.WriteLine("Animal speaks"); }
}
class Dog : Animal
{
public override void Speak() { Console.WriteLine("Dog barks"); }
}
Output:
Dog barks
Method overloading is based on method signatures, while overriding is based on runtime polymorphism.
Also Read: Difference Between Overloading and Overriding in Java
In C#, the async and await keywords are central to implementing asynchronous programming, which allows for non-blocking code execution. These keywords are particularly useful when handling long-running operations such as file I/O, web requests, and database queries. By using async and await, you can improve the responsiveness of applications, particularly in scenarios involving I/O-bound tasks.
public async Task<int> GetDataAsync()
{
await Task.Delay(1000); // Simulate an async operation
return 42;
}
Output: After 1 Second the output will be
42
Example:
var result = await GetDataAsync();
Together, async and await enable non-blocking execution. While async allows a method to run asynchronously, await ensures that the method waits for the completion of a task without blocking the executing thread. This is particularly advantageous in applications dealing with I/O-bound operations, where waiting for responses (e.g., file reads, web API calls) is common.
While these keywords are widely known for improving I/O-bound tasks (such as network operations or file I/O), they can also be beneficial for CPU-bound tasks when used appropriately. For CPU-bound operations, async and await help by allowing tasks to run concurrently on different threads, ensuring that other operations can continue executing without being held up by one lengthy operation.
This leads to a more efficient use of system resources, better responsiveness, and an overall smoother user experience.
Error handling in C# is crucial for managing runtime exceptions. The try-catch blocks allow you to catch exceptions and handle them gracefully.
Example:
try
{
int result = 10 / 0;
}
catch (DivideByZeroException ex)
{
Console.WriteLine("Error: " + ex.Message);
}
Output:
Error: Division by zero.
This approach ensures that your program can recover from unexpected errors without crashing.
Also Read: Top 32 Exception Handling Interview Questions and Answers [2025]
Access modifiers determine the visibility and accessibility of members (methods, fields, etc.) within classes. Here's a breakdown:
Choosing the right access modifier helps in encapsulating data and controlling how your code interacts with other parts of the system.
C# is fundamentally object-oriented as it supports the four main principles of OOP. It allows developers to use classes and objects to structure programs.
Example:
class Program
{
static void Main(string[] args)
{
Car myCar = new Car();
myCar.Model = "Tesla"; // Setting the Model
Console.WriteLine(myCar.Model); // Getting and printing the Model
}
}
Output:
Tesla
Example:
class Program
{
static void Main()
{
Dog myDog = new Dog();
myDog.Eat(); // Inherited from Animal
myDog.Bark(); // Defined in Dog
}
}
Output:
Eating...
Barking...
Example:
class Program
{
static void Main()
{
Animal myAnimal = new Dog();
myAnimal.MakeSound(); // This will call Dog's overridden method
}
}
Output:
Bark!
Example:
abstract class Shape
{
public abstract void Draw();
}
class Circle : Shape
{
public override void Draw() { Console.WriteLine("Drawing Circle"); }
}
class Program
{
static void Main(string[] args)
{
Shape shape = new Circle(); // Create an instance of Circle
shape.Draw(); // Call the Draw method
}
}
Output:
Drawing Circle
The using directive in C# serves to simplify the code by allowing access to namespaces without needing to fully qualify their names. It makes the code cleaner and more readable by reducing repetition.
Example:
using System;
class Example
{
public void Display() { Console.WriteLine("Using directive example"); }
}
class Program
{
static void Main()
{
Example example = new Example();
example.Display(); // This will call the Display method
}
}
Output:
Using directive example
Example:
using (var stream = new FileStream("file.txt", FileMode.Open))
{
// Read file content
} // stream will be disposed automatically
In C#, boxing and unboxing refer to the conversion between value types and reference types.
Example:
int x = 10;
object obj = x; // Boxing
Example:
object obj = 10;
int x = (int)obj; // Unboxing
Boxing incurs performance overhead because it involves copying the value from the stack to the heap. Unboxing can throw an InvalidCastException if the types do not match.
C# provides both Arrays and List for storing collections of data, but they have distinct characteristics:
Example:
int[] arr = new int[5];
arr[0] = 10;
Example:
List<int> list = new List<int>();
list.Add(10);
list.Add(20);
Language Integrated Query (LINQ) in C# enables querying collections (like arrays, lists, and databases) using a unified syntax. It simplifies data manipulation, reducing code complexity.
LINQ to Objects:
LINQ to Objects is used for querying in-memory collections such as arrays or lists.
Example:
List<int> numbers = new List<int> { 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 };
var evenNumbers = from n in numbers
where n % 2 == 0
select n;
Output:
2
4
Best Practices:
LINQ to Entity Framework (EF):
LINQ can query databases via Entity Framework (EF), which is now the recommended approach for working with databases. EF translates LINQ queries into SQL and allows you to interact with databases as strongly-typed objects.
Example:
var students = from s in dbContext.Students
where s.Age > 18
select s;
Output:
The output will be a collection of Student objects (or records from the Students table) where each student's age is greater than 18.
Best Practices:
Key Differences:
LINQ simplifies querying, ensuring cleaner code and better performance when used with best practices.
An interface in C# defines a contract that classes must fulfill. It contains method signatures, properties, or events but no concrete implementation.
Example:
public interface IOperations
{
void Start();
void Stop();
}
A delegate is a type that references methods with a particular parameter list and return type. It acts like a pointer to a function.
Example:
public delegate void Notify(string message);
Understanding parameter passing is a fundamental part of C# basic interview questions. This helps you handle data updates inside methods.
Below are the major differences, supported by real-world illustrations.
Example:
public void ProcessData(ref int existingValue, out int newValue)
{
existingValue += 10; // must be initialized beforehand
newValue = 42; // assigned inside the method
}
Scenarios like passing hardware configuration data or game-engine stats often rely on ref or out to manage and update multiple state variables without extra overhead.
Here's a table summarizing the differences between String and StringBuilder in C#:
Aspect |
String |
StringBuilder |
Mutability | Immutable – every modification creates a new object. | Mutable – allows in-place modifications. |
Performance | Best for small, infrequent text manipulations. | Ideal for frequent, large-scale text manipulations. |
Memory Usage | Higher memory usage for frequent changes due to new objects being created. | More efficient memory usage as modifications happen in place. |
Usage Scenario | Suitable for small, static text data. | Suitable for dynamic or large text processing, such as logs or reports. |
Example Code | string str = "Hello"; str += " World"; | StringBuilder sb = new StringBuilder(); sb.Append("Hello"); sb.Append(" World"); |
Performance Considerations | Costly in terms of performance when dealing with large or frequent changes. | More efficient for scenarios like building long messages, reports, or working with large datasets. |
Here’s a table to illustrate how C# handles multiple inheritance through interfaces:
Aspect |
Class Inheritance |
Interface Inheritance |
Support for Multiple Inheritance | Not supported (a class can inherit from only one base class) | Supported (a class can implement multiple interfaces) |
Purpose | To inherit behavior and state from a single base class | To inherit behavior from multiple interfaces, enabling flexible composition of functionality |
Ambiguity | Can lead to ambiguity if multiple base classes define the same method | No ambiguity, as interfaces don’t define implementation, only the contract |
Syntax | class DerivedClass : BaseClass { } | class DerivedClass : IInterface1, IInterface2 { } |
State Inheritance | Inherits both state (fields/properties) and behavior (methods) from the base class | No state inheritance; only method signatures are inherited |
Use Case | Typically used to create a more specific version of a general class | Used to mix multiple behaviors (e.g., reading, writing) into a single class without restricting it to a single base class |
Example of Multiple Interface Implementation:
using System;
interface IReadable
{
void Read();
}
interface IWritable
{
void Write(string data);
}
class FileManager : IReadable, IWritable
{
public void Read()
{
Console.WriteLine("Reading from the file...");
}
public void Write(string data)
{
Console.WriteLine($"Writing data to the file: {data}");
}
}
class Program
{
static void Main(string[] args)
{
// Creating an instance of FileManager
FileManager fileManager = new FileManager();
// Calling the Read method
fileManager.Read();
// Calling the Write method
fileManager.Write("Hello, World!");
}
}
Output:
Reading from the file...
Writing data to the file: Hello, World!
The sealed keyword in C# is used to prevent a class from being inherited. When a class is declared as sealed, no other class can derive from it, effectively locking its design.
public sealed class FinalClass
{
// Implementation
}
Key Use Cases:
Sealed classes are particularly useful in frameworks or libraries where allowing further inheritance could introduce errors or unintended behavior.
C# uses the async and await keywords to write asynchronous code that looks similar to synchronous code. The Task or Task<T> return type represents an ongoing operation.
Example:
public async Task FetchDataAsync()
{
// Simulate a delay for a network call
await Task.Delay(1000);
// Continue after the delay
}
Output:
After the 1-second delay, the method resumes execution and completes.
Generics let you define classes, methods, and structures with placeholders for types. This eliminates the need for boxing and unboxing, thus improving efficiency.
Example:
using System;
public class GenericContainer<T>
{
private T _value;
public void Add(T item) { _value = item; }
public T Get() { return _value; }
}
class Program
{
static void Main()
{
// Create a container for an integer
GenericContainer<int> intContainer = new GenericContainer<int>();
intContainer.Add(42);
Console.WriteLine(intContainer.Get()); // Output: 42
// Create a container for a string
GenericContainer<string> stringContainer = new GenericContainer<string>();
stringContainer.Add("Hello, Generics!");
Console.WriteLine(stringContainer.Get()); // Output: Hello, Generics!
}
}
Output:
42
Hello, Generics!
Understanding concurrency is vital in C# basic interview questions. This often includes clarifying how tasks differ from raw threads.
Below is a table that highlights the key differences.
Aspect |
Thread |
Task |
Abstraction Level | Represents a low-level OS thread, managed directly by the OS. | A higher-level abstraction that utilizes the thread pool. |
Resource Management | Requires more manual control and responsibility. | Automatically handles scheduling, pooling, and resource management. |
Usage | Used for low-level control over concurrency. | Recommended for most modern .NET applications due to its simplicity and flexibility. |
Example Code | Thread t = new Thread(Method); t.Start(); | Task task = Task.Run(() => Method()); |
Performance Consideration | More overhead and management required. | Reduced overhead, optimized for parallelism and coordination. |
Recommendation | Typically used for complex or specialized concurrency management. | Generally preferred in modern .NET development, especially in cloud environments. |
Also Read: Thread Priority in Java: Explained with Examples
Events are central to many C# interview questions, particularly those involving user interfaces or real-time notifications. An event is a specialized delegate that follows the publisher-subscriber model, where a class acting as the publisher notifies its subscribers when something significant occurs.
This mechanism is crucial in scenarios such as GUI interactions, IoT alerts, and real-time enterprise applications, where timely updates and notifications are essential.
Example:
public class Alarm
{
public event Action OnAlarmTriggered;
public void TriggerAlarm()
{
OnAlarmTriggered?.Invoke();
}
}
class Program
{
static void Main(string[] args)
{
Alarm alarm = new Alarm();
// Subscribe to the event
alarm.OnAlarmTriggered += () => Console.WriteLine("Alarm triggered!");
// Trigger the alarm
alarm.TriggerAlarm();
}
}
Output:
Alarm triggered!
Fields marked readonly can only be assigned during declaration or in a constructor. They cannot be modified afterward.
public readonly int ID = 100;
Keep reading for more C# interview questions that target your understanding of immutability and secure coding.
Polymorphism is crucial in C# basic interview questions because it enables you to write flexible and maintainable code.
Below are concise points to help you connect theory with practice.
1. Compile-Time Polymorphism (Overloading)
You achieve this by defining multiple methods with the same name but different signatures.
public void Print(int number) { /* ... */ }
public void Print(string text) { /* ... */ }
2. Runtime Polymorphism (Overriding)
You achieve this using virtual and override.
public virtual void Execute() { /* ... */ }
public override void Execute() { /* ... */ }
Polymorphism is widely used in game development (e.g., various NPC types sharing a single interface) and advanced analytics platforms (various data processors sharing a unified processing method).
Handling concurrency is often discussed in C# interview questions for freshers, especially when aiming to build efficient and scalable systems.
Below are significant aspects, along with challenges you might encounter.
A good understanding in fundamental questions, often highlighted in c# interview questions for freshers.
Example:
using System;
public class BaseClass
{
// Virtual method that can be overridden in derived classes
public virtual void Display()
{
Console.WriteLine("Base display");
}
// Static method that can't be overridden, but can be called from derived class
public static void Show()
{
Console.WriteLine("Static show");
}
}
public class DerivedClass : BaseClass
{
// Override the Display method
public override void Display()
{
Console.WriteLine("Derived display");
}
}
class Program
{
static void Main()
{
// Create an instance of the base class and call its methods
BaseClass baseObj = new BaseClass();
baseObj.Display(); // Will print: "Base display"
BaseClass.Show(); // Will print: "Static show"
// Create an instance of the derived class and call its methods
BaseClass derivedObj = new DerivedClass();
derivedObj.Display(); // Will print: "Derived display" (method overriding)
BaseClass.Show(); // Will print: "Static show" (static method can't be overridden)
}
}
Output:
Base display
Static show
Derived display
Static show
A tuple is a finite ordered list of elements. It allows you to return multiple values from a method without creating a separate class or struct.
Example:
(int age, string name) personInfo = (25, "Alice");
Console.WriteLine(personInfo.age);
// Output: 25
Use Cases
Tuples are especially useful in functional-style programming or quick prototypes, which can be common in modern app development where speed and agility are paramount.
Data structures often pop up in C# interview questions. Here is the table summarizing the key differences between Hashtable and Dictionary in C#:
Feature |
Hashtable |
Dictionary<TKey, TValue> |
Generics Support | Stores key-value pairs as objects, not type-safe. | Generic, providing compile-time type checking. |
Performance | Slight overhead due to boxing/unboxing. | Generally faster due to type safety and no boxing. |
Usage Trends | Older collections, rarely used in modern C#. | The go-to solution for key-value data in contemporary projects. |
Practical Example | Not type-safe, so less ideal for type-sensitive applications. | More efficient and type-safe, e.g., Dictionary<int, float> for storing sensor readings. |
Building robust applications often requires handling specific errors in a tailored way. Custom exceptions provide a way to handle error conditions that aren't adequately captured by standard exceptions. This is an essential topic in many C# interview questions, especially for freshers who are looking to understand best practices in error handling.
Creating Custom Exceptions
To create a custom exception in C#, you generally follow these steps:
1. Derive from the Exception class: All custom exceptions must derive from the base Exception class. You can do this by either directly inheriting from Exception or from any of its other derived classes (e.g., ApplicationException).
using System;
public class InvalidOrderException : Exception
{
// Constructor accepting a message
public InvalidOrderException(string message)
: base(message)
{
}
// Constructor accepting a message and an inner exception
public InvalidOrderException(string message, Exception innerException)
: base(message, innerException)
{
}
// Optional: Add a default constructor if needed
public InvalidOrderException()
: base("An invalid order was detected.")
{
}
}
Output:
try
{
// Throwing the custom exception with a message
throw new InvalidOrderException("Order ID is missing");
}
catch (InvalidOrderException ex)
{
Console.WriteLine(ex.Message); // Output: Order ID is missing
}
try
{
// Throwing the custom exception with a message and an inner exception
Exception innerException = new InvalidOperationException("The order amount is invalid");
throw new InvalidOrderException("Invalid order detected", innerException);
}
catch (InvalidOrderException ex)
{
Console.WriteLine(ex.Message); // Output: Invalid order detected
Console.WriteLine(ex.InnerException.Message); // Output: The order amount is invalid
}
2. Adding Custom Fields: You can enhance your custom exception by adding custom properties or fields. These can store additional information related to the error, such as error codes, timestamps, or specific business logic-related details.
public class InvalidOrderException : Exception
{
public int ErrorCode { get; set; }
public DateTime Timestamp { get; set; }
public InvalidOrderException(string message, int errorCode)
: base(message)
{
ErrorCode = errorCode;
Timestamp = DateTime.Now;
}
}
Sample Output (depends on when the exception is thrown)
Error Message: Invalid order placed.
Error Code: 404
Timestamp: 4/3/2025 10:15:30 AM (this will be the current date and time when the exception is thrown)
3. Throwing Custom Exceptions: You can now throw your custom exception when specific conditions in your code are met.
if (order == null)
{
throw new InvalidOrderException("Order is null", 1001);
}
4. Catching Custom Exceptions: Once custom exceptions are thrown, they can be caught like any standard exception using try-catch blocks.
using System;
public class InvalidOrderException : Exception
{
public int ErrorCode { get; }
public DateTime Timestamp { get; }
// Constructor accepting a message and error code
public InvalidOrderException(string message, int errorCode)
: base(message)
{
ErrorCode = errorCode;
Timestamp = DateTime.Now;
}
// Constructor accepting a message, error code, and an inner exception
public InvalidOrderException(string message, int errorCode, Exception innerException)
: base(message, innerException)
{
ErrorCode = errorCode;
Timestamp = DateTime.Now;
}
// Optional: Add a default constructor
public InvalidOrderException()
: base("An invalid order was detected.")
{
ErrorCode = 0;
Timestamp = DateTime.Now;
}
}
Code to handle the exception
try
{
// Simulating code that might throw the custom exception
ProcessOrder("Invalid Order");
}
catch (InvalidOrderException ex)
{
// Handle the exception
Console.WriteLine($"Error: {ex.Message}, Code: {ex.ErrorCode}, Time: {ex.Timestamp}");
}
Output:
Error: Invalid order detected, Code: 1001, Time: 4/3/2025 10:35:22 AM
Null reference issues commonly appear in C# basic interview questions because they can lead to exceptions at runtime. Null propagation uses the ?. operator to safely access members of an object that might be null.
Example:
Person person = null;
int? age = person?.Age;
You might encounter a variety of C# interview questions for freshers. These usually cover fundamental topics, language constructs, and practical coding scenarios. By now, you have reviewed many of these concepts in depth. The basic questions often include:
Below are some of them, accompanied by brief illustrations.
These C# basic interview questions lay the groundwork for more advanced queries about performance optimization and large-scale architecture.
In C#, Memory Management is largely handled by the Garbage Collector (GC), which automatically reclaims memory for unused objects. Here's a breakdown of how it works:
1. Garbage Collection Generations:
C# uses generational garbage collection, which categorizes objects into three generations (0, 1, and 2) based on their lifespan:
Older generations (1 and 2) are only collected during full GC to optimize performance. Objects that survive multiple collections are promoted to higher generations, reducing their collection frequency.
While GC is automatic, you can trigger it manually with GC.Collect(), though it’s generally not recommended unless necessary.
2. Large Object Heap (LOH):
3. Fragmentation Management:
4. Weak References:
5. High-Throughput Systems:
6. Monitoring & Optimization:
This question appears in countless C# interview questions. Here’s a table that summarizes the key differences between Abstract Classes and Interfaces in C#:
Feature |
Abstract Class |
Interface |
Instantiation | Cannot be instantiated directly. | Cannot be instantiated; must be implemented by a class. |
Flexibility | Can have constructors, fields, and access modifiers. | Focuses purely on method signatures (plus optional default implementations in newer C# versions). |
Practical Adoption | Choose when there’s a shared base with partial logic. | Choose when diverse classes need the same capability but do not share a common ancestor. |
Use Case | Shared functionalities with partial implementation. | Pluggable behaviors across different classes with no common base. |
Having discussed entry-level concepts, let’s look at C# interview questions for those with more experience.
C# shapes many complex systems and innovative software solutions. These C# advanced interview questions will guide you through core concepts, best practices, and modern developments that are relevant for 2025 and beyond.
Here's a concise explanation of the differences between ArrayList and List in C#:
Feature |
ArrayList |
List |
Type Handling | Stores items as object, allowing any type but requires boxing/unboxing. | Strongly typed, stores elements of a specific type. |
Type Safety | Lacks compile-time type checking, can lead to runtime errors (e.g., InvalidCastException). | Ensures compile-time type checking, preventing mismatched types. |
Performance | Performance can degrade due to boxing and unboxing. | Generally faster due to type safety and no boxing overhead. |
Use Case | Older .NET code, where type flexibility is needed. | Preferred in modern code for better performance and type safety. |
Concurrency management in C# is essential for building efficient, responsive applications, especially as modern systems demand parallel operations. Key tools like async/await, the Task Parallel Library (TPL), and synchronization primitives such as lock, Mutex, and Semaphore provide developers with the ability to control thread execution and data integrity.
For practical applications, locks can be used to control access to shared resources. For instance, locking a shared dictionary before reading or modifying it ensures that only one thread interacts with the resource at any given time, preventing race conditions.
On the other hand, concurrent collections like ConcurrentDictionary allow thread-safe operations without needing explicit locks. This is ideal for systems with high throughput, where performance and scalability are key.
In C#, the async and await keywords enable non-blocking I/O operations, freeing up the calling thread while tasks like data fetching or file I/O are processed in the background. This improves the responsiveness of applications, especially in environments where I/O operations can be time-consuming, such as web and mobile apps.
By marking a method as async, you allow asynchronous execution, and using await pauses the method’s execution until the asynchronous operation completes. This keeps the application responsive, ensuring the UI remains fluid without locking up during lengthy operations.
For example, consider this snippet:
await httpClient.GetStringAsync(url);
The line fetches data from a URL asynchronously, preventing the UI from freezing while waiting for the response.
Dependency Injection (DI) is a design pattern that decouples class dependencies by providing them from an external source, rather than creating them inside the class itself. This approach enhances modularity, improves testability, and makes configurations more flexible.
Here’s why DI is essential:
Reflection in C# enables you to inspect and manipulate types at runtime. It allows for discovering assemblies, types, methods, and properties, and even invoking members dynamically. This powerful feature is widely used in modern frameworks, especially for dynamic API generation, automation, and plugin systems.
Reflection is commonly utilized in applications that need to load plugins or call methods from external assemblies at runtime, offering flexibility in extensible application design. However, it can be slower than direct method calls, so it’s recommended to use it when flexibility outweighs performance needs.
The Singleton Design Pattern ensures that a class has only one instance throughout the application’s lifecycle. This pattern is commonly used for managing global states, such as configuration settings.
To implement a Singleton in C#, the constructor is made private, and a static property exposes the single instance.
class Program
{
static void Main()
{
// Accessing the single instance of MySingleton
MySingleton instance1 = MySingleton.Instance;
MySingleton instance2 = MySingleton.Instance;
// Both references point to the same instance
Console.WriteLine(object.ReferenceEquals(instance1, instance2)); // Output: True
}
}
In this implementation:
Thread-Safety: This approach is thread-safe by default, thanks to C#’s static constructor initialization. For additional control in multi-threaded scenarios, double-checked locking can be used to ensure that the instance is only created once.
This pattern is frequently asked in C# OOP interview questions, as it demonstrates an understanding of design patterns, object creation, and thread-safety in real-world applications.
The factory pattern abstracts object creation, allowing you to instantiate objects without knowing their specific construction details. This is particularly useful in scenarios where objects require complex setups or come in different variants. Commonly applied in industries like gaming or e-commerce, the factory pattern allows for dynamic product creation.
You can start by defining an IProduct interface, followed by concrete classes like ProductA and ProductB. A ProductFactory class would have a CreateProduct method, which returns an IProduct.
This approach supports scalability—when new product variations are needed, you simply add new classes and extend the factory logic, minimizing changes to existing code.
Here’s a table summarizing the key differences between a shallow copy and a deep copy in C#:
Aspect |
Shallow Copy |
Deep Copy |
Definition | Copies the top-level object but references nested objects. | Copies the entire object graph, including all nested objects. |
Memory References | Nested objects point to the same memory locations as the original. | Nested objects are copied into new memory locations, independent of the original. |
Method Used | MemberwiseClone() | Manual cloning, serialization, or custom deep copy logic. |
Impact on Nested Objects | Nested objects are not duplicated; changes affect both copies. | All nested objects are fully duplicated, so changes do not affect the original. |
Usage Example | Simple objects or when nested data should be shared. | Complex objects or when full independence between copies is required. |
Performance | Generally faster due to shallow memory operations. | Slower due to the need to recursively clone objects. |
Common Applications | Temporary or non-critical uses where data isolation is not a concern. | When data isolation is crucial, such as in data-intensive systems like AI-driven finance. |
In C#, collections like List, Dictionary<TKey, TValue>, and HashSet are essential for organizing data.
For example, List works well for maintaining user profiles, Dictionary excels at managing large-scale key-based lookups like user IDs, and HashSet ensures no duplicates in a set of unique IDs.
Here's a table summarizing the differences between throw and throw ex in C# exception handling:
Aspect |
throw |
throw ex |
Stack Trace | Preserves the original stack trace. | Resets the stack trace, making it harder to debug. |
Use Case | Ideal for rethrowing an exception while maintaining the original error context. | Often used incorrectly; can obscure the root cause of the exception. |
Best Practice | Recommended for rethrowing exceptions. | Should be avoided as it loses important debugging information. |
Error Tracking | Easier to track and debug errors. | More difficult to track the error's origin. |
Performance Impact | No impact on performance. | No significant impact, but debugging suffers. |
An extension method is a static method in a static class that extends the functionality of an existing type without modifying its source code. You define an extension method by using the ‘this’ keyword before the type of the first parameter.
For instance, to extend the Person class with a method GetFullName, you can create a static class PersonExtensions with a method like:
public static void Main()
{
// Creating a new Person object
Person person = new Person
{
FirstName = "John",
LastName = "Doe"
};
// Calling the extension method GetFullName
string fullName = person.GetFullName();
// Output the full name
Console.WriteLine(fullName); // Output: John Doe
}
Extension methods make it easy to add new functionality to existing types, which is especially useful in development cycles. The methods must reside in the same namespace or be included via a using statement.
Dependency Injection (DI) is a design pattern used to manage dependencies in an application by injecting them at runtime rather than hardcoding them. It improves code flexibility, maintainability, and testability. In C#, DI can be implemented using a DI container such as Microsoft.Extensions.DependencyInjection or third-party libraries like Autofac and StructureMap.
Advanced DI Techniques:
Dependency Lifetime Types:
A try-finally block guarantees that the code in the finally block always executes, even if an exception is thrown within the try block. It is primarily used for resource cleanup (e.g., closing files or releasing database connections).
Example:
Even in asynchronous environments, the finally block is still valuable for cleanup. Alternatively, you can use the using statement or await using for simpler resource management.
A partial class allows a class to be split across multiple files. It provides a way to organize large classes into smaller, logical segments, improving readability and maintainability.
Key Benefits:
This technique is commonly used in enterprise solutions to handle large auto-generated code files.
Objects larger than 85,000 bytes are allocated on the Large Object Heap (LOH). The LOH reduces fragmentation for large allocations but comes with some performance considerations, as garbage collection for large objects is more expensive.
Optimization Tips:
A multicast delegate can hold references to multiple methods and call each of them in its invocation list when invoked. This feature is useful for event handling and scenarios where multiple methods need to react to the same event.
Important Points:
The override keyword allows a derived class to modify or extend the behavior of a method, property, or indexer from a base class marked as virtual or abstract. It is central to polymorphism in C# and enables customization of inherited members.
For example, when a method is marked as virtual in the base class, you can override it in the subclass to change its functionality:
public override void DoWork()
{
// New definition in derived class
}
Similarly, abstract methods in abstract classes must be overridden, ensuring that derived classes provide their own implementation.
C# uses a generational garbage collector that organizes objects into generations based on their lifetimes. You can influence garbage collection using GC.Collect(), though it’s generally discouraged unless absolutely necessary for performance optimization. For specialized scenarios, like real-time applications or containerized environments, you can configure GC settings in project files or environment variables.
A const is a compile-time constant, while a readonly field is assigned at runtime, either in the constructor or field initializer. const values are replaced with literals during compilation, whereas readonly values can be set only once and retain their integrity throughout the application’s lifetime.
For instance:
const double Pi = 3.14159; // Compile-time constant
readonly int instanceId; // Runtime value
readonly is ideal for values that are set once at runtime but need to remain constant afterward
C# provides built-in thread-safe collections like ConcurrentDictionary, ConcurrentQueue, and ConcurrentBag from the System.Collections.Concurrent namespace. These collections allow concurrent reads and writes, which is crucial for multi-threaded applications. Alternatively, you can implement custom synchronization mechanisms using locks around standard collections.
For example, a ConcurrentDictionary is ideal for scenarios requiring high throughput and concurrency, such as real-time data processing or distributed applications.
Anonymous methods allow you to define inline method bodies without a name. They are less concise than lambda expressions, which offer a more readable and flexible syntax. Both serve the purpose of creating inline code for event handling or callbacks.
For instance:
// Anonymous Method
button.Click += delegate { Console.WriteLine("Clicked!"); };
// Lambda Expression
button.Click += (sender, e) => Console.WriteLine("Clicked!");
While anonymous methods still appear in older codebases, lambda expressions are more commonly used in modern development due to their succinctness.
Thread pooling in C# is a technique that allows the reuse of worker threads from the ThreadPool rather than creating new threads for each individual task. This reduces the overhead associated with thread creation, leading to better performance and resource utilization, particularly in scenarios with high concurrency, such as web servers or cloud-based applications.
For example, you can queue tasks to the thread pool using:
ThreadPool.QueueUserWorkItem(DoWork);
While ThreadPool provides low-level access to thread management, the Task Parallel Library (TPL) abstracts thread pool management, making it easier for developers to handle tasks. With TPL, you don't need to manually manage threads or worry about the underlying details of thread pooling.
Example with TPL:
Task.Run(() => DoWork());
The TPL automatically uses the thread pool for task execution, simplifying the threading process by handling synchronization and thread management for you. This not only makes the code more readable but also ensures that thread usage is optimized without manual intervention.
Also Read: Multithreading in Python [With Coding Examples]
Reflection enables type inspection, dynamic code generation, and runtime analysis of attributes. It is often used for advanced scenarios like dynamic proxy creation or generating code during runtime with Reflection.Emit.
Example:
Type type = typeof(MyClass);
PropertyInfo prop = type.GetProperty("MyProperty");
Reflection is crucial for frameworks that automate tasks like dependency injection or entity mapping.
The dynamic type defers type checking until runtime, while var infers the type at compile time. dynamic is useful when working with dynamic languages or interop with COM objects, while var maintains compile-time type safety.
Example:
dynamic obj = GetDynamicObject();
var number = 10; // Infers type as int
dynamic can introduce runtime errors if a member doesn’t exist, whereas var ensures type safety at compile time.
In C#, you can use the is keyword or pattern matching to check an object's type at runtime. Pattern matching simplifies this by automatically casting the object if the check succeeds, making your code cleaner.
Example:
if (obj is MyClass myObj)
{
// myObj is now cast to MyClass
}
You can also use typeof to obtain a Type object for comparison or dynamic object creation.
C# handles null references by throwing a NullReferenceException when attempting to access members of a null object. The null-conditional operator (?.) and the null-coalescing operator (??) help prevent these exceptions. Nullable reference types, introduced in C# 8.0, provide compile-time checks to avoid null errors.
Example:
person?.Address?.City; // Safely returns null if any part is null
Nullable reference types enhance safety by notifying developers of potential null dereference issues during compilation.
Delegates define method signatures and are used in event handling to notify subscribers when an event occurs. This is crucial in building event-driven architectures for GUIs, services, and IoT systems.
Example:
public delegate void MyEventHandler();
public event MyEventHandler SomethingHappened;
Delegates enable flexible and decoupled communication between components.
yield return generates an iterator without loading an entire collection into memory. This is ideal for scenarios where you need to process large datasets or streams efficiently, such as in data pipelines.
Example:
foreach (var item in GetItems())
{
yield return item;
}
It saves memory by returning elements one at a time, making it ideal for large-scale data processing.
Here’s a detailed table comparing IEnumerable and IQueryable in C#:
Feature |
IEnumerable |
IQueryable |
Execution Location | Executes in memory, typically used for in-memory collections. | Executes out-of-memory, typically used for querying databases or other data sources. |
Execution Type | Immediate execution (queries are executed as soon as they are created). | Deferred execution (queries are executed only when iterated or materialized). |
Performance | Not optimized for large data sets; works best for in-memory data. | More optimized for large data sets, especially for remote or database queries. |
Data Source | Works with in-memory collections (e.g., List, arrays). | Works with out-of-memory collections, like databases or external services. |
Query Translation | Queries are executed in-memory and not translated to SQL. | LINQ queries can be translated to SQL for database queries, allowing for better performance. |
Best Use Case | Ideal for working with in-memory collections where performance is not a concern. | Ideal for querying databases or remote data sources where performance and scalability matter. |
LINQ to SQL Support | Does not support direct translation to SQL. | Supports translating LINQ queries to SQL, enabling efficient database queries. |
Example Code | IEnumerable<int> numbers = GetNumbers(); | IQueryable<int> query = dbContext.Numbers.Where(n => n > 5); |
Deferred Execution | No (queries are executed immediately). | Yes (queries are not executed until iteration occurs). |
To prevent method overriding in derived classes, mark the method as sealed. This ensures that the method’s implementation remains fixed and cannot be modified further.
Example:
public sealed override void DoWork()
{
// Fixed implementation
}
Sealing methods are useful for security or performance reasons, ensuring that critical behavior cannot be altered.
Now, let's dive into some of the most commonly asked coding questions in C# interviews.
C# coding interview questions are a staple when you are preparing for technical roles. You might also encounter c# tricky interview questions that test deep language features and best practices. Additionally, many recruiters will check your knowledge with c# dot net interview questions to ensure your mastery of modern .NET trends.
Extension methods enable you to add functionality to existing classes without altering their source code. This is especially useful for enhancing third-party libraries or sealed classes.
How to implement:
Example:
class Program
{
static void Main()
{
string str1 = "madam";
string str2 = "hello";
string str3 = "A man a plan a canal Panama";
string str4 = " ";
Console.WriteLine(str1.IsPalindrome()); // Output: True
Console.WriteLine(str2.IsPalindrome()); // Output: False
Console.WriteLine(str3.IsPalindrome()); // Output: True
Console.WriteLine(str4.IsPalindrome()); // Output: False
}
}
Once declared, you can call IsPalindrome() on any string instance, extending its functionality without modifying the string class itself.
Creating threads is essential for parallelism and performance in C#. Here's how to do it:
Example:
Thread myThread = new Thread(() =>
{
Console.WriteLine("Thread is running.");
});
myThread.Start();
Output:
Thread is running.
Threads are useful in CPU-bound tasks, like real-time analytics or image processing, and enhance the responsiveness of your application.
Also Read: Life Cycle of Thread in Java
Thread synchronization prevents multiple threads from accessing shared resources at the same time, ensuring data integrity.
Methods for synchronization: Use the lock keyword to enforce exclusive access.
private static object _lockObj = new object();
lock (_lockObj)
{
// Critical section
}
These synchronization techniques ensure safe, concurrent operations in multi-threaded applications.
The volatile keyword ensures that a field’s value is always read from the main memory, not cached by the CPU, which is crucial in multi-threaded environments.
Example:
public volatile bool _isActive;
This ensures that each thread sees the most up-to-date value of _isActive.
C# relies on a garbage collector (GC) to manage memory. However, leaks can still occur if you retain references unnecessarily.
To avoid memory leaks: Implement IDisposable or use using statements to automatically release unmanaged resources.
using (SqlConnection conn = new SqlConnection("..."))
{
// Use the connection
}
The is keyword checks if an object is of a specific type, simplifying type casting. It's crucial for pattern matching in newer C# versions.
Example:
object item = "Hello";
if (item is string text)
{
Console.WriteLine(text.ToUpper());
}
// Output: Hello
is enhances type safety, especially in complex systems like microservices where data types may vary.
File I/O operations are fundamental in applications like logging or data ingestion. Here's how you handle files in C#:
Use System.IO.File class to read or write files:
string content = File.ReadAllText("data.txt");
File.WriteAllText("output.txt", content.ToUpper());
// if data.txt contains “Hello world”
// Output: HELLO WORLD
Always handle exceptions and close resources to avoid file locks.
In C#, both == and Equals() are used to compare objects, but there are key differences in how they work:
Example:
class Person
{
public string Name { get; set; }
}
Person person1 = new Person { Name = "Alice" };
Person person2 = new Person { Name = "Alice" };
Console.WriteLine(person1 == person2); // False (reference comparison)
Console.WriteLine(person1.Equals(person2)); // False (reference comparison, unless overridden)
When to use:
JSON is commonly used in APIs, IoT, and microservices. Here's how you can work with JSON in C#:
var jsonString = JsonSerializer.Serialize(myObject);
var newObject = JsonSerializer.Deserialize<MyClass>(jsonString);
A foreach loop simplifies iteration over collections, removing the need for index management.
foreach (int number in numbers)
{
Console.WriteLine(number);
}
for (int i = 0; i < numbers.Length; i++)
{
Console.WriteLine(numbers[i]);
}
Use foreach for simplicity and safety when iterating over collections.
The using statement ensures that objects implementing IDisposable are disposed of automatically, crucial for preventing resource leaks.
Example:
using (StreamWriter writer = new StreamWriter("log.txt"))
{
writer.WriteLine("Log entry");
}
This approach is essential in managing resources like database connections or file handles.
An abstract method has no implementation and must be overridden by derived classes. A virtual method provides a default implementation, which derived classes can override if needed.
1. Abstract Method:
Forces derived classes to provide an implementation.
public abstract class Shape
{
public abstract void Draw();
}
2. Virtual Method:
Provides a default implementation, which can be optionally overridden.
public class BaseLogger
{
public virtual void Log(string message) => Console.WriteLine(message);
}
In large codebases, abstract methods provide a blueprint, while virtual methods offer default behaviors.
The Observer pattern allows objects to subscribe to event notifications, making it perfect for real-time systems like stock tickers or chat apps.
1. Define a Subject (Observable):
public class Subject
{
private List<IObserver> observers = new List<IObserver>();
public void Attach(IObserver observer) => observers.Add(observer);
public void Detach(IObserver observer) => observers.Remove(observer);
public void Notify() { observers.ForEach(obs => obs.Update()); }
}
2. Observers:
Implement Update() to receive notifications.
The Observer pattern enables modular and flexible design in event-driven systems.
In enterprise applications, database connections are managed using ADO.NET, which connects to databases, executes commands, and reads results.
using (SqlConnection conn = new SqlConnection("connection_string"))
{
conn.Open();
using (SqlCommand cmd = new SqlCommand("SELECT * FROM Users", conn))
{
using (SqlDataReader reader = cmd.ExecuteReader())
{
while (reader.Read())
{
Console.WriteLine(reader["Username"]);
}
}
}
}
Use using statements to ensure proper disposal of resources.
A constructor initializes a new object's state, and constructor chaining calls another constructor within the same class to avoid code duplication.
public class Book
{
public string Title { get; set; }
public Book() : this("Untitled") { }
public Book(string title) { Title = title; }
}
Constructor chaining helps organize initialization logic in large classes.
Indexers let you treat a class like an array. Properties allow getting or setting named values.
public string this[int index]
{
get { return names[index]; }
set { names[index] = value; }
}
Indexers are useful for fast lookups in data collection objects.
Garbage Collection (GC) automatically frees unused memory by identifying objects no longer referenced.
Garbage collection ensures efficient memory management without manual intervention.
Here's a table to explain the differences between ref and out parameters in C#:
Aspect |
ref Parameter |
out Parameter |
Initialization | The variable must be initialized before being passed. | The variable does not need to be initialized before passing. |
Usage | Used to pass a variable by reference and allow it to be modified. | Used to return a value from the method. |
Value Assignment | The method can modify the value of the variable. | The method must assign a value to the out parameter before returning. |
Code Example | static void ModifyRef(ref int value) { value += 10; } | static void ModifyOut(out int value) { value = 20; } |
Purpose | Primarily used for both input and output. | Primarily used for output, especially when multiple values need to be returned. |
Requirement for Method Call | The variable must be initialized before passing. | The variable doesn't need to be initialized before passing. |
After Method Call | The value of the variable may change after the method call. | The variable is guaranteed to have a value after the method call. |
Named arguments allow specifying arguments by their parameter names, enhancing readability and avoiding confusion.
PrintDetails(age: 30, name: "John");
This improves clarity, especially when dealing with methods with many parameters.
Delegates are type-safe function pointers, and events are specialized delegates for broadcasting notifications.
public delegate void Notify(string message);
public event Notify OnNotify;
Events help implement asynchronous and event-driven programming.
Attributes add declarative metadata to code, which is used for reflection, validation, or generating additional logic.
[Obsolete("Use NewMethod instead")]
public void OldMethod() { }
Custom attributes can be created by deriving from System.Attribute.
ADO.NET provides classes like SqlConnection, SqlCommand, and SqlDataReader to handle database connections and operations.
using (SqlConnection conn = new SqlConnection("connection_string"))
{
conn.Open();
// Execute commands
}
Though ORMs like Entity Framework are popular, ADO.NET remains a powerful choice for low-level database access.
A callback is a function called upon the completion of a task. You can implement it using delegates.
public delegate void ProcessComplete(string result);
public static void DoWork(ProcessComplete callback)
{
// Perform some work
callback("Work completed");
}
// Output “Work completed”
Callbacks are widely used in event-driven systems, though async/await often replaces them in modern code.
IEnumerable provides a sequence of items, while IEnumerator iterates through them.
public interface IEnumerable<T> { IEnumerator<T> GetEnumerator(); }
IEnumerator allows moving through the sequence with MoveNext() and Current.
The Task Parallel Library (TPL) simplifies parallel and asynchronous programming in C#. It provides a higher-level API to work with tasks and enables better scalability and performance for concurrent operations.
Task.Run(() => HeavyCalculation());
Parallel.For(0, 100, i => DoWork(i));
While the Task Parallel Library (TPL) abstracts away the manual thread management required when working directly with the Thread Pool, it still internally uses the thread pool for task execution. In essence, TPL leverages the ThreadPool to manage and schedule tasks efficiently, but it provides a more user-friendly and higher-level interface for concurrent programming.
TPL: Uses the Thread Pool behind the scenes, but abstracts away the complexity. It makes it easier for developers to write concurrent and parallel code without worrying about thread management. TPL provides task-based parallelism with higher-level methods like Task.Run, Task.WhenAll, and Parallel.For.
When preparing for a C# interview, it’s essential to dive into both foundational and advanced concepts. From the intricacies of extension methods to understanding the Task Parallel Library (TPL), C# offers a wide spectrum of topics that can be tested. Additionally, tricky areas like threading, synchronization, and memory management are critical to mastering the language.
Key Areas to Focus On:
Also Read: Top 19 C# Projects in 2025: For Beginners & Advanced
With C# interview questions covered, it’s time to map out your learning path for 2025.
Mastering C# in 2025 is essential for developers aiming to build advanced AI, cloud-native, and IoT solutions. With its continuous evolution, having a clear learning path is crucial. This roadmap ensures you’re ready to handle C# interview questions—whether you're a fresher or experienced developer. The demand for skilled C# developers in microservices, web solutions, and VR applications are at an all-time high.
Let’s dive in!
Practical readiness serves as the first step in your journey. Transition smoothly into these essentials and see how they solidify your foundation for advanced exploration.
Start with the essentials that form the bedrock of your C# expertise:
These basics set you up for deeper, more advanced C# topics.
Object-Oriented Programming (OOP) is key to creating well-structured, maintainable applications:
These concepts flow naturally into .NET, where C# shines in enterprise solutions.
Grasping the .NET ecosystem helps you understand C#’s full potential:
Understanding core algorithms and data structures is essential for efficient problem-solving:
Web development is crucial for building modern systems, especially when integrating with C#:
Optimize your development workflow with the right tools:
Trends in 2025 show a surge in microservices and container-based deployments. Armed with the right tools, you can conquer c# interview questions for freshers and c# basic interview questions that probe your comfort with practical scenarios.
Visual Studio remains a powerhouse for C# development:
.NET Core is integral for cross-platform applications:
NuGet simplifies package management:
LINQ streamlines data manipulation:
Version control ensures efficient collaboration:
Every step refines your skill set in a practical manner. This approach builds confidence for challenging c# interview questions for freshers and c# basic interview questions relevant to professional development in 2025.
Build a solid foundation with C# basics:
OOP is essential for clean, maintainable code:
Collections and generics handle data efficiently:
Master error handling for stable applications:
Asynchronous programming improves performance:
ASP.NET Core is central to web development:
Ensure code reliability with testing:
Expand your reach with cross-platform solutions:
This roadmap offers a comprehensive, step-by-step structure that prepares you for dynamic industry demands. You sharpen your potential to tackle c# interview questions with the depth and confidence needed in 2025.
Mastering C# and preparing for interviews is an ongoing journey that requires consistent effort and focus. With the advanced C# topics covered in this blog, you now have a solid understanding of essential concepts like threading, synchronization, asynchronous programming, and design patterns. These key questions will challenge your knowledge and deepen your expertise.
To ensure you’re fully prepared for your upcoming C# interview,
Take advantage of platforms like upGrad, where you can receive 1:1 counseling to help you pinpoint areas for improvement and perfect your interview techniques. If you prefer in-person learning, visiting upGrad center to meet with experts can provide valuable insights and help you build connections within the C# and .NET community.
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References:
https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/dotnet/csharp/whats-new/csharp-13
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