Describe a Situation Where You Had to Make a Decision with Incomplete Information
Last updated: October 30, 2025
Quick Overview
Tell me about a time when you had to make a significant technical or product decision without having all the data you wanted, and explain how you managed the uncertainty.
Intuit
October 30, 202515
12
2,724 solved
Tell me about a time when you had to make a significant technical or product decision without having all the data you wanted, and explain how you managed the uncertainty.
Intuit values engineers who can operate in ambiguity, especially during tax season when decisions cannot wait. Tests judgment under uncertainty and bias toward action with appropriate risk mitigation.
What the Interviewer Expects
- Show structured thinking when facing ambiguity rather than paralysis or recklessness
- Demonstrate how you identified what information was available and what was missing
- Explain the risk mitigation strategies you put in place
- Describe the outcome and what you learned about decision-making under uncertainty
- Show appropriate bias toward action balanced with risk awareness
Key Topics to Cover
How to Approach This
- Use the STAR method: Situation, Task, Action, Result.
- Be specific about YOUR actions, not just the team outcome.
- Quantify your impact whenever possible (e.g., "reduced latency by 40%").
- Prepare stories for: conflict, failure, ambiguity, leadership, and technical trade-offs.
- Show growth mindset. Explain what you learned and how you changed your approach.
Possible Follow-up Questions
- What was the worst-case scenario and how did you prepare for it?
- In hindsight, what additional information would have been most valuable?
- How do you decide when you have enough information to act versus when to wait?
- How did you communicate the uncertainty to stakeholders?
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