After 37 failed interviews, I built the prep tool I wish I had

Hacker News

Hey HN, I’m Ilyas. For 18 months, I was stuck in a loop: apply, interview, reject. Repeat. I sent over 1,000 applications and failed 37 interviews. The frustrating part? I wasn't failing complex algorithm challenges. I was failing basic questions like “What are React portals?” or “Explain GET in HTTP”. I knew the answers, but under pressure, my mind went blank. I realized my problem wasn't understanding—it was remembering. At first I used ChatGPT to help me create flashcards. But with time storage and tracking complexity grew. Plus sometimes AI was wrong. That's why I've built the tool to scratch my own itch. It’s a flashcard-based system designed to move web dev knowledge from "I kinda know this" to "I can explain this instantly under pressure". How it works (The Technical Bit): Instead of passive reading, the system uses spaced repetition and active recall to fight the Ebbinghaus forgetting curve. It covers 24 categories (React, Node, SQL, etc.) with 4,900+ questions. The goal is to build strong neural pathways through testing rather than just re-watching tutorials. The Outcome: After using this system for a few weeks, I stopped panicking in interviews. I eventually scored 95% on a technical test and landed a dream offer with paid relocation. Why I’m sharing it: I felt sick from the job search process and I know many others do too. I wanted to build something practical that helps to increase chances of passing dev interview. It isn't a "magic button," but a practical system for people who are tired of failing because they "kinda" know the material. It can help you, or at least helped me to get a dream job with paid relocation. I’d love to get your feedback on what helped to do a breakthrough on successfully passing dev interviews?! p.s. just in case you would like to take a look at the tool, URL is below: https://99cards.dev/ Thanks, Ilyas

Visit product View on Hacker NewsDec 25, 2025

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