[nry]

I could have worded the post better, but I definitely meant as part of the interview conversation. (I definitely know I am not the smartest guy in the room, nor do I want to be).

I had an interview recently where my solution was O(n^2), which I could tell was bad. I asked the interviewer if he code show me/code up the more efficient solution he mentioned previously. He mentioned that we didn't have time and dismissed my request which is very disheartening.

[davismwfl]

I hear you, I don't always word things the best either.

I think your example here is a fair question, but if there is still a lot to cover I may not take the opportunity to answer it either and instead move on to the next part of the interview, if your answer/question gave me what I needed from you. e.g. you gave an answer, and you knew it wasn't the best but were willing to look for other options and collaborate. That said, many times I am the guy who wants to talk through it with you because learning your thought process to me is WAY more important than whether you got the right answer.