For candidates preparing to answer interview questions.
Before each question in your Truffle interview, you may get time to prepare before recording begins — this is called thinking time. You'll see the question on screen with a countdown timer. Start recording whenever you're ready, or wait and recording begins automatically when the timer ends. Use the window to read the question, gather your thoughts, and get set.
How much thinking time you get
Thinking time is set by the interviewer and varies from question to question — it can range from none at all to unlimited.
If there's no thinking time, recording begins as soon as the question appears; there's no separate preparation window.
If thinking time is unlimited, there's no countdown — you start recording when you're ready.
How thinking time helps you
Thinking time is there to help you give your best answer, not to add pressure. Use it to:
Show your best self — take a moment to collect your thoughts before responding.
Structure your response — mentally outline what you want to say.
Reduce nerves — a short pause to breathe and refocus can make a real difference.
Tips for using your thinking time
Read the full question before you start planning your response.
Outline your key points rather than scripting every word.
Stay calm — the time is built in to help you.
Don't overthink it — a few clear points beat a perfect script.
Frequently asked questions
Can I start recording before thinking time ends?
Yes. You can start recording at any point during thinking time. If you don't start manually, recording begins automatically when the countdown finishes.
What if there's no thinking time?
Some questions are set up with no thinking time. Recording starts as soon as the question appears — respond naturally; there's no expectation that you'll have a prepared answer.
Does thinking time affect how my response is evaluated?
No. Thinking time is preparation time only. Your response is evaluated on what you say during the recording, not on how you use your thinking time.