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Home/Questions/Python/Coding/How many cities does each department operate in? List the top 3 departments in terms of the most number of cities. In case of a tie, order by dept_id.

How many cities does each department operate in? List the top 3 departments in terms of the most number of cities. In case of a tie, order by dept_id.

Python/Codingmedium0.2 min read

**SQL:** SELECT dept_id, COUNT(DISTINCT city) city_count FROM ... GROUP BY dept_id ORDER BY city_count DESC, dept_id LIMIT 3. **Ties:** RANK() or DENSE_RANK(); filter r<=3. **Why:** Ranking semantics. **Production:** Clarify tie behavior.

🤖 Analyze Your Answer
Frequency
Low
Asked at 1 company
Category
179
questions in Python/Coding
Difficulty Split
127E|24M|28H
in this category
Total Bank
1,863
across 7 categories
Asked at these companies
Freight Tiger
Key Concepts Tested
sql

Why This Question Matters

This medium-level Python/Coding question appears frequently in data engineering interviews at companies like Freight Tiger. While less common, it tests deeper understanding that distinguishes strong candidates. Mastering the underlying concepts (sql) will help you answer variations of this question confidently.

How to Approach This

Break this problem into components. Identify the core trade-offs involved, then walk the interviewer through your reasoning step by step. Demonstrate awareness of edge cases and production considerations - this is what separates good answers from great ones.

Expert Answer
31 words

SQL: SELECT dept_id, COUNT(DISTINCT city) city_count FROM ... GROUP BY dept_id ORDER BY city_count DESC, dept_id LIMIT 3. Ties: RANK() or DENSE_RANK(); filter r<=3. Why: Ranking semantics. Production: Clarify tie behavior.

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