**Code**:
```python
from pyspark.sql.functions import when, col
spark = SparkSession.builder.getOrCreate()
df = spark.read.parquet("/path")
result = df.filter(col("region") == "US").withColumn("category", when(col("amount") > 100, "high").otherwise("low"))
```
**Why**: Filter before calculated column reduces data. when/otherwise = built-in, optimized.
**Scalability Trade-offs**: Filter first. Built-in over UDF.
**Cost Implications**: Filter early = less data....
The complete answer continues with detailed implementation patterns, architectural trade-offs, and production-grade considerations. It covers performance optimization strategies, common pitfalls to avoid, and real-world examples from companies like Bristol Myers Squibb. The answer also includes follow-up discussion points that interviewers commonly explore.
Continue Reading the Full Answer
Unlock the complete expert answer with code examples, trade-offs, and pro tips - plus 1,863+ more.
According to DataEngPrep.tech, this is one of the most frequently asked Spark/Big Data interview questions, reported at 1 company. DataEngPrep.tech maintains a curated database of 1,863+ real data engineering interview questions across 7 categories, verified by industry professionals.