System design is visual. Close the book after reading a prompt, set a 45-minute timer, and draw the architecture on a physical whiteboard or a digital canvas like Excalidraw.
Use Alex Xu for the what (the components). Use Lewis Lin for the how (the conversation). You cannot draw a perfect diagram if you can't explain why you chose it. The System Design Interview 2nd Edition Lewis Lin Pdf
The cornerstone of Lin's book is the method. This step-by-step framework ensures comprehensive coverage of every architectural layer: System design is visual
Your target (e.g., Mid-level, Senior, Staff) The specific companies you are interviewing with How much preparation time you have remaining set a 45-minute timer