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Atmrix

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GT

Garry Tan

10/18/19

@ Garry Tan

If you get cut off during your answer, you might not be able to return to it, so be concise and direct to avoid pitfalls.

Video

GT

3 Tips to Nail the Y Combinator Interview

@ Garry Tan

3 Tips to Nail the Y Combinator Interview

10/18/19

Related Takeaways

IM

Ian McAllister

11/20/22

@ Lenny's Podcast

To improve communication, always answer questions directly before providing additional context; this helps avoid rambling.

DC

Dalton Caldwell

05/13/23

@ Y Combinator

Your written answers should be clear and concise; avoid lengthy responses as they do not earn you extra points.

GT

Garry Tan

10/18/19

@ Garry Tan

Be concise and straightforward, as the interviewers may be very smart but might not be familiar with your specific industry.

WK

Wes Kao

04/06/25

@ Lenny's Podcast

When you don't know the answer in a meeting, instead of saying 'I'll get back to you,' try to provide context or related information to keep the conversation going.

MS

Michael Seibel

09/24/19

@ Y Combinator

Avoid lengthy explanations of how you came up with your idea; instead, get straight to the point.

KH

Kevin Hale

09/13/19

@ Y Combinator

To make your pitch clear, avoid ambiguity, complexity, jargon, and unnecessary preambles, and focus on being conversational.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

09/20/18

@ Y Combinator

Practice your answers but avoid sounding robotic; keep your responses natural and engaging.

GT

Garry Tan

10/18/19

@ Garry Tan

Using an inverted pyramid structure for your answers is ideal; answer the question directly first, then provide additional information.

MS

Michael Seibel

09/24/19

@ Y Combinator

Avoid sending multiple follow-ups in quick succession; trust that if your email is concise, investors will read it and decide whether to respond.