Frequently asked questions
The short version of what RealDev is and how it works.
What is RealDev?
RealDev is a place to practice real-world software engineering. Instead of algorithm puzzles, you build actual features like authentication, APIs, data handling, and UI components, and your code runs in a real Docker environment against a real test suite.
How is RealDev different from algorithm sites like LeetCode?
Algorithm sites quiz you on data structures and puzzles. RealDev gives you the kind of work you actually do on the job: build a feature, run it in a real environment, and see whether it passes real tests. It feels a lot closer to shipping code than to whiteboarding.
Do I need to use AI to solve challenges?
No. The whole point is to think through the problem yourself, so there is no AI writing code for you while you work. After you submit, you can optionally run an AI code review if you want feedback.
How long does a challenge take?
Most of them are small enough to finish in about 20 to 30 minutes, so you can get a focused session in without blocking out your whole evening.
Is RealDev free?
Yes. The free tier is genuinely usable, with real challenges and real execution. Pro is $8.99 a month and adds more AI code reviews, full submission history, and unlimited follow-up questions for the AI reviewer.
What languages can I use?
You can work in JavaScript and TypeScript (Node.js), Python, Go, Java, and C, all running in real Docker containers.