I did lots of interview on both sides and know how often interviews are just luck - got asked trick question that I knew answer to, coding problem that involves algorithm I just recently used, etc.

There is so much randomness that I, as interviewer, decided on the following strategy - put candidate into best possible position and judge from that. I settle on one set of questions - "tell me about your most favorite project, why, and let's discuss in detail". If candidate knows his/her stuff - this is fun/informative discussion. Also easy filter if a candidate cannot say much or doesn't understand details of project they consider their favorite.

I can surely discuss my recent projects, but the favourite one was from almost 18 years ago, i would be hard pressed on the details.

[delayed]