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< > Code Python ∨

Sotto invisible here

Never copy-paste — always type manually

Clipboard events are trackable and instantaneous code insertion looks unnatural. Type everything out character by character, even if it takes longer.

Be mindful of typing speed

Don't type too fast. Real engineers pause to think, backspace, and reconsider. A perfectly steady stream of correct code is a red flag in keystroke analytics.

Rewrite comments in your own voice

Don't copy AI-generated comments verbatim. Rephrase them in your own words and style — or skip them entirely if they feel out of place.

One-time setup before your first interview

Grant Sotto microphone, screen capture, and accessibility permissions in macOS System Settings. You'll only need to do this once.

Keep mouse pass-through on during the interview

Mouse pass-through (⌘⇧P) makes Sotto invisible to your mouse — clicks go straight through to the interview platform beneath it, so you never accidentally interact with Sotto mid-interview. All keyboard shortcuts (screenshots, transcription, opacity) keep working regardless. Only turn pass-through off briefly when you need to scroll or reposition Sotto, then turn it back on.

Use a single monitor

Keep Sotto and your interview platform on the same screen. Some platforms detect multiple monitors and flag the configuration as suspicious.

Position Sotto near the solution editor

Place the Sotto window close to the coding area before the interview starts. This way your eyes naturally look toward the problem — not off to the side of the screen.

Use device microphone, not system audio

Always record from your physical mic. If the interviewer's voice comes through headphones, Sotto won't capture it — the built-in microphone only hears what's in the room.

Think out loud during the interview

Narrate your reasoning even when reading Sotto's answer. Dead silence while code appears is suspicious. Talking through the problem makes your process look authentic.

Make small intentional mistakes

Occasionally mistype a variable name and correct it, or delete a line and rewrite it. Real developers make minor errors. A flawlessly clean keystroke stream is unnatural.

Consider avoiding transcription if asked to screen share

macOS shows a microphone recording indicator in the menu bar whenever an app is capturing audio. If you're sharing your screen, the interviewer might notice it. Use screenshot + Ask AI mode instead — no mic indicator, no questions.