This article explains how picking the right database in a system design interview can make or break a scalable system while preventing issues like high latency, data loss, or downtime. It walks through several common use cases—beginning with structured data scenarios requiring ACID compliance, as seen in high-transaction platforms like Amazon or Flipkart—to illustrate why relational databases are ideal for ensuring atomicity, consistency, isolation, and durability. The article emphasizes that relational databases such as MySQL and PostgreSQL are top recommendations when strict data consistency and well-defined schemas are needed, and it sets the stage for discussing additional scenarios, including those that call for flexible schemas.

Key Points:

• Importance of Database Choice: The right database is crucial in system design interviews for creating scalable, robust systems.
• Use Case Focus: Begins with structured data scenarios needing ACID properties, as showcased in online marketplaces.
• ACID Compliance: Highlights atomicity, consistency, isolation, and durability to manage complex transaction operations.
• Product Recommendations: Recommends relational databases like MySQL and PostgreSQL for scenarios demanding strict consistency and transactional integrity.
• Preparation for Interview Scenarios: Offers insight into common system design use cases that interviewers might probe, setting up frameworks for later discussions in the article.

Why did the database bring a ladder to the interview? Because it heard it needed to scale!
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