What is a standard approach for sending error responses in REST

Answer: PIs? Return a structured JSON response with: status → HTTP status code error → Short message details → Optional for debugging Example: { "status": 400, "error": "Bad Request", "details": "Email is required" }

What interviewers expect

• A clear definition tied to REST API in ASP.NET Web API projects
• Trade-offs (performance, maintainability, security, cost)
• When you would and would not use it in production

Real-world example

In a production ASP.NET Web API application, teams apply this when handling user-facing features or integration boundaries. For example, you might use it during a sprint where reliability and observability matter—logging metrics, validating edge cases, and documenting the decision in an ADR so future developers understand why the approach was chosen.

How to explain in the interview

1. Define the concept in one or two sentences.
2. Context — where it fits in ASP.NET Web API architecture.
3. Example — a specific project, bug, or performance win.
4. Trade-off — what you gain vs what you sacrifice.

Tip: Practice aloud on Toolliyo mock interview or the Interview Q&A section before your real interview.