How does REST differ from SOAP?

Short answer: REST → Lightweight, uses HTTP, usually JSON, easy to use, stateless. SOAP → Protocol-based, uses XML, more complex, built-in security & transactions. REST is more flexible and widely used for web and mobile apps.

Real-world example (ShopNest)

Creating an order is POST /api/orders → 201 with Location header. Fetching is GET /api/orders/{id} → 200 or 404.

Say this in the interview

1. Define — one clear sentence (the short answer above).
2. Example — relate it to a project like ShopNest or your real work.
3. Trade-off — when you would not use it.