How to apply migrations to the database? (e.g. Update-Database)
Answer: pply the migration to your database using: .NET CLI: dotnet ef database update Package Manager Console: Update-Database EF Core translates your model changes into SQL and executes them against the database.
What interviewers expect
- A clear definition tied to EF Core in Entity Framework Core projects
- Trade-offs (performance, maintainability, security, cost)
- When you would and would not use it in production
Real-world example
In a production Entity Framework Core 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
- Define the concept in one or two sentences.
- Context — where it fits in Entity Framework Core architecture.
- Example — a specific project, bug, or performance win.
- 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.