Answering Interview questions

In my experience, you should always be prepared, especially if it is a question you know you will be asked. Being informed on current events, no matter the situation is very important and shows you have a genuine interest.

Generally, you should only provide a sufficient answer to a question. If you start rambling on about things you have little knowledge about, the interviewer may probe for more, and you will have nothing else to add. Often though, I have had interviewers probe for more information or ask more difficult questions. I would take it as far as I could. When I simply don't know a question, I would say so. The interviewer would then step in and help. I have never had this backfire on me because they do not expect you to know everything (unless it is something very basic).

I think it is better to come of as prepared. Don't try to give a basic answer for the purpose of not getting drilled--that just reflects poorly on you. Do some research and make a genuine effort.

Pro tip: Whenever I miss a question or the interviewer steps in to explain further, I always mention it in the "thank you" email. I say something along the lines "I appreciate you walking me through ABC...I now have a better understanding of so and so." I think it shows that you learned and take initiative to improve. I'm not an interviewer--but I have never got a bad response doing this.