Uniform Treatment of Individual and Composite Objects:?

Short answer: Both files and directories are treated the same, as they implement the IFileSystemComponent interface. This makes it easier to manage a mixed structure of individual and composite objects.

Real-world example (ShopNest)

Use a GoF pattern in ShopNest only when it removes duplication or makes a change safer—explain the problem it solves in the interview.

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.