Back to overview

Case Math

Good case, but is it really expected to do the math in table 1 like this in like 3-4 min.?

20
3
2.8k
Be the first to answer!
Nobody has responded to this question yet.
Top answer
Profile picture of Hagen
Hagen
Coach
edited on Jan 2, 2022
Globally top-ranked MBB coach | >95% success rate | 9+ years consulting, interviewing and coaching experience

Hi Hans,

This is indeed an interesting question which is probably relevant for quite a lot of users, so I am happy to provide my perspective on it:

  • I absolutely agree with you that timing seems to be overtly tough. While I would always advise you to be prepared for literally anything and be your own toughest time keeper, this part of the case study seems to be not thought through.
  • Generally speaking, for well-rounded case studies, I would advise you to expect tough quantitative questions yet normally not questions resulting in meaningless time loss (such as calculating NPVs with the DCF method).

In case you want a more detailed discussion on how to best approach quant-heavy case studies, please feel free to contact me directly.

I hope this helps,

Hagen

Want to learn more about this topic or join the discussion?
Sign up for free with PrepLounge and get access to first-hand insights from consulting experts, practical resources for your consulting interview preparation and an international community of candidates. Join the world’s largest case interview community.
Profile picture of Ian
Ian
Coach
on Jan 1, 2022
Ex-BCG | NYU Stern | MBB, Tech, & Strategy Coach | 5,000+ Sessions | 500+ Offers | 1,000+ Candidates | 100+ Countries

Hi Hans,

I agree! It's very very rare that you'll have to do a cubed equation (or even a decimal/fraction squared equation) in a real life case.

I do always encourage my candidates to be prepared for anything….but doing PV out to year 3 is probably where I would draw the line of a realistic interview :)

Profile picture of Clara
Clara
Coach
on Jan 4, 2022
McKinsey | Awarded professor at Master in Management @ IE | MBA at MIT |+180 students coached | Integrated FIT Guide aut

Hello!

Theory says that you need to be ready for anything. The reality of life is different, and I would bet that you almost never would get something as complicated as this. 

 

Cheers, 

Clara