Getting Back Into Casing After a Break — Feels Like I Lost Everything

Question

A few months back I did around 40 full cases, really grinding hard and getting to a point where I felt genuinely interview-ready. My math was sharp, structuring solid, confidence high. Then my interview got pushed to autumn, and I paused casing for a while.

Now that I'm getting back into it, I’m putting in the hours again — but honestly, it feels like I’m starting from zero. My structuring, which used to be nearly flawless, is now horrendous. It’s frustrating because I know I was good, but it’s like nothing stuck.

Has anyone else gone through this? Do I need to re-put in the same amount of hours as the first time, or is there a more efficient way to regain my edge? Any specific routines, drills, or mental frameworks that helped you bounce back faster?

Would appreciate any insights or suggestions — feeling a bit stuck.

Answer 1

This happens to a lot of people after a break. Structuring and math are perishable, especially when you’re not actively practicing, but the overall muscle memory can come back after a few tries.

You don’t need to do another 40 cases. Start by reviewing your old case notes and frameworks, then run 3–5 drills per day: market sizing, math sprints (during commutes or bathroom breaks), structuring prompts. Do a few light solo cases before jumping back into mocks. It will come back quicker than you expect if you focus on reps and consistency.

No need to panic. Just set a tight routine and stay disciplined for the next couple of weeks.

Answer 2

Hey - first of all, you're not starting from zero. It may feel like that because your muscle memory is rusty, not because the skill is gone. The fact that you once reached a high level means you’ll get back there way faster than the first time.

Totally normal to feel frustrated - I’ve seen this happen with many candidates who took a break. Here’s what I’ve found helps:

Ease back in with drills before full cases - practice just structuring or just math for a few days. Think of it like warming up before lifting heavy!
Review your old cases/notes to trigger recall - you’ll be surprised how much comes back just from reading through your own thinking
Set short, focused sessions - even 30 min a day can get you back in form in a couple weeks. Don’t burn yourself out by trying to cram in 5 cases/day from the start

Lastly, the fact that you care this much already puts you ahead of the curve. You’ve done it once, and you’ll get there again faster than you think.

Happy to help if you want to run a case or troubleshoot what’s feeling off right now!

Answer 3

Hi Vito,

I would be happy to share my thoughts on your question:

First of all, it’s totally normal to feel rusty after a break from case study practice - but it’s not starting from zero.
Moreover, I would advise you to review old case studies you have done in the past for 2-3 days. This will quickly trigger recall and bring back a good chunk of your skills.

You can find more on this topic here: How to succeed in the final interview round.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on how to best prepare for your upcoming interviews, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

Answer 4

Hi Vito,

Sorry to hear. That must be frustrating.

Honestly, it might feel this way at the start, but you'll likely ramp up a lot faster this time. You didn't forget everything. You just need to reactivate all that knowledge.

Also, to prevent these things from happening, make sure that you're recruiting with several firms in parallel (it reduces the risk on your side).

Best,
Cristian

Answer 5

Hey Vito:)

Totally normal, skills like casing are perishable, but the good news is: it comes back way faster than the first time. You’re not starting from scratch, just a bit rusty. I’d recommend short, focused drills to rebuild muscle memory: 10-min structuring prompts daily, mental math warm-ups, and mini-syntheses from exhibits. After 4–5 warm-up cases, you’ll already feel sharper.

Also: don’t panic if the first few feel rough, trust the foundation you built. Pairing with a strong partner or coach can also help you re-calibrate fast. Happy to help if you want to get back into top shape quickly!

Best,
Alessa :)