How to prep for PTL test in BCG R1? What resources to use?

Hi there,

BCG’s PTL focuses on structured logical reasoning under time pressure rather than pure math or IQ puzzles. The most representative prep tends to be GMAT Critical Reasoning for argument evaluation, Integrated Reasoning for multi constraint logic, and SHL style numerical and logical tests for speed and elimination. These train the same skills you’ll need in PTL, especially working top down, filtering information, and staying disciplined under time constraints.

What matters most is practicing timed sets, learning to eliminate options quickly, and getting comfortable skipping and returning rather than solving everything perfectly. Avoid overinvesting in abstract brainteasers, as PTL is closer to applied business logic than puzzles.

Happy to help you further if any questions - feel free to reach out!

Best,
Evelina

The BCG PTL tests logical reasoning under time pressure, not business knowledge. So don't worry about cases or frameworks here. It's all about how fast and accurately you can think through structured problems.

Here's what actually helps.

GMAT Critical Reasoning is a good starting point. It trains the kind of thinking PTL tests. Focus on assumption, inference, and strengthen/weaken questions.

GMAT Integrated Reasoning works too. It gets you used to handling multiple pieces of information under time pressure.

SHL-style logical tests are useful for the format. They're timed, multiple choice, and focus on pattern recognition. You can find free samples online.

If you want to get better at constraint-based reasoning, try LSAT logic games. They train you to track conditions and eliminate options step by step.

A few tips that help:

Practice with a timer. Speed matters a lot. Get used to deciding quickly without second-guessing yourself.

Focus on elimination. Often it's faster to rule out wrong answers than to solve for the right one.

Don't overthink it. If you're going in circles, step back and look for what you missed. These questions usually have a clean logical path.

And always review your mistakes. Understanding why you got something wrong matters more than just knowing the right answer.

You don't need months of prep. A week or two of focused practice is usually enough if you stay consistent.

Good luck.

Good question! Here is my 2 cents.

The high-ROI strategy here involves training the specific skill of cross-referencing messy data sets quickly. For resources, strategically targeting GMAT/GRE preparation materials offers the best functional overlap. Focus heavily on the Integrated Reasoning (IR) section—specifically the table analysis and multi-source reasoning questions. These modules force you to manage multiple distinct pieces of data to deduce a single outcome, which is precisely the cognitive load management the PTL assesses.

Secondarily, leverage GMAT Critical Reasoning problems. They train you to rapidly identify assumptions and logical flaws, which speeds up your ability to parse the premise of the PTL scenarios. Forget the pure quantitative and geometry sections; they are largely a waste of time for this specific test.

Your preparation execution must center on timing: you need to complete the section, even if it means sacrificing some accuracy early on. The goal is to shift your mental model from "solve the problem perfectly" to "find the minimum required information to eliminate three options." If you are not moving the needle on a question within 90 seconds, mark it, guess, and move on. Getting through the volume is more important than getting any individual question correct.

All the best!

I see you've already received several great, targeted answers. 

What I'd add is that you shouldn't overthink it. 

Basically, if you train with any screening material you can get your hands on, from any firm, that will already cover at least 80% of the skill that you're being tested for in this BCG one as well. 

The variance in format and skills required is small, which is why it's not worth investing a disproportionate amount of time looking for the exact format practice.

Adding here another resource with the most common formulas and terms that appear in cases and screening tests:

• • Cheatsheet: The Must-Know Consulting Terms for Interviews

Best,
Cristian

Hey there :)

Very short answer, focus on GMAT Integrated Reasoning and GMAT Critical Reasoning for elimination and constraint based thinking, plus SHL style logical reasoning tests for speed under pressure. Skip pure IQ puzzles as they are low ROI. Time yourself strictly and practice reading the question first, then eliminating aggressively, this mirrors PTL best. If you do this consistently for a few days, that is more than enough. Happy to help more if you want.

best,
Alessa :)