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McKinsey Problem Solving Game: Use Macbook or Windows computor?

Hi All,

As I will take the test/game within two days, I need your advice!

After reading some post sharing of McKinsey PSG, many suggest  need a mouse for PSG. As I am used to Macbook and after switch to Macbook last year, I do not use mouse anymore. (I already bought a mouse online)

I'm wondering is it better use windows system with mouse (I can borrow one) or macbook without mouse can also be high efficient by the build in touchpad?

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Profile picture of Antonello
on Sep 11, 2021
McKinsey | NASA | top 10 FT MBA professor for consulting interviews | 6+ years of coaching

Hi!

I recommend using the computer you are most comfortable with. Also, I do not believe using a mouse or a trackpad will influence your performance much!

Good luck!

Anto

Profile picture of Francesco
on Sep 11, 2021
#1 Coach for Sessions (4.500+) | 1.500+ 5-Star Reviews | Proven Success: ➡ interviewoffers.com | Ex BCG | 10Y+ Coaching

Hi Josline,

If you are comfortable with touchpad and mac, I can’t see reasons why you should switch to windows and mouse. I would use a mouse only if you can increase your speed substantially compared to a touchpad (which is not necessarily the case for everyone).

What could be useful instead is that you use a second computer to complete the Excel to set up the food chain (assuming you have some material helping you with that – you can check mine at the following link: https://www.preplounge.com/en/shop/tests-2/imbellus-combo-guide-videos-68).

If you need more help with the Imbellus please feel free to PM me.

Best,

Francesco

Profile picture of Agrim
Agrim
Coach
on Sep 12, 2021
ELITE Prep | BCG Dubai Project Leader | Top Coach | 3hrs Case Mastery | 10y+ Consulting | Free Counselling

The game is browser based so it can work on any platform. I know coachees from both platforms.

I recommend to use Chrome and NOT Safari. The new versions of Safari are known to have issues with Web Apps - and Imbellus is a Web App.

Mouse v/s Macbook Trackpad is your call. Keep the mouse handy. Although I agree that the Macbook Trackpad is sometimes more efficient that even a mouse. 

Profile picture of Florian
Florian
Coach
on Sep 13, 2021
1600 5-star reviews across platforms | 700+ offers | Highest-rated case book on Amazon | Uni lecturer in US, Asia, EU

Hi Josline,

The format and design of the game do not depend on the OS. I would recommend you go with the system you feel more comfortable with (mouse or no mouse) and make sure both systems fulfil the minimum requirements for the game.

I wish you all the best!

Cheers,

Florian

C
on Mar 12, 2025

When it comes to the McKinsey Problem Solving Game, one of the biggest debates is whether to use a MacBook or a Windows computer. Some say Mac’s smooth UI and trackpad gestures give an edge, while others argue that Windows offers better compatibility and customization. But the real issue? Technical glitches.

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Profile picture of Ian
Ian
Coach
on Sep 11, 2021
Top US BCG / MBB Coach - 5,000 sessions |Tech, Platinion, Big 4 | 9/9 personal interviews passed | 95% candidate success

Hi Josline,

Quite genuinely you should use whichever computer you are most comfortable in.

All that said, I do encourage you long-term to consider using a mouse…it's just a genuinely faster and more productive way of working!