Question on Coaching sessions

Question

Hi coaches, if a candidate comes to you at an early stage of preparation (e.g. has done ~10 cases, understands the basic case flow and some theory) and wants to sign up for 10 coaching sessions, how would you structure the overall prep plan and coaching sessions?

Assuming the candidate is not rushing for a specific application deadline, but instead wants to become genuinely well-prepared before applying and maximise their chances once applications are submitted, how would you approach the preparation journey?

Answer 1

Good question. Here's how I'd think about it:

Sessions 1-2: Diagnostic. A live case or two where I'm mapping your real gaps: where exactly do you break down? Structure? Quant? Synthesis? It's not about scoring you, but knowing what to prioritize.

Sessions 3-6: Full cases, but each one chosen to stress a specific weakness. You still need the reps and pattern recognition that come from doing complete cases, but the case selection is deliberate.

Sessions 7-10: Full cases under realistic pressure, integrating everything. You want consistency by this point, not just occasional good performances.

Worth noting: 10 sessions focused on cases is solid, but fit/PEI is a whole separate prep track that deserves its own dedicated time. Don't let it become an afterthought!

And the work between sessions matters as much as the sessions themselves. Specific drills with clear goals, not just "go do 5 more cases on your own.