Verbalizing Framework

Question

I'm trying to determine the clearest way to verbalize my framework -- I've come across 2 methods in my practice cases, and I'm wondering which is recommended

1. Say all buckets first, then dive into them

eg. I want to look at 3 areas: X, Y, and Z. For X, I will assess A, B, C. For Y, .... etc.

2. Go all the way through each bucket, one at a time

eg. I want to look at 3 areas. First, I will look at X. I will assess A, B, and C. Next, I will look at Y.... etc.

Answer 1

Hi there,

Great question — both methods are used, but I’d recommend Method 1: stating all your buckets first, then diving into each one. It tends to come across as more structured and strategic, which is exactly what interviewers are looking for.

By laying out the full roadmap upfront (e.g. “I’ll look at X, Y, and Z”), you give your interviewer a clear, high-level overview of your thinking — almost like a table of contents. It shows that you’ve thought holistically about the problem before diving into the details.

Then, when you go into each bucket, you can elaborate systematically without the listener losing the big picture.

Method 2 can feel more like you’re building the structure as you go, which risks sounding less organized — even if the content is strong.

So, unless you're under extreme time pressure, I’d go with Method 1 to demonstrate top-down, executive-style communication.

Let me know if you need further help!

Best,

Evelina

Answer 2

Hi there,

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

I would strongly advise you to use the first method - mention all top-level factors/dimensions/steps first, then go into the details of each of them. This approach is called top-down communication and is a critical skill in consulting.

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 your application files, for your upcoming pre-interview assessments and/or interviews, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

Answer 3

hey there!

I recomment the first method! Listing all buckets first is more top-down, shows structure, and helps your interviewer get the big picture before diving into details. It also signals confidence and clarity. Just keep it crisp so you don't lose them in too much detail too early.

best,
Alessa :)

Answer 4

Hi there,

Go with the first one. Organize it so that the most important one comes first and finalize this session by stating where you would start in terms of bucket, the specific subtopic and WHY.

Best,

Mari

Answer 5

The first method is definitely better and more top-down.

Your interviewer will quickly have a bird's eye view of your entire structure in the first method, before you start giving details.

In the second method, they will not have a clear sense of what your overarching structure is and how long you're going to talk for, until you finish!

Answer 6

The first model is the correct one.

It's called the pyramid principle and you can learn more about it from books such as Barabara Minto's pyramid principle (though a quick ChatGPT synthesis will give you the gist of it).

That is how you should present all 'content'-related questions in consulting interviews.

Best,
Cristian

Answer 7

Hi there, and thanks for asking, Indeed, setting up the framework for a profitability case can be a bit confusing, ho... (read entire answer)

Hi there, and thanks for asking, Indeed, setting up the framework for a profitability case can be a bit confusing, however, I would advise you not to think of “THE” framework wh... (read entire answer)