Hi there, 

First of all, it doesn't sound good that you're applying only to McK. 

The average success rate is 1%. And even the candidates I coach have a 60% success rate if they're applying only for McK - and I'm meant to be the best at this. 

So it's a huge gamble. 

I'm not sure where you're based, but I doubt McKinsey is the only consulting firm there. 

You need to diversify your risk and build a proper application strategy. Here's how:

• Free Guide: Build A Winning Application Strategy

Then, yes, if you don't feel prepared then don't apply just yet. 

I tell candidates to apply when they feel 70-80% ready for the interviewer. 

For the game itself you can also practice with one of the guides that are sold on platforms. 

They give you a very good understanding of how to ‘win’ it. Though if you do enough casing you will already have the skills necessary to win at the game without the guide.

Best,
Cristian

Hi there,

Honestly, it does sound like you should wait. 

It sounds to me like you also have yet to case prep sufficiently, is that right?

In which case, the McK Imbellus isn't the only thing that you need to be ready for before you apply.

It actually is very important to prep for McKinsey's PSG. That is especially true now that RedRock has been brought it.

As long as there is a deadline 1 month from now, I see no reason not to wait until the later application try deadline given you don't sound quite ready.

Here's some more reading to help:

https://www.preplounge.com/en/articles/pitfalls-case-interview-preparation

https://www.preplounge.com/en/articles/how-to-get-a-consulting-internship-tips-and-tricks

Hi there,

Q: So, should I take the time to improve my problem-solving (case a lot, solve pst & gmat) or should I apply early, now? 

If you use a good course/guide, it should actually not take too long to be ready for the PSG. If instead you want to use the time to be ready for interviews and there are no specific deadlines, you might want to use the time to improve on that part.

For the PSG, you can find an article below with a few tips:

▶ McKinsey Problem-Solving Game Article

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If you want to prepare further, you can find below a video simulation with:

• 23 videos showing how to crack the Ecosystem Game in 23 minutes (instead of the recommended 35), resist 25+ turns in the Plant Defense (instead of the minimum target of 15) and prepare for the 4 Phases of the new Redrock Study (including tips for the new case part)
• Automated Excel with Formulas to build a food chain in the Ecosystem game in 13 minutes
• PDF guide with all 6 possible games and how to crack each of them

You can check the video simulation at the following link (full disclosure, I am the author):

▶ McKinsey PSG Video Simulation

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For any other questions please feel free to PM me.

Best,

Francesco