Is more Math Drills the way to solve my issue?

Hi,

Solving a question with a lot of math (e.g., market sizing) involves several steps.

1) Structuring the problem right. Set-up a MECE framework and check the way forward with your interviewer

2) Estimate or request numbers for each parameter of your framework

3) Perform the calculations step by step to make sure you incorporate all the steps/branches of your framework. You can round the numbers if appropriate (check with the interviewer). Be sure you do not miss zeros (very common mistake)

4) Sense check numbers with the goal/real world and ask yourself what the number means for the case

I see a lot of candidates with a non-science/economy/math background struggling with math heavy questions. By applying the steps above and sufficient practice, you should be able to reach a level sufficient to pass the interview. 

Feel free to reach out via chat so I can provide you more info.

Mattijs

Few tips:

• Before you start calculating, write out the full structure (e.g., all years, segments).
• Repeat the question out loud in your own words to catch missing elements.
• Continue using simple checklists (this is good!): timeline, sub-segments, totals; tick each before moving forward.
• Pause after setup to double-check logic before crunching numbers.
• Practice under light time pressure, but prioritize accuracy first, speed second.

I think it would be helpful if you have someone who can look over your shoulders to identify the root causes.

Best of luck!

I doubt that asking the same question 10 times will actually help you in solving this problem. The fact that you ask the same question about 10 times in the same month strongly suggests that the problem does not lie on math or structuring ability, but instead on the ability to listen and to pay attention / stay focused.

Hi there,

I know how this can be frustrating, but this problem can be fixed. 
Notice that practice without a good method will only cristalize bad habits. I’ll share the method I use, but considering the comment above, I believe you probably need a professional evaluation to understand the root cause of your issue.

1. Restate the problem given to you making sure you understand the drill. Ask about the details that may be connected to other previous parts of the case (e.g.: should I consider timeline of X years?). Take note of the details as you will use them later.

2. Check if you have got the correct numbers and units.

3. Ask for a moment to organize your structure. That can be a table, an equation, a diagram, etc. 

4. As you do the structure DO NOT put any numbers yet. That will make it easier for you to sanity check and explain your logic to the interviewer. Check your notes to see if you’re considering all the case context.

5. Confirm the logic with the interviewer

6. Conduct the math, you may walk this person through as you go, but if you usually make small mistakes, better to make it in silence to catch those before presenting it.

7. After sanity checking the result (look to your notes again), verify what are the so what’s / compare the number to a given one or ask for one to understand it better (if it’s the case). Connect to the overall case problem.

8. Propose the next step given the insights generated.

You can use it as a cheat sheet, it has helped me and candidates to be less error prone. 
Feel free to DM me if you would like to understand if coaching is what you need right now. I offer a 20min free consultation, happy to discuss your situation and see if I can support you in this challenge.

Best,

Mari

Hard to tell without seeing you in practice.

But it sounds like it's not the drills. 

It rather has to do with your technique of approach calculations, for instance mixing the development of the approach with the actual computations, not aligning enough with the interviewer etc. 

Consider getting some professional feedback to diagnose the issue.

Best,
Cristian

Hi,

This sounds an approach question, not a maths question. 

This is my approach to a numerical section in a case:

1. Confirm the question and make sure you get the right numbers and units  e.g. You need to calculate the breakeven in percents % 

2. Ask for a minute to gather your thoughts 

   Write down the break-even calculation and approach 

3. Verbally go through the calculation logic without numbers e.g. A break-even percent will require a demonimator and numerator, for the numerator I will use the x number and for the demoninator I need to calculate the y

    

4. Confirm this approach with your interviewer - this is usually where they will find a mistake in the logic and say you should relook at something 

    

5. Then add in the numbers and begin your calculations, some people talk out loud, but some people don't - do what you prefer. But I would suggest speaking out lout the main calculations.

   I like to keep one page that I'm writing on for just input numbers - then I calculate on other pages. Keeping your working pages neat and easy to understand will allow you to follow your thoughts and correct mistakes more easily. 

Hey there!

It sounds like you’re putting in a lot of effort, which is great! However, focusing purely on math drills may not be enough if you’re struggling with the overall structure and consistency. Here are some tips to help improve your approach:

1. Break Down the Problem into Clear Steps: Before diving into the math, write down a clear structure of the case. Use a step-by-step checklist that outlines the variables, sub-segments, and steps in the math process. This can help you focus on one step at a time.
2. Practice with Timed, Realistic Scenarios: The pressure you’ll feel in interviews is real, so try replicating that as much as possible in your practice sessions. Time yourself, simulate interviews, and avoid taking extra time to think. This will help you get used to working within the time constraints.
3. Focus on Understanding the Logic: Instead of just memorizing formulas or calculations, focus on understanding why you’re calculating what you’re calculating. If you understand the logic behind the numbers, you’ll be less likely to miss a sub-segment.
4. Check for Gaps and Review Your Mistakes: After completing each drill, review your answers critically and pinpoint the exact mistake. Did you miss a key segment? Did you misinterpret the numbers? Knowing where you went wrong is crucial for improvement.
5. Practice Under Pressure: Try to do your math drills with the same level of pressure you’ll experience in the interview setting. This will help you get used to staying focused under stress, which is often when mistakes happen.
6. Seek Feedback from Others: If possible, have someone else review your case-solving approach. Sometimes, an outside perspective can help spot patterns you might have missed.

Keep practicing, but remember that consistency and clarity are key. The more you simplify the process and focus on structure, the better you’ll get at avoiding mistakes.

Best,
Alessa