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Is more Math Drills the way to solve my issue?

I have done hundreds of math drills (not simple calculations, but full case math drills), and a key issue im facing is still to not correctly account for the entire structure properly. For example, if the question is about finding a reduction across 3 years, I will sometimes forget to account for a small sub-segment.

I have tried using checklists (e.g. one bullet point that clarifies if I've accounted for all variables), but it still did not seem to help me much. The times where I can get it completely right is either not consistent, or I take ages to structure (and this does not even include pressure in a real MBB interview setting)

I understand that practice is a huge factor in this, but I've been putting in so many hours into this and still making this mistake. 

Would love some tips on how to improve this please, thank you !

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Mattijs
Coach
am 27. Apr. 2025
Free 15m intro call | First session -50% | Bain| Hiring team | 250+ successful candidates

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

Daniel
Coach
am 27. Apr. 2025
Ex-McKinsey, Bain & Kearney | 5+ yrs consulting, coaching & interviewing | 95%+ candidate success

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!

Pedro
Coach
vor 24 Std
Bain | EY-Parthenon | Former Principal | 1.5h session | 30% discount 1st session

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.

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