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New answer on Aug 04, 2020
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Anonymous A asked on Aug 02, 2020

Dear Community,

I want to prepare for case interview (long term prep). I want to learn about the business itself before.

Currently, Trying to decide which introductory-level accounting course should I take. Financial Accounting or Managerial Accounting. Which one will be more useful for case interview/ working as consultant ?

Thank you for your help

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Francesco
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replied on Aug 03, 2020
#1 Coach for Sessions (4.000+) | 1.500+ 5-Star Reviews | Proven Success (➡ InterviewOffers.com) | Ex BCG | 10Y+ Coaching

Hi there,

In terms of case interviews, you don’t need either of the two. You just need to know how to read a basic balance sheet and P&L, the basic ratios (eg P/E) and the basic financial formulas (eg breakeven). If you do 5-10 M&A/PE cases with P&L and/or balance sheet you should be fine.

In terms of the job, Financial Accounting could definitely be useful, in particular for due diligence, M&A and PE projects.

Best,

Francesco

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Robert
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replied on Aug 02, 2020
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Hi Anonymous,

I believe it's not a right or wrong decision to take - but I'd definitely start with financial accounting since in reality this is also the basis for managerial accounting.

And financial accounting is like business 101 knowledge - just the basis for many other topics to cover, and having a solid understanding of balance sheet, profit and loss statement as well as cashflow statement is definitely required.

Hope that helps - if so, please be so kind to give it a thumbs-up with the green upvote button below!

Robert

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Ian
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replied on Aug 03, 2020
#1 BCG coach | MBB | Tier 2 | Digital, Tech, Platinion | 100% personal success rate (8/8) | 95% candidate success rate

Hi there,

To be honest, you really only need to know basic accounting for cases, however it can't hurt to take a course in it.

I'd opt for Financial Accounting as it truly lays the groundwork for how businesses operate.

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Anonymous replied on Aug 04, 2020

Dear A,

I don't know the curiculum for both courses, but from the name I would rather pick up managerial accounting.

Hope it helps and wish you best of luck,

André

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Francesco gave the best answer

Francesco

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