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Calculation during case

Calculation tips
New answer on Sep 23, 2019
3 Answers
1.4 k Views
Anonymous A asked on Sep 22, 2019

Is it ok to calculate by hand during the case on the sheet of paper?

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Anonymous replied on Sep 23, 2019

Dear A,

Yes, that is expected from you during the interview.

Let me know, if you need any help during preparation to the interview.

Best,

André

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Francesco
Expert
Content Creator
replied on Sep 23, 2019
#1 Coach for Sessions (4.000+) | 1.500+ 5-Star Reviews | Proven Success (➡ InterviewOffers.com) | Ex BCG | 10Y+ Coaching

Hi Anonymous,

it is totally fine to write down your calculations during the interview.

In terms of how to approach math in the case, this is what I would recommend:

  1. Repeat the question – candidates sometimes do mistakes answering the wrong question in the math part
  2. Present how you would like to proceed from a theoretical point of view (you may ask for time before presenting if you initially don't know how to approach the problem)
  3. Ask for time and perform the first computations
  4. Present interim steps to the interviewer to keep him/her aligned – don’t just say the final number
  5. Continue with the computations until you find the final answer
  6. Propose next steps on the basis of the results you found

Best,

Francesco

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Vlad
Expert
replied on Sep 23, 2019
McKinsey / Accenture Alum / Got all BIG3 offers / Harvard Business School

Hi,

I doubt anyone can make case calculations without taking notes. So you SHOULD be using a sheet of paper.

I recommend using the following approach while doing your calculations:

  1. Tell the interviewer your approach / formula
  2. Check with the interviewer that your approach is correct
  3. Ask for a minute to perform the calculations
  4. Check any assumptions you make with the interviewer. If you need to round the number - you have to check with the interviewer as well
  5. Come to the interviewer with some intermediate calculations results to check that you are moving in the right direction
  6. Come up with the final answer

Best!

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