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Completed McKinsey's Solve game today. I aced the ecosystem but felt I did poorly on Red Rock...Should I feel bad?

McKinsey & Company McKinsey problem solving game
New answer on Jul 28, 2023
5 Answers
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Lucas asked on Jul 27, 2023

Just completed the PSG, I aced the ecosystem and completed in 28 minutes or so but I struggled with Red Rocks and was running out of time, so I had to rush and guess on the calculations towards the end. I'm unsure how to feel about it. I understand the PSG results are added to your resume for an overall view of your application? Any feedback would be helpful!

Note: I used MConsultedPrep's simulation material which helped a ton so I highly recommend them to people if they're interested in it.

 

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Sophia
Expert
replied on Jul 28, 2023
Top-Ranked Coach on PrepLounge for 3 years| 6+ years of coaching

Hello,

The PSG results are just one part of your application - they will be assessed together with your CV, cover letter, and overall application. So a lower score in one part of the test won't necessarily doom your application, if all other parts of it are good. Definitely don't feel bad, and fingers crossed for you!

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Lucas on Jul 28, 2023

Thank you! I appreciate the insightful response. Its out of my hands now

Francesco
Expert
Content Creator
replied on Jul 28, 2023
#1 Coach for Sessions (4.500+) | 1.500+ 5-Star Reviews | Proven Success (➡ interviewoffers.com) | Ex BCG | 10Y+ Coaching

Hi Lucas,

Q: I struggled with Red Rocks. I'm unsure how to feel about it. I understand the PSG results are added to your resume for an overall view of your application?

Yes, they should evaluate your performance with the rest of the application material.

I understand the desire to understand more clearly your performance, however that's not under your control now. Regardless of the outcome, I would recommend focusing on what you can control now - the prep for other applications/case interview next steps. 

Good luck!

Francesco

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Ian
Expert
Content Creator
replied on Jul 28, 2023
#1 BCG coach | MBB | Tier 2 | Digital, Tech, Platinion | 100% personal success rate (8/8) | 95% candidate success rate

Hi Lucas,

Totally agree MCP's Imbellus resources are the best out there.

Now, never ever ever feel bad.

Simply learn and improve. Such is life! We're bound to make mistakes, do things wrong, etc. What's important is that we push forward and learn from the past.

You are right that the application is assessed hollistically.

Also remember there are dozens of other firms out there.

Also remember this is year 1 of dozens of years in which you could possibly work for McKinsey.

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Andi
Expert
replied on Jul 28, 2023
BCG 1st & Final Round interviewer | Personalized prep with >95% success rate | 7yrs coaching | #1 for Experienced Hires

Hi there,

as other coaches mentioned, they will review your application holistically, so it's hard to say what it means for your chances. 

In general, you will need to be above the threshold score they have, which is definitely possible to reach even if the 2nd game wasn't perfect. I've seen that many times. That said, at this stage, it would be outright speculation, so suggest you focus on what's in your control meanwhile. 

Make sure you keep pushing in terms of case prep and PEI story development meanwhile, as once you hear back, interviews can be scheduled fairly quickly, with little lead time.

Wish you all the best.

Regards, Andi

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Cristian
Expert
Content Creator
replied on Jul 28, 2023
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach

Hi Lucas,

Sorry to hear your performance didn't match your expectations.

Don't lose hope though. 

In most offices the Solve game is judged together with the application (CV, cover letter, referral), so if the latter are very strong they can compensate for an average Solve score. 

Hope you hear back from them soon!
Best,
Cristian

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Sophia gave the best answer

Sophia

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