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Hi guys where can I find a comprehensive list of relevant math formulas which I can keep handy and use while I practice?

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Florian
Coach
on Jan 13, 2024
1400 5-star reviews across platforms | 600+ offers | Highest-rated case book on Amazon | Uni lecturer in US, Asia, EU

Hi there,

While others have posted some lists here with some valuable information, I want to make a couple of comments about case math in general:

1. As a generalist consultant applicant, you do not need to know any specialized financial formulas like NPV, etc. Cases for these positions usually do not cover this (even though some outdated case books make you believe so). Especially for MBB, math problems should be solvable with a common sense perspective, rather than specialized knowledge.

For instance, every break-even problem can also be approached as a simple benefit vs. cost consideration without knowing about the break-even formula.

2. Additionally, you can also ask interviewers during the interview about a specific formula without a penalty IF you can use the information they give you and apply it correctly to the problem at hand.

3. I am not saying that knowing certain formulas does not help BUT I want to bring case candidates away from stressing about rote learning and memorization because there is always one more thing or formula that you could learn, which is generally not the best investment of your prep time.

All the best,

Florian

on Jan 13, 2024
#1 rated McKinsey Coach
Ian
Coach
on Jan 13, 2024
Top US BCG / MBB Coach - 5,000 sessions |Tech, Platinion, Big 4 | 9/9 personal interviews passed | 95% candidate success

I have one!

In general, you want to know:

  • Breakeven (all the variations)
  • NPV (annual + perpetuity)
  • Margin
  • Markup
  • % change
  • ROI
on Jan 14, 2024
#1 Coach for Sessions (4.500+) | 1.500+ 5-Star Reviews | Proven Success: ➡ interviewoffers.com | Ex BCG | 10Y+ Coaching

Hi there,

Q: Where can I find a comprehensive list of relevant math formulas which I can keep handy and use while I practice?

Some of the most common formulas you might have to use in case interviews are:

  • Breakeven
  • NPV/Perpetuity formula
  • ROI
  • Rule of 72
  • Simple and compound growth rate

You should be able to find the formulas and definitions by googling them. In case of doubts, I would recommend opening a new Q&A with a question on the specific formula for which you would like more information.

Good luck!

Francesco

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