Is it better to use graph or plain paper in the cases? do people find using graph helps with keeping track of numbers?
Back to overview
18
plain or graph paper for case interviews better?
3
5.1k
Be the first to answer!
Nobody has responded to this question yet.
Top answer
A
Deleted
on Jul 16, 2018
Coach
Whatever works best for you - your notes are non-evaluative (except in the context of communicating your structure) and will be thrown away after your interview. Therefore the only consideration is what helps you.
Personally, I found graph paper helpful for math and for structuring neatly.
0 comments
Want to learn more about this topic or join the discussion?
Sign up for free with PrepLounge and get access to first-hand insights from consulting experts, practical resources for your consulting interview preparation and an international community of candidates. Join the world’s largest case interview community.
McKinsey / Accenture Alum / Got all BIG3 offers / Harvard Business School
Hi,
Graph paper helps to draw the structures better. In terms of tracking the numbers, I guess it's pretty similar.
Best
Francesco
on Jul 16, 2018
Coach
#1 Coach for Sessions (4.500+) | 1.500+ 5-Star Reviews | Proven Success: ➡ interviewoffers.com | Ex BCG | 10Y+ Coaching
Hi Anonymous,
if you have the option, definitely go for the graph paper, will help to track zeros better (probably the #1 mistake in math) and be better organized in general with your notes.
Best,
Francesco
Similar Questions
Most Popular Posts
Didn’t receive the Bain AC Online Test
16
on Oct 21, 2026
UK
6
300+
Top answer by
Andrzej
Coach
Strategy&, PwC | Middle East, EMEA, CEE
6 Answers
300+ Views
N
+3
BCG 1st round in Madrid. An experience or tips?
16
on Oct 21, 2026
Europe
8
400+
Top answer by
Ian
Coach
Ex-BCG | NYU Stern | MBB, Tech, & Strategy Coach | 5,000+ Sessions | 500+ Offers | 1,000+ Candidates | 100+ Countries
8 Answers
400+ Views
+5
Bain First-Round Interview Experience in the DACH Region, Especially at the Munich Office?
15
on Oct 22, 2026
DACH
8
300+
Top answer by
Ian
Coach
Ex-BCG | NYU Stern | MBB, Tech, & Strategy Coach | 5,000+ Sessions | 500+ Offers | 1,000+ Candidates | 100+ Countries
8 Answers
300+ Views
+5
Bain TestGorilla Video question?
17
on Oct 23, 2026
Asia
5
200+
Top answer by
Ashwin
Coach
Ex-Bain | Help 500+ aspirants secure MBB offers
5 Answers
200+ Views
N
+2
What to expect for a final round for a Capabilities & Insights Analyst role at McKinsey? How should I prepare for the TEI? How is this different from a BA final round?
23
on Oct 28, 2026
USA
7
200+
Top answer by
Ian
Coach
Ex-BCG | NYU Stern | MBB, Tech, & Strategy Coach | 5,000+ Sessions | 500+ Offers | 1,000+ Candidates | 100+ Countries
7 Answers
200+ Views
+4