Schedule mock interviews on the Meeting Board, join the latest community discussions in our Consulting Q&A and find like-minded Interview Partners to connect and practice with!
Back to overview

Question about McKinsey Redrock calculator?

So this onscreen calculator seems like a waste of screen space. If I just calculate things on paper and input the numbers, will I be penalized on “process score”? It just seems impossible to do the calculations on their onscreen calculator while being fast enough to finish the test.

3
600+
8
Be the first to answer!
Nobody has responded to this question yet.
Top answer
Ian
Coach
on Sep 27, 2023
Top US BCG / MBB Coach - 5,000 sessions |Tech, Platinion, Big 4 | 9/9 personal interviews passed | 95% candidate success

Hi there,

If it were me? I would do it all on paper, BUT quickly input key/final calcs into the on screen calculator.

That's for 2 reasons:

  1. To show the logic/thinking (so they can see)
  2. To have the #s as options to drag-and-drop as the test progresses
on Sep 27, 2023
#1 Coach for Sessions (4.500+) | 1.500+ 5-Star Reviews | Proven Success: ➡ interviewoffers.com | Ex BCG | 10Y+ Coaching

Hi there,

Q: If I just calculate things on paper and input the numbers, will I be penalized on “process score”?

Unless you are running out of time, I would recommend using the calculator within the game. This because:

  1. Using only an external one might impact the process score.
  2. There could be issues with the approximation of the numbers if you use an external one.

Good luck!

Francesco

on Sep 27, 2023
#1 rated McKinsey Coach

Hi there!

Honestly, it's quite unclear how using the internal calculator contributes to the process score. If you're good on time, it's best to use it, otherwise, manage time by alternating with the external one. 

Don't overthink it though. At the end of the day, you can only cognitively control so many things at the same time, so you don't want too much of your focus to go on this. 

Best,
Cristian

———————————————

Practicing for interviews? Check out my latest case based on a first-round MBB interview >>> SoyTechnologies  

Similar Questions
Consulting
Do consultants use AI for PowerPoint or excel or anywhere in the Process??
on Aug 24, 2024
Global
7
2.4k
Top answer by
Nilay
Coach
Former McKinsey Sr Engagement Manager | Trained McKinsey interviewer (100+ interviews, 500+ coaching sessions)
50
7 Answers
2.4k Views
+4
Consulting
Can I apply to two different positions at McKinsey one after another?
on Jun 11, 2024
Global
7
1.9k
Top answer by
Yousef
Coach
I make it easy for you to master case interviews! (ex-McKinsey |Stanford University | Imperial College London | ex-P&G)
35
7 Answers
1.9k Views
+4
Consulting
MBB Internship: Is less work better?
on May 03, 2025
Global
7
200+
Top answer by
1st session -50% | Ex-McKinsey| Offical McKinsey Case Coach | +250 coaching sessions
12
7 Answers
200+ Views
+4
How likely are you to recommend us to a friend or fellow student?
0 = Not likely
10 = Very likely
Thanks for your feedback! Your opinion helps us make PrepLounge even better.