Consulting Q&A – Ask Questions about Your Career

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Improved structuring skills to be less generic, however now they are too confusing

case structure Framework strategic plan Structure
Most recent answer on Feb 29, 2024
The best answer (on Feb 09, 2024) is from:
Gero
Expert
Ex-BCG │200+ Interviews & Interview Coachings @ BCG │ 20+ candidates coached into MBB │WHU/LSE/Nova │ Teacher & Trainer
Gero
Expert
gave the best answer on Feb 09, 2024
Ex-BCG │200+ Interviews & Interview Coachings @ BCG │ 20+ candidates coached into MBB │WHU/LSE/Nova │ Teacher & Trainer
Hi there, First of all, great that you have overcome using memorized frameworks. Let's see what might be the issue based on your description.  I hypothesize that you are a bottom-up thinker who comes up with numerous ve ... (read entire answer)
4
Answers
198
Views
59
Total Upvotes
on Feb 29, 2024 on Feb 29, 2024
Last Activity

Profitability framework

case structure Framework profitability
Most recent answer on Feb 29, 2024
The best answer (on Feb 10, 2024) is from:
Ian
Expert
#1 BCG coach | MBB | Tier 2 | Digital, Tech, Platinion | 100% personal success rate (8/8) | 95% candidate success rate
Ian
Expert
gave the best answer on Feb 10, 2024
#1 BCG coach | MBB | Tier 2 | Digital, Tech, Platinion | 100% personal success rate (8/8) | 95% candidate success rate
Noooooooooooooooooooooo. Thank you for this Q&A, as it's SUCH a good example of what NOT to do. Every project has root-cause analysis. Every project has solutions. Every profit project has revenue/cost. So a client ... (read entire answer)
4
Answers
212
Views
37
Total Upvotes
on Feb 29, 2024 on Feb 29, 2024
Last Activity

E-commerce Case

approaching a case Bain BCG Case Interview CV Ecommerce Framework I'm preparing to McK coming next week Imbellus networking Resume
Most recent answer on Jan 21, 2024
The best answer (on Jan 19, 2024) is from:
Cristian
Expert
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach
Cristian
Expert
gave the best answer on Jan 19, 2024
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach
Hi Iram,  Happy to provide a perspective. 1. What are the possible causes and the Solutions? What kind of structure/framework that I can use? One way to look at it is to start from the clear, quantifiable target they ha ... (read entire answer)
2
Answers
217
Views
23
Total Upvotes
on Jan 21, 2024 on Jan 21, 2024
Last Activity

Stuck at Math/Quantitative and What to Calculate in Consulting Cases

BCG McKinsey and Bain consulting Framework frameworks mckinsey Math problem Math Skills Required in Case Interviews quantitative Quantitative skills
Most recent answer on Jan 15, 2024
The best answer (on Jan 12, 2024) is from:
LK
Expert
50% off
LK
Expert
gave the best answer on Jan 12, 2024
50% off
Hi Anonymous, From what you described, it seems like you are having issues to determine the central question you are solving for.  If you agree, a best practice is to clarify the question / issue with the interviewer ea ... (read entire answer)
7
Answers
193
Views
67
Total Upvotes
on Jan 15, 2024 on Jan 15, 2024
Last Activity

When I am structuring the case, I struggled and get lost.

Case structure and frameworks Case Structuring case types Cases Framework insights MBB Practice cases solution structuring
Most recent answer on Dec 31, 2023
The best answer (on Dec 10, 2023) is from:
Lorenzo
Expert
University of St.Gallen graduate | Learn to think like a Consultant | Personalized prep | CV review
Lorenzo
Expert
gave the best answer on Dec 10, 2023
University of St.Gallen graduate | Learn to think like a Consultant | Personalized prep | CV review
It's not uncommon to feel overwhelmed or forget frameworks when faced with a case interview, especially when the pressure is on. Here are some strategies to help you overcome this challenge: Practice Regularly: Regular ... (read entire answer)
12
Answers
438
Views
124
Total Upvotes
on Dec 31, 2023 on Dec 31, 2023
Last Activity

Investment Case Framework

Framework Investment Opportunity cost Synergies
Most recent answer on Dec 16, 2023
The best answer (on Dec 11, 2023) is from:
Lorenzo
Expert
University of St.Gallen graduate | Learn to think like a Consultant | Personalized prep | CV review
Lorenzo
Expert
gave the best answer on Dec 11, 2023
University of St.Gallen graduate | Learn to think like a Consultant | Personalized prep | CV review
1. Analysis of Revenue and Cost Synergies: Placement: Typically, the analysis of revenue and cost synergies would be a crucial part of the overall financial analysis in an investment scenario. This could be part of the d ... (read entire answer)
7
Answers
273
Views
79
Total Upvotes
on Dec 16, 2023 on Dec 16, 2023
Last Activity

Which strategy do you think is best regarding the prompt and clarifying questions?

Clarifying questions Framework Notes
Most recent answer on Nov 26, 2023
The best answer (on Nov 25, 2023) is from:
Francesco
Expert
#1 Coach for Sessions (4.000+) | 1.500+ 5-Star Reviews | Proven Success (➡ InterviewOffers.com) | Ex BCG | 10Y+ Coaching
Francesco
Expert
gave the best answer on Nov 25, 2023
#1 Coach for Sessions (4.000+) | 1.500+ 5-Star Reviews | Proven Success (➡ InterviewOffers.com) | Ex BCG | 10Y+ Coaching
Hi Yuxi, Q: I would like to know your opinions, which one do you agree more with? I would actually not recommend either of the two. What I would recommend is to: Repeat the prompt Ask clarifying questions useful for you ... (read entire answer)
7
Answers
401
Views
65
Total Upvotes
on Nov 26, 2023 on Nov 26, 2023
Last Activity

What are the most appropriate frameworks for pricing cases?

Case Case Interview Framework McKinsey pricing pricing strategy profitability
Most recent answer on Nov 10, 2023
The best answer (on Jul 21, 2017) is from:
Vlad
Expert
McKinsey / Accenture Alum / Got all BIG3 offers / Harvard Business School
Vlad
Expert
gave the best answer on Jul 21, 2017
McKinsey / Accenture Alum / Got all BIG3 offers / Harvard Business School
Hi, The general framework for pricing is: Cost base - Value based - Competitor based - pricing strategy 1. Cost based - you actually check what are the costs and apply standard industry / target markup 2. Value ba ... (read entire answer)
11
Answers
38.4 k
Views
89
Total Upvotes
on Nov 10, 2023 on Nov 10, 2023
Last Activity

What's the best way to structure a revenue growth case?

Case case study Framework growth growth strategy issue tree Revenue analysis revenues Structure
Most recent answer on Nov 10, 2023
The best answer (on Feb 16, 2018) is from:
Vlad
Expert
McKinsey / Accenture Alum / Got all BIG3 offers / Harvard Business School
Vlad
Expert
gave the best answer on Feb 16, 2018
McKinsey / Accenture Alum / Got all BIG3 offers / Harvard Business School
Hi! It depends very much on the industry. In some cases (Growth strategy) I will use a broad structure, in others (e.g. “how to increase the excessive luggage revenues for an Airline”) I will use P, Q and the Process. ... (read entire answer)
9
Answers
41.4 k
Views
147
Total Upvotes
on Nov 10, 2023 on Nov 10, 2023
Last Activity

MECE depending on the point of view

Case structure and frameworks Framework MECE
Most recent answer on Nov 10, 2023
The best answer (on Nov 06, 2023) is from:
Moritz
Expert
ex-McKinsey EM & Interviewer | 7/8 offer rate for 4+ sessions | 90min sessions with FREE exercises & videos
Moritz
Expert
gave the best answer on Nov 06, 2023
ex-McKinsey EM & Interviewer | 7/8 offer rate for 4+ sessions | 90min sessions with FREE exercises & videos
Hi there, First of all, it's ALWAYS possible to make a structure perfectly MECE but shouldn’t always be your goal. In fact, most people apply MECE in the wrong way. The concept was famously invented by a McKinsey consul ... (read entire answer)
6
Answers
410
Views
43
Total Upvotes
on Nov 10, 2023 on Nov 10, 2023
Last Activity

Decision framework to choose among McKinsey <-> BCG <-> Bain?

Bain & Company BCG Decision Framework MBB McKinsey selection criteria
Most recent answer on Oct 26, 2023
The best answer (on Jun 03, 2022) is from:
Sidi
Expert
McKinsey Senior EM & BCG Consultant | Interviewer at McK & BCG for 7 years | Coached 350+ candidates secure MBB offers
Sidi
Expert
gave the best answer on Jun 03, 2022
McKinsey Senior EM & BCG Consultant | Interviewer at McK & BCG for 7 years | Coached 350+ candidates secure MBB offers
Hi! I started my consulting career at BCG in Germany, got promoted to Senior Consultant, and later switched to McKinsey to do work in several emerging markets. I have a combined 7.5 years experience in both firms and he ... (read entire answer)
10
Answers
7.3 k
Views
43
Total Upvotes
on Oct 26, 2023 on Oct 26, 2023
Last Activity

In an issue tree for profitability framework, where do you factor in questions about market etc.?

Framework issue tree market questions MECE profitability profitability analysis
Most recent answer on Oct 26, 2023
The best answer (on Jun 03, 2022) is from:
Sidi
Expert
McKinsey Senior EM & BCG Consultant | Interviewer at McK & BCG for 7 years | Coached 350+ candidates secure MBB offers
Sidi
Expert
gave the best answer on Jun 03, 2022
McKinsey Senior EM & BCG Consultant | Interviewer at McK & BCG for 7 years | Coached 350+ candidates secure MBB offers
Hi Kay, this is indeed one of the fundamental things that you need to learn in order to rigorously disaggregate the value drivers of a business. The driver tree allows you to identify the numerical drivers and sub-drive ... (read entire answer)
2
Answers
5.8 k
Views
31
Total Upvotes
on Oct 26, 2023 on Oct 26, 2023
Last Activity

Bad Experience with Victor Cheng Case Interview Material - alternatives?

alternatives case interview preparation Case Material Creative Framework preplounge Victor Cheng
Most recent answer on Oct 26, 2023
The best answer (on Jun 09, 2018) is from:
Vlad
Expert
McKinsey / Accenture Alum / Got all BIG3 offers / Harvard Business School
Vlad
Expert
gave the best answer on Jun 09, 2018
McKinsey / Accenture Alum / Got all BIG3 offers / Harvard Business School
Hi, Viktor Cheng material is good, however, it is definitely not enough to pass the interview. I recommend rereading and relistening Cheng every 10-15 live cases you do - you'll find many new things there. In additi ... (read entire answer)
15
Answers
89.4 k
Views
231
Total Upvotes
on Oct 26, 2023 on Oct 26, 2023
Last Activity

Prep Books

Books coaching Framework preparation
Most recent answer on Oct 08, 2023
The best answer (on Oct 01, 2023) is from:
Irene
Expert
BCG consultant & MIT MBA | Supported 20+ students for MBBs or MBA
Irene
Expert
gave the best answer on Oct 01, 2023
BCG consultant & MIT MBA | Supported 20+ students for MBBs or MBA
Hi John, I also prepared for BCG interviews in about three months (four years ago, I am feeling old ahah), and like you, I started with the same books. After reading them, I was in a bit of a dilemma, not sure which one ... (read entire answer)
8
Answers
286
Views
4
Total Upvotes
on Oct 08, 2023 on Oct 08, 2023
Last Activity

Struggling with recall in framework and brainstorm structuring

brainstorming Framework
Most recent answer on Sep 30, 2023
The best answer (on Sep 30, 2023) is from:
Frederic
Expert
ex Jr. Partner McKinsey |Senior Interviewer| Real Feedback & Free Homework between sessions|Harvard Coach|10+ Experience
Frederic
Expert
gave the best answer on Sep 30, 2023
ex Jr. Partner McKinsey |Senior Interviewer| Real Feedback & Free Homework between sessions|Harvard Coach|10+ Experience
Hey! I completely understand your concern, and it's not uncommon for aspiring consultants to face this challenge when preparing for case interviews. Building a robust framework and generating insightful ideas during a l ... (read entire answer)
8
Answers
399
Views
32
Total Upvotes
on Sep 30, 2023 on Sep 30, 2023
Last Activity

How to structure a framework for investment cases? (go or no-go decision)

Framework Investment
Most recent answer on Sep 01, 2023
Anonymous gave the best answer on Mar 27, 2018
Hey anonymous, This framework seems quite interesting for approaching such problem, I would add two dimensions throughout your points: 1) include regulations and other barriers to entry/expansion 3) analysis on ke ... (read entire answer)
4
Answers
16.3 k
Views
18
Total Upvotes
on Sep 01, 2023 on Sep 01, 2023
Last Activity

Bcg finance formulas

BCG Case Interview case math Case structure and frameworks Finance formula Framework Market sizing math McKinsey quants
Most recent answer on Jul 27, 2023
The best answer (on Mar 18, 2018) is from:
Vlad
Expert
McKinsey / Accenture Alum / Got all BIG3 offers / Harvard Business School
Vlad
Expert
gave the best answer on Mar 18, 2018
McKinsey / Accenture Alum / Got all BIG3 offers / Harvard Business School
Hi, Here is a set of things you need to know: 1) Math and formulas: Interest rates calculations Compound margin NPV using the Rule of 72, Perpetuity CAGR using the Rule of 72 Currencies exchange calculat ... (read entire answer)
9
Answers
34.5 k
Views
64
Total Upvotes
on Jul 27, 2023 on Jul 27, 2023
Last Activity

Estimate number of suit tailor shops (NYC)- Market Sizing

BCG Case Interview BCG McKinsey and Bain Framework Market sizing Math problem McKinsey & Company numerical
Most recent answer on Jul 20, 2023
The best answer (on Jul 15, 2023) is from:
Ian
Expert
#1 BCG coach | MBB | Tier 2 | Digital, Tech, Platinion | 100% personal success rate (8/8) | 95% candidate success rate
Ian
Expert
gave the best answer on Jul 15, 2023
#1 BCG coach | MBB | Tier 2 | Digital, Tech, Platinion | 100% personal success rate (8/8) | 95% candidate success rate
Hi there, You'll learn a lot more from this by trying it out yourself first! Why don't you post your approach here and we can provide commentary? How to approach market sizing It's very simple: Do the approach the is th ... (read entire answer)
4
Answers
379
Views
41
Total Upvotes
on Jul 20, 2023 on Jul 20, 2023
Last Activity

When a prompt asks you two things

Framework
Most recent answer on Jul 07, 2023
The best answer (on Jul 03, 2023) is from:
Andi
Expert
BCG 1st & Final Round interviewer | Personalized prep with >95% success rate | 7yrs coaching | #1 for Experienced Hires
Andi
Expert
gave the best answer on Jul 03, 2023
BCG 1st & Final Round interviewer | Personalized prep with >95% success rate | 7yrs coaching | #1 for Experienced Hires
Hi there,  in such case, suggest you use 2 structures in 2 sequential steps (= your approach). Don't try to force-fit both questions into 1 framework / issue tree.  Analysis - what's going on? Isolate the problem (where ... (read entire answer)
9
Answers
384
Views
42
Total Upvotes
on Jul 07, 2023 on Jul 07, 2023
Last Activity

More depth

A.T. Kearney Feedback Framework McKinsey Structure
Most recent answer on May 24, 2023
The best answer (on May 20, 2023) is from:
Ian
Expert
#1 BCG coach | MBB | Tier 2 | Digital, Tech, Platinion | 100% personal success rate (8/8) | 95% candidate success rate
Ian
Expert
gave the best answer on May 20, 2023
#1 BCG coach | MBB | Tier 2 | Digital, Tech, Platinion | 100% personal success rate (8/8) | 95% candidate success rate
Hi there, Honestly structuring is the hardest thing to solve on your own. I highly highly recommend a coach because there's nowhere else you can get direct feedback/advice based on your specific frameworking/structuring ... (read entire answer)
6
Answers
777
Views
68
Total Upvotes
on May 24, 2023 on May 24, 2023
Last Activity
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