Assuming you are referring to an interviewee-led case, you're right that you should take a hypothesis driven approach with a clear rationale. Once you've shared your hypothesis, you can then follow up by asking if there is any relevant data on xyz or laying down an approach around how you would test xyz.

For interviewer-led cases, particularly McKinsey, then it's an opportunity for your to point out some of the interdependencies in your structure as well as propose a hypothesis on where you might want to tackle first.

Ask them if your structure makes sense to them. If they agree say something along the lines of: "Unless you have a different suggestion or preference, I'd start with...." And begin your case!

Hi A,

Yes, such an approach would be completely fine.

The best way to express this can be: "Unless you suggest otherwise, I would like to start off with xyz". You say that to the interviewer and then let him react.

Hope this helps,

GB

(edited)

Hi there,

You can do two things:

1. Ask if the interviewer is aligned with the structure proposed
2. Suggest to start cracking the case with the first point in your structure (in the cadidate-led interviews, if it's interviewer-led, he/she will ask you what to do!)

I hope this helps!

Mehdi

'Is there anything you would like me to deep-dive on first?, if not let's start from the top'

Best,

Udayan

As the others say, just jump right into it! And...have a reason for what you're picking. So....

"I'd like to start with area x, because I think it's the most likely for x reason...do we have any information on y?"