Hi, I’ve been told one of my upcoming assessments will include a case study, but I’m not sure if it will be a financial modeling type or a decision-making presentation. Does anyone know the difference in structure between decision-making cases (quick judgments) and modeling ones (take-home with valuation)? Would love an example! Thanks!
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Both types are common, and knowing the difference helps prep better. Here's a quick breakdown:
1. Modeling case (take-home):
- Goal: Build a simplified LBO or valuation model, then write an investment memo or slides
- Structure: You’ll get a CIM or info pack, financials, maybe assumptions
- Deliverable: Excel model + memo or deck
- Focus: Numbers, returns, assumptions, sensitivities, investment thesis
Example:
“You’re evaluating a €150m EV buyout of a B2B SaaS firm. Build a 5-year LBO model and write a 5-slide investment recommendation.”
2. Decision-making case (live or timed):
- Goal: Test structured thinking under time pressure, not modeling
- Structure: Short packet (market info, company background), you’re asked to make a recommendation
- Deliverable: Verbal pitch or 3–5 slides in 1–2 hours
- Focus: Commercial judgment, priorities, strategic thinking
Example:
“A fund is considering acquiring a chain of dental clinics. What info would you need to assess? What are red flags? Would you proceed?”
Tip:
If in doubt, ask HR whether a laptop is needed or if Excel is involved — that usually clarifies which type it is.
Hi there,
That’s a great question.
Both formats test very different skills. A decision-making case is usually shorter and focused on structuring your thoughts and justifying trade-offs under time pressure, while a modeling case is often take-home and tests your technical ability to build or interpret a valuation or forecast.
If you want to get a feel for both types, check out the finance case examples and modeling guides here on the platform.
Good luck with your prep!
Rita
Hi there,
That’s a solid question.
In my experience, modeling and strategy case studies test very different things. Strategy/decision cases tend to be tighter, meant to see how you frame issues, structure trade-offs, and defend a recommendation under time pressure. Modeling cases (often take-home) dig into your technical chops - building forecasts, valuations, sensitivity analyses, etc.
If you want my tip: practice both types so you’re ready. For strategy cases, work on issue trees and frameworks. For modeling ones, build simple Excel models from scratch and interpret the outputs.
Good luck with your prep!