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The amount of time you need to prepare depends on your current level of familiarity with case interviews and Personal Experience Interviews (PEI). Here’s a breakdown of timelines and focus areas based on your level of preparedness:
Beginner - Limited exposure to cases and PEI, need to work on fundamentals
Timeline: ~12-16 weeks of preparation
If you’re new to consulting interviews, the focus should be on building a strong foundation in both case interviews and PEI.
Fundamentals of Case Interviews
Understanding what is assessed during case interviews.
Learning how to structure problems effectively.
Developing brainstorming techniques to generate creative and logical ideas.
Preparing for quantitative questions, including mental math and data interpretation.
Fundamentals of PEI
Grasping what interviewers assess during PEI.
Understanding what makes a good story and common pitfalls to avoid.
Selecting impactful stories from past experiences.
Structuring your stories for maximum clarity and engagement.
Intermediate -Moderate exposure to cases and PEI, solid fundamentals
Timeline: ~3-5 weeks of preparation
If you already have a foundation, your focus should shift to refining skills and diving deeper into specific concepts.
In-Depth Case Concepts
Breaking down the specifics of structuring to handle more complex cases.
Practicing “Top-down” communication for clear and concise answers.
Learning to “drive” the case by proactively guiding the discussion.
Deepening your comprehension of quantitative questions to improve speed and accuracy.
Refining PEI Stories
Identifying the best-fit examples for common PEI questions.
Choosing the optimal structure for your stories to align with interview expectations.
Streamlining your stories for clarity and maximum impact.
Preparing for follow-up questions and challenges from interviewers.
Advanced -Advanced proficiency in case and PEI preparations
Timeline: ~1-2 weeks of preparation
If you’re highly experienced, your focus should be on perfecting techniques and addressing high-level challenges.
Advanced Case Concepts
Elevating structuring skills from good to exceptional for complex problems.
Refining “Top-down” communication to ensure precision and confidence.
Tackling unconventional and challenging quantitative questions to stand out.
Refining PEI Stories
Further tailoring your stories for maximum alignment with firm values.
Preparing to handle unexpected or curveball questions with poise.
Final Thoughts
Regardless of your starting point, a structured preparation plan tailored to your level of experience can significantly increase your chances of success. By focusing on the right areas at each stage, you can maximize your progress and walk into your consulting interview with confidence.
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