Case Interviews
How do I know whether I am improving after my first few mock cases?
I have done three live practice cases and still cannot tell whether I am improving. Is that normal at the beginning, and how should I use partners and feedback to make the practice useful?
Ian’s Answer
A few thoughts here:
You've only cased three times. Progress in casing comes slowly so you need to be patient. You may not see immediate progress across just a few cases.
Patience. Like learning a language, and instrument, etc., there will be ups and downs
Yes, you need a case partner. Reading cases is a pretty ineffective form of practice...please find good partners!
You need multiple case partners. By the end of this, you should have cased with dozens of people. This variety will make you more prepared.
Find partners similar to your level. This is just fair and proper etiquette!
Do your daily reading. Read the Economist, the FT, the WSJ, McKinsey Insights, and BCG Insights. This will build up your background knowledge
When stuck, get a coach. The problem with reading online content is that the written form of communication is far less effective than verbal (It's impossible to properly explain the theory/practice of market sizing, frameworking, objective-driven approaches, etc., in writing). A coach operates as your unlock (like any tutor/teacher/mentor/trainer)