Those who find casing easier than IB technicals, why?
So i'm talking MBB casing vs IB technicals in prep for a SA/FT interview
I'm doing both right now, and I just find casing so much harder than learning off technicals, the different definitions and how they're linked
But I still haven't managed to crack casing, like it's just all been difficult and "how the hell is this the right answer, how the hell did you come up with this"
So I'd love to hear your thought processes, to those who find casing easier than IB technicals
Based on the most helpful WSO content, the difference in difficulty between MBB casing and IB technicals often comes down to the nature of the preparation and the skills required for each.
IB Technicals: Memorization and Repetition
IB technicals are often seen as more straightforward because they rely heavily on memorization and understanding of formulas, definitions, and processes. For example, mastering the three financial statements, accretion/dilution, or walking through a DCF can be achieved through consistent practice and rote learning. While technicals require precision, they are predictable, and the questions often follow a set pattern.
MBB Casing: Problem-Solving and Adaptability
Casing, on the other hand, is inherently more open-ended and requires a combination of structured thinking, creativity, and adaptability. It’s not just about getting the "right" answer but demonstrating your thought process, breaking down complex problems, and communicating effectively. The challenge lies in the fact that there’s no single formula to follow, and the interviewer evaluates multiple dimensions, such as your ability to think on your feet, prioritize data, and synthesize insights.
Behavioral Component in MBB
Another layer of difficulty in MBB interviews is the behavioral aspect, such as McKinsey’s PEI (Personal Experience Interview). This involves deep dives into your past experiences, where you’re grilled on every decision and action you took. It’s not just about telling a story but defending your choices under scrutiny, which can be mentally taxing.
Why Some Find Casing Easier
Those who find casing easier often excel in critical thinking, enjoy problem-solving, and are comfortable with ambiguity. They might also have a natural knack for breaking down problems into smaller components and thinking strategically. In contrast, IB technicals might feel monotonous or less engaging to them, as they are more about memorization than intellectual exploration.
Why Casing Feels Harder for You
If you’re struggling with casing, it might be due to a lack of familiarity with the structured frameworks or the pressure of thinking on the spot. Unlike technicals, where you can rely on a set playbook, casing requires you to adapt your approach to each unique problem. It’s a skill that improves with practice, especially by working through mock cases, analyzing sample solutions, and receiving feedback.
To improve your casing skills, consider focusing on: - Practicing frameworks and learning how to adapt them to different scenarios. - Engaging in mock interviews with peers or mentors to simulate real-time problem-solving. - Reviewing case solutions to understand how others approach and structure their answers.
Ultimately, the difficulty of MBB casing versus IB technicals depends on your personal strengths and preferences. With consistent effort, you can improve in both areas!
Sources: What’s Harder? MBB or EB/BB, Consulting Recruiting 2023, What’s Harder? MBB or EB/BB, Case study interview for MBB consulting - 24 of my best tips on how to get in
Really the only people who would find casing naturally easier are those who have read tons of business case studies or have lots of exposure to high level corporate decision making.
They’re both difficult in their own right, but casing is more like mock trial, in which you’ll only get better the more you practice being “put on the spot” and coming up with creative solutions in the moment, whereas IB technicals can be learned alone at your desk over the course of a few weeks. If you spent just as much time in live mock cases as you did actually studying IB technicals, you would pick up casing even quicker, but everyone just wants to watch youtube videos instead, which isn’t even 50% as effective.
Best course of action is to read as many cases and watch as many videos as possible at first, but pause and actually try to create your own framework. Once you’ve done this enough to the point you can create a framework for any case you come across, it’s then time to find partners to case with. Do this atleast 3 times a day and you’ll realize that, while each case is bespoke in potential problems and solutions, the quantitative elements are broadly the same as any 10 cases you’ve seen before, and the conceptual problems are just a matter of being able to brainstorm on the spot without freezing up (atleast for UG recruiting, MBA recruiting may look for more of an industry-specific solution).
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