Got a case study to lay out models and research report for asso position. HELPP

I recently got a take home case study from SS analyst asking to conduct financial models and research report for a specific company. This is the only instruction he gave out and I'm wondering what are some of the questions I should ask beforehand, as well as any tips for the case study?

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Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some key questions you should ask beforehand and tips for handling your case study:

Questions to Ask:

  1. Clarification on Scope:

    • What specific financial models are expected (e.g., DCF, LBO, Comps)?
    • Are there any particular aspects of the company or industry that should be focused on?
  2. Data Sources:

    • Will you be provided with any specific data or should you source it independently?
    • Are there any preferred databases or sources for the data?
  3. Report Structure:

    • Is there a preferred format or structure for the research report?
    • How detailed should the report be (e.g., executive summary, detailed analysis, appendices)?
  4. Assumptions:

    • Are there any assumptions you should make regarding market conditions, company performance, etc.?
    • Should you consider any specific scenarios or sensitivities in your analysis?
  5. Presentation:

    • Will there be a presentation component where you need to present your findings?
    • If so, how long should the presentation be and who will be the audience?

Tips for the Case Study:

  1. Logical Thinking:

    • Create a logical, structured approach to answering the case questions.
    • Develop an issue tree to identify key topics and ensure your framework is relevant to the case facts.
  2. Slide Organization:

    • Organize your slides by key questions they help answer. Create piles for each question and further segment them into primary and backup slides.
    • Ensure the slides follow a logical flow that mirrors your executive summary.
  3. Executive Summary:

    • Create a one-page executive summary that highlights the key points of your analysis.
    • Make sure the summary is concise and aligns with the structure of your deck.
  4. Next Steps Slide:

    • Develop a next steps slide proposing additional analyses or actions to validate your findings.
    • Use action verbs and ensure the steps are actionable and reasonable.
  5. Math Ability:

    • Be prepared to demonstrate your math skills, similar to traditional case interviews.
    • Ensure your calculations are accurate and clearly presented.
  6. Practice:

    • Practice creating financial models and writing investment memos using recent S-1 filings or old CIMs.
    • Reach out to trusted analysts for old case studies to practice with.
  7. Presentation Skills:

    • Be ready to present your findings and defend your assumptions during a debrief session.
    • Practice your presentation to ensure clarity and confidence.

By asking these questions and following these tips, you'll be better prepared to tackle your case study effectively. Good luck!

Sources: Case study interview for MBB consulting - 24 of my best tips on how to get in, Case study interview for MBB consulting - 24 of my best tips on how to get in, My Path - MBA Banking Associate to PE, Q&A: Former Strategy& associate

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