6 Months until FT… Courses/Where to start w technicals

To maximize your preparation for FT IB recruiting, here's a structured approach based on the most helpful WSO content:

1. Courses to Consider:

   • The WSO Elite Modeling Package is highly recommended. It includes six courses covering financial statement modeling, DCFs, LBOs, M&A, and valuation techniques. This package is tailored for mastering technicals and is a favorite among candidates transitioning into IB.
   • Adventis Financial Modeling Certification is also a solid option, especially for building a strong foundation in financial modeling. However, WSO's package is more comprehensive for IB-specific prep.
   • Wall Street Prep (WSP) and Breaking Into Wall Street (BIWS) are also popular. BIWS is particularly strong for valuation and DCFs, while WSP is great for Excel and financial modeling.

2. Where to Start with Technicals:

   • Begin with accounting fundamentals and ensure you understand the three financial statements (Income Statement, Balance Sheet, and Cash Flow Statement) and how they link together.
   • Move on to valuation methods (DCF, comparable companies, precedent transactions) and financial modeling basics.
   • Use resources like the WSO IB Interview Course, which includes 7,548 technical questions across 469 IBs, to practice real-world questions.
   • Focus on conceptual understanding first, then practice with mock questions and modeling exercises.

3. Interview Prep Advice:

   • Behavioral Prep: Be ready to articulate your story—why IB, why your background, and how your skills translate. Use frameworks like STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for answering behavioral questions.
   • Mock Interviews: Schedule mock interviews with professionals or peers. WSO offers mock interview services with experienced pros.
   • Lessons Learned:
     • Overprepare for technicals. Even if some interviews are light on technicals, being overprepared will boost your confidence.
     • Tailor your answers to the bank's focus (e.g., MM banks may emphasize deal experience or specific industries).
     • Stay consistent with networking. Keep in touch with your contacts and update them on your progress.

With six months, a disciplined approach using the above resources will set you up for success. Good luck!

Sources: Guide for Investment Banking Full-Time Recruiting, Decided last minute to recruit for IB. What's the most efficient way to interview prep?, J.P Morgan Asset/Wealth Management Video Interview, Investment banking technical interview questions, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/what-is-the-best-book-to-get-ready-for-interviews-in-restructuring?customgpt=1