How hard are SA technicals?
Hey! I’m currently an incoming msf student at Georgetown, and was wondering if all the MM/BB questions are on the guide and if I’m in a good position if I know 95% of the guide including the advanced m&a and lbo sections. The only questions i’m not sure on are a few advanced m&a/lbo questions like the advanced/extended goodwill formula and the reasoning behind it. Just wanted to see your guys’ thoughts on if this is enough prep or if i should do anything else since i’m aiming for MM’s and BB’s. I also have been doing some ibvine prep, but not sure if that’s the most useful. I’ve heard so many different things, so any insight would truly be appreciated, thank you!
Based on the most helpful WSO content, it seems you're in a strong position if you know 95% of the guide, including the advanced M&A and LBO sections. For MM and BB interviews, technicals can vary in difficulty, but mastering the guide's content, especially the advanced sections, should cover most of what you'll encounter.
Here are a few key points to consider:
Advanced M&A and LBO Questions: If you're struggling with specific advanced topics like the extended goodwill formula, it's worth revisiting those areas. These questions are less common but can appear in more technical interviews, especially at BBs or top MMs.
Thought Process Over Memorization: Many interviewers value your ability to explain the reasoning behind formulas and concepts rather than just reciting them. For example, understanding the logic behind goodwill adjustments or LBO mechanics is crucial.
Supplemental Prep: While the WSO guide is comprehensive, combining it with other resources like IBVine or live mock interviews can help solidify your knowledge and improve your confidence. Mock interviews, in particular, can simulate real scenarios and help you refine your delivery.
Behavioral Prep: Don't neglect the behavioral portion of interviews. Tailoring your answers to specific firms and demonstrating a clear understanding of their culture and values can set you apart.
MM vs. BB Interviews: MM interviews often emphasize technicals more heavily, while BBs may balance technical and fit questions. Be prepared for both.
If you feel confident with 95% of the guide and continue refining the areas you're less sure about, you should be well-prepared. Keep practicing and consider leveraging additional resources like the WSO IB Interview Bootcamp for a final polish. Good luck!
Sources: Guide for Investment Banking Full-Time Recruiting, Do "no-name" boutiques really open doors to MMs and BBs?, Why do MM IB shops get trashed on so much?, Never mind the hours, how do people stand the type of work in banking?, Is the Multi Manager HF Experience Worth It?
if you're trying to get your technical reps in, marginofalpha was pretty widely used in our MBA cohort for all the out of the guides questions
seems like shared question bank? think ive heard from first years bringing it up
I tried this website and its a complete joke. Most of the questions are wrong
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