how to (REALLY) study for techs?

To truly master technicals and boost your confidence, here's a structured approach based on the most helpful WSO content:

1. Master the Core Guides

• Stick to the BIWS and 400 Questions guides as your foundation. These are industry-standard resources and cover the majority of what you'll encounter in interviews.
• However, don’t just memorize answers. Go one layer deeper by understanding the "why" behind each concept. For example, if you're studying DCF, ensure you can explain why each input matters and how changes affect the output.

2. Expand Beyond the Basics

• Incorporate other guides like Rosenbaum & Pearl (Investment Banking) or advanced resources like the WSO Technical Guide. These often include more nuanced or less common questions that can help you prepare for curveballs.
• Use question banks like IBVine or other niche resources to test your knowledge. Missing questions is part of the learning process—analyze your mistakes and focus on the underlying concepts.

3. Practice Out Loud

• As highlighted in WSO threads, practice explaining answers verbally. This helps you stay composed under pressure and ensures you can articulate your thoughts clearly during interviews.
• Walk through scenarios like how the three financial statements interact during specific transactions. This is a common test of your understanding.

4. Strengthen Business Acumen

• If you feel your business intuition is weak, start reading financial news (e.g., WSJ, Bloomberg) and case studies. Understanding real-world applications of technical concepts will make you more confident.
• Study valuation and accounting principles in depth. For example, know how to handle accretion/dilution, merger math, and advanced accounting topics like NOLs or PP&E.

5. Simulate Real Interviews

• Mock interviews are invaluable. Find a mentor, friend, or use WSO’s mock interview services to simulate the pressure of a real interview.
• Time yourself and practice answering questions concisely and confidently.

6. Focus on Mental Math and Brainteasers

• Many interviews include brainteasers or mental math. Practice these regularly to avoid being caught off guard. Resources like GMAT math prep or apps like Mental Math Trainer can help.

7. Iterate and Review

• After each practice session, review your weak areas. Create a cheat sheet of concepts or questions you struggle with and revisit them frequently.

8. Stay Consistent

• Consistency is key. Dedicate time daily to technical prep, even if it’s just 30 minutes of reviewing concepts or practicing questions.

Remember, the goal isn’t just to memorize answers but to develop a deep understanding of the material. With consistent effort and the right resources, you’ll be ready to tackle any technical question thrown your way. Keep grinding—you’ve got this!

Sources: Superday Advice From a Tired Interviewer, An ex-Goldman Sachs insider’s 10 tips on how to sail through investment banking interviews, Superday Advice From a Tired Interviewer, The 24 Interview Lessons I Learned on the Way to Getting My First Full Time Job, The 24 Interview Lessons I Learned on the Way to Getting My First Full Time Job