Technical Cramming
My first interview is in a month, and I spontaneously started recruiting IB. Been cramming technical prep for only 2 weeks with very little foundational knowledge. I can only confidently answer the Advanced/Basic accounting questions so far; that's only one section. I have developed a good framework to follow, but the only thing I am worried about is how much information I can possibly retain.
Keep it real...
am I screwed?
Based on the most helpful WSO content, you're not entirely screwed, but you need to act fast and smart. Here's a game plan:
Prioritize the Basics: Focus on mastering the core technicals that are most commonly asked. These include:
Use Proven Resources: Leverage guides like the WSO Technical Interview Guide, the 400 M&I question guide, and Rosenbaum & Pearl for M&A and LevFin-heavy content. These are highly recommended by others who have successfully prepped in a short time.
Practice Out Loud: Memorizing answers isn't enough. Practice explaining concepts clearly and concisely under pressure. Walk through scenarios like how a transaction impacts the financial statements.
Brainteasers and Mental Math: Don't neglect these. Even if you're strong on technicals, struggling with brainteasers or quick math can hurt your chances. Dedicate time daily to practice.
Mock Interviews: Simulate the interview environment with friends or mentors. This will help you identify weak spots and build confidence.
Stay Consistent: With a month to go, consistency is key. Dedicate daily blocks of time to technical prep, behavioral questions, and firm-specific research.
Remember, many candidates have been in your shoes and succeeded. It's about maximizing the time you have left and focusing on the essentials. Good luck!
Sources: An ex-Goldman Sachs insider’s 10 tips on how to sail through investment banking interviews, An ex-Goldman Sachs insider’s 10 tips on how to sail through investment banking interviews, Superday Advice From a Tired Interviewer, Guide for Investment Banking Full-Time Recruiting, I messed up...
Dude the 400 can be crammed in 48 hours your ass is fine lock in
@spongeboygoofy Needed to hear this, thanks bro
A month? What’s your definition of cramming lol
Et reprehenderit vero aliquid quam. Unde sit voluptatem fugit sed impedit. Consequuntur ex voluptas veniam ut placeat. Exercitationem doloremque illum ipsum aut asperiores et. Nisi blanditiis vel omnis qui. Provident voluptatem dolores voluptatem velit fuga.
Consequatur adipisci et qui minima occaecati. Qui recusandae nobis qui aut ut. Vel quia vitae quis fugit. Modi recusandae est ipsum ad rerum alias. Optio quidem esse tenetur aut doloremque amet. Laboriosam nemo enim et harum modi suscipit.
Quas maiores praesentium quo cumque molestias. Fuga est expedita quisquam nam. Sapiente in molestiae amet hic nihil inventore sint unde. Est tenetur consequuntur voluptates sit.
Et quia repellendus est qui maiores eos animi. Autem eos nulla officia corrupti. Non qui tenetur et autem laborum aut praesentium.
See All Comments - 100% Free
WSO depends on everyone being able to pitch in when they know something. Unlock with your email and get bonus: 6 financial modeling lessons free ($199 value)
or Unlock with your social account...