How realistic are the modelling courses from WSO/WSP etc.

Ah, the age-old question of realism in financial modeling courses! Based on the highest ranked content on WSO, here's the scoop:

• Realism: The WSO financial modeling courses aim to mirror real-world practices. They are designed to achieve financial modeling mastery and often use case studies, like Nike, to teach the material. This approach is intended to provide a practical learning experience.

• Comparison: When compared to other providers like WSP, WSO courses have been crafted to offer improvements based on industry feedback. While they share the goal of financial modeling mastery with WSP, WSO courses are distinct offerings with their own unique instructors and content.

• Practical Use: In practice, models can vary from firm to firm. However, courses like those offered by WSO are created to give you a solid foundation. The models taught are typically reflective of the types of models used in the industry, but remember, each firm may have its own nuances.

• Finding Real Models: If you're looking for actual DCF or LBO models used in practice, that's a bit trickier. Due to confidentiality, it's rare for firms to share their actual models. However, you can sometimes find redacted versions in SEC filings, court documents, or educational resources. Just keep in mind that these are often sanitized to some extent.

If you're looking to get your hands on some practical DCF and LBO models, the WSO financial modeling courses are a great place to start. They'll give you a solid foundation, and from there, you can adapt and refine your skills as you gain experience in the field. Remember, the key is not just the model itself, but the understanding of the underlying accounting and finance principles that drive it. Keep swinging through those financial vines, and you'll get the hang of it!

Sources: Best Real Estate Modeling course? REFM? BIWS? WSP?, NEW Financial Modeling Training Courses, The Battle of Financial Modeling Courses in 2020, NEW Financial Modeling Training Courses, H/S/W Realistic?

Ah, the age-old question of realism in financial modeling courses! Based on the most helpful WSO content, the WSO financial modeling courses aim to achieve mastery through a case study framework, which is a common approach in the industry. They use real companies as examples, like Nike, to ensure that the learning is as practical and relevant as possible.

Now, while courses like those offered by WSO, WSP, and others are designed to be as realistic as possible, there's always going to be a bit of a gap between educational models and the ones used in the trenches of finance. This is because real-world models often need to be customized for the specific nuances of each deal or company.

If you're on the hunt for a DCF or LBO model that's been used in the real world, you might have to do a bit of networking. Try reaching out to professionals in the field or scouring through investment banking forums where sometimes practitioners share their experiences or resources. Just remember, due to confidentiality, it's rare to find actual models from live deals floating around.

And for the follow-up, "1" refers to the realism of the modeling courses and where to find practical DCF and LBO models. I've addressed this above, highlighting the educational intent of the courses and suggesting networking as a means to find more practice-oriented models. Keep in mind, the hands-on experience is a fantastic teacher, so don't shy away from creating your own models based on the principles you learn in these courses. It's a surefire way to swing through the financial jungle like a pro!

Sources: Best Real Estate Modeling course? REFM? BIWS? WSP?, NEW Financial Modeling Training Courses, NEW Financial Modeling Training Courses, The Battle of Financial Modeling Courses in 2020, H/S/W Realistic?