Case study typos
To what extent are typos allowed on case studies? I accidentally left a couple words missing and then on the comp table had a single row of data that was irrelevant due to copying the template from another sheet. Was running low on sleep so made some silly mistakes.
Fwiw I heard back the next day and was asked to interview with a principal for the next step (previous interviews were with VPs) despite being told initially that there would be a meet the team round after the case.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, minor typos or small errors in case studies, like missing words or irrelevant data in a comp table, are generally not deal-breakers, especially if the overall quality of your work is strong. Firms understand that candidates are often under pressure and may make small mistakes. However, the extent to which these errors are overlooked depends on the firm and the role.
Your situation seems promising since you were invited to interview with a principal, which suggests that your case study performance was strong enough to outweigh the minor mistakes. This aligns with insights shared in WSO threads, where candidates have noted that while perfection is ideal, firms often prioritize the depth of analysis, logical thinking, and actionable insights over minor formatting or data errors.
That said, always aim to minimize such mistakes by double-checking your work, even under time constraints. It’s also a good idea to acknowledge and correct errors during discussions if they come up, as this demonstrates accountability and professionalism.
Sources: Case study interview for MBB consulting - 24 of my best tips on how to get in, Ways of Underperformance - and how to avoid them (Part 1), How would you have responded? Hypothetical Pitchbook Error Scenario, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/4-big-picture-things-i-shouldve-known-before-my-ib-internship-covid-19?customgpt=1, Practicing attention to detail
bump anyone else besides the bot that had a similar issue?
Not a big deal as long as the mechanics are fine
yeah model balances, numbers look fine, etc.
Generally I agree but my previous fund used to sing MBA intern candidates ruthlessly for formatting misses. Some cultures are just nitpicky
Likely firm dependent, but I completed mine with a few minor mistakes after a few sleepless nights and it was nbd. One of the partners pointed something out and I was just honest and about focusing on getting the mechanics right and prioritizing it being true vs perfect. If it comes up, just be honest. If it doesn’t, even better.
Similarly, we focus more on the quality of the model than the write-up, given candidates often run out of time by the time they get to the prose portion of our test.
just as an update, OP here.. the typos weren't brought up and the principal generally said the case feedback was great and just focused on fit type questions
In my experience as well, funds don't care as much about getting the 100% perfect answer as long as your assumptions + mechanics are solid. Model tests are more of a "check the box" vs. a differentiating factor in interviews
Soluta culpa consequatur consequuntur suscipit voluptate aut quibusdam. Dolores harum et magnam incidunt deleniti. Suscipit quia tempore ut ex. Ullam ut culpa rerum voluptatem possimus ullam delectus.
Aperiam suscipit consequatur delectus nisi et. Quia a est adipisci deserunt est nobis deserunt. Temporibus ullam expedita consequatur deserunt assumenda labore. Suscipit nulla ad atque asperiores sit qui. Nobis ab suscipit corporis aut.
Mollitia error magni tempora tempore officia. Earum quos autem nihil pariatur alias neque nobis. Suscipit quis autem hic enim voluptates. Distinctio voluptas perferendis praesentium. Dolores quia vel delectus. Ea consequatur ratione qui. Quas consequuntur sunt quis impedit nam quam.
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...