Confused about PE Recruiting

Hi all,

i am confused on several items about PE recruiting. If anyone could help, would appreciate it a lot!

1) when people say case study, do they mean Paper LBOs, model exams or an actual case study with an investment thesis on a company they chose? How am I supposed to do that in like 2 hours?

2) model exams, how the hell do people build a full 3 statement model with all the bells and whistles in 2 hours?

3) in an one hour exam, what is the biggest difference?

4) how much will me being a non-target really hinder me in landing interview?

5) should I wait for on cycle next year? If so, can I start in 2025 or would have to wait for 2026?

6) should i network with PE associates?

thank you!