How long does PF 1-5 take?
Looking to get started. I’ve slotted roughly 2 weeks of grinding to get through levels 1-5. My goal is to be proficient in 1-5 from scratch. Is that enough time?
Looking to get started. I’ve slotted roughly 2 weeks of grinding to get through levels 1-5. My goal is to be proficient in 1-5 from scratch. Is that enough time?
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Based on the WSO Dataset, the time required to complete the first five courses in the new financial modeling training series can vary significantly depending on your prior experience and the pace at which you learn. Here's a breakdown of the estimated time for each course:
If you dedicate about 30 hours per week, as you mentioned, you could realistically complete these courses in about two weeks. This estimate assumes a moderate familiarity with the material and includes time for repeating and drilling exercises. If you are starting from scratch and need to listen to lessons multiple times, it might take a bit longer, but your goal of two weeks of intensive study should be sufficient to gain proficiency in these areas.
Sources: NEW Financial Modeling Training Courses, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/private-equity/a-guide-on-how-to-navigate-on-cycle-pe-recruiting?customgpt=1, Need to bang out Argus, how long will the certification take, Starting to freak out about starting FT, Is two years of IB the best way to start off?
Bump
Learning to model is like learning to play an instrument. You’re better off practicing 2 hours per day for a longer duration of time than trying to cram it. Depending on where your proficiency is I think you’ll pick up the first 2 fairly quickly. There’s diminishing returns on effort after level 3 and almost no modeling test will look like level 5.
This doesn’t answer your question directly but hopefully gives you a different frame of mind.
Very helpful, thank you!
(Replying to this comment, but asking broadly) Other than 1-5 what else would you recommend? With specific regard to models with pref and investments in various parts of the capital structure
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