Laptop for modeling tests?

I have a mac for my personal laptop so was wondering what people do to practice for modeling technicals for PE interviews. Do you use your work laptop? Or do you have to buy a separate windows personal laptop instead? Anyway to practice excel modeling on a mac?

 

Based on the highest ranked content on WSO, practicing Excel modeling on a Mac is definitely possible, although there are some differences compared to a Windows PC that you should be aware of. Here are a few tips to help you practice for your PE modeling tests on a Mac:

  • Keyboard Shortcuts: The keyboard shortcuts on a Mac can be different from those on a Windows PC. It's important to familiarize yourself with these differences. For example, you'll often use the "Command" key on a Mac instead of the "Control" key on a Windows machine.

  • Excel Versions: Make sure you have the latest version of Excel for Mac, as Microsoft has been working to reduce the gap between the Mac and Windows versions of Excel.

  • Add-ins: Some Excel add-ins may not be available or may work differently on a Mac. Check the add-ins you need for modeling and see if they are compatible with Excel for Mac.

  • Using a Windows Emulator: If there are critical features or add-ins that are not available on the Mac version of Excel, consider using a Windows emulator or Boot Camp to run Windows on your Mac, which allows you to use the Windows version of Excel.

  • Practice Resources: Utilize resources like the WSO Elite Modeling Package, which includes courses on Excel modeling that can be beneficial for both Mac and Windows users.

  • External Keyboard: If you're used to Windows keyboard and find it hard to adjust to Mac's layout, you could use an external Windows keyboard with your Mac.

Remember, the key to mastering modeling is practice, regardless of the platform you are using. So, whether you're on a Mac or a PC, focus on getting as much hands-on practice as you can.

Sources: PE Recruiting Guide, PE Interview - Need to learn modeling in 2 days, PE Recruiting Guide, Q&A 2.0: 3rd Year BA/A/AC At MBB Going To UMM/MF This Summer, PE recruiting technical questions (software specific)

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

I was borrowing a thinkpad for a while and mostly using it docked with mouse and keyboad. I now have a Lenovo yoga i7 and its really nice and can connect to external monitors.

Mac is a nice to have computer, but its not fun to prep for interviews 

 

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