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September, 2003

How to Ace your InterviewInterview Workshop

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This is a guide to recruitment interviews of This is a guide to recruitment interviews of Inductis for consultants across levels in all Inductis for consultants across levels in all

Inductis offices and business areasInductis offices and business areas

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Introduction

Fit Interview

Case Interview

Summary

Appendix

AgendaAgenda

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Introduction

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What Makes A Good ConsultantWhat Makes A Good Consultant

Factors for Success: "The key factors for success in the management consulting field are qualities of character, intelligence, judgment, the ability to express oneself persuasively, self-confidence, [and] self-discipline."

Problem Solver: "The consultant is a professional problem solver who likes solving problems for the thrill of it, for his/her own satisfaction. S/he likes to face a variety of problems frequently. S/he's not the kind of person who could sit for 20 years behind the same desk. "

Team Leader: "The professional consultant must plan and organize much of his/her own work, must readily grasp and assume effective control of situations which are inherently unclear, and must be able to lead people over whom s/he exercises no authority."

Source: Source: 1968 Interviews with management consultants1968 Interviews with management consultants

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What We Look ForWhat We Look For

Analytic and Analytic and Quantitative SkillsQuantitative Skills

Communication SkillsCommunication SkillsLeadership AbilityLeadership Ability

TeamworkTeamwork

Ethics and IntegrityEthics and Integrity

OrganizationOrganization

Computer SkillsComputer Skills

CharacteristicsCharacteristics

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Our Selection ProcessOur Selection Process

Aptitude Test

Shortlist

Interview (3 Rounds)

The test contains 3 sections; Verbal, Mathematics and Analytics. Each section contains 10 questions. Total duration of the test is ½ hour.

Shortlist is on basis of the score in aptitude test and past academic record

Informal SessionYou get a chance to interact with our team to address all your queries related to Inductis; Interview, Career etc.

3 rounds of interviews are conducted; each interview having a mix of fit interview and case interview

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FitFit CaseCaseOfferOffer

Typically each interview is a mix of a fit interview and a case interview. To receive an Typically each interview is a mix of a fit interview and a case interview. To receive an offer you must succeed in bothoffer you must succeed in both

Our InterviewsOur Interviews

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The Fit Interview

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To explore your personal integrity and ambitionsTo explore your personal integrity and ambitions

To learn about your interests and to see if they To learn about your interests and to see if they match those of the firmmatch those of the firm

To see whether you can "present" yourself in a To see whether you can "present" yourself in a coherent mannercoherent manner

To ascertain your level of knowledge and interest in To ascertain your level of knowledge and interest in consulting consulting

To provide an opportunity for you to learn more To provide an opportunity for you to learn more about our firmabout our firm

ObjectivesObjectives

The main purpose of the fit interview is to discover whether you will "fit" with the firm's The main purpose of the fit interview is to discover whether you will "fit" with the firm's culture and peopleculture and people

OverviewOverview

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Tell me something about yourselfTell me something about yourself

Give me an instance when you performed under stressGive me an instance when you performed under stress

Give me an instance where you have delivered a creative solution. What was the Give me an instance where you have delivered a creative solution. What was the impact of your solution?impact of your solution?

Tell me an incident where your views were in conflict with team. How did you Tell me an incident where your views were in conflict with team. How did you resolve?resolve?

Typical Questions To ExpectTypical Questions To Expect

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Dos and Don'ts of a Fit InterviewDos and Don'ts of a Fit Interview

DO:DO: Relax and be comfortableRelax and be comfortable Express your own interests and Express your own interests and

expectationsexpectations Convey a coherent picture of yourself Convey a coherent picture of yourself

and your skillsand your skills Ask good questionsAsk good questions Demonstrate your knowledge of the Demonstrate your knowledge of the

firm (i.e. its culture and history)firm (i.e. its culture and history)

DON'T:DON'T: Get defensive or let nerves overcome Get defensive or let nerves overcome

youyou Feign interest in subjects to impress the Feign interest in subjects to impress the

interviewerinterviewer Tell stories that confuse the interviewer Tell stories that confuse the interviewer

or provide confusing images of who you or provide confusing images of who you areare

Ask questions for the sake of asking Ask questions for the sake of asking questionsquestions

Appear ignorant about the position for Appear ignorant about the position for which you are interviewing or about the which you are interviewing or about the firm with which you are interviewingfirm with which you are interviewing

Since the fit interview is designed to see simply if you match well with the firm, it is Since the fit interview is designed to see simply if you match well with the firm, it is difficult to put forth a set of rules. However, there are some basic dos and don'tsdifficult to put forth a set of rules. However, there are some basic dos and don'ts

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The Case Interview

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OverviewOverview

To ascertain how you think through problemsTo ascertain how you think through problems

To determine your ability to structure a logical To determine your ability to structure a logical argumentargument

To test your analytic and quantitative skillsTo test your analytic and quantitative skills

To give you a flavor for the types of problems To give you a flavor for the types of problems consultants work onconsultants work on

ObjectivesObjectives

Case interviews seem to be one of the biggest sources of stress surrounding the Case interviews seem to be one of the biggest sources of stress surrounding the interviewing process, but they don't need to be. If you understand what the interviewer interviewing process, but they don't need to be. If you understand what the interviewer is looking for, case interviews can be quite manageableis looking for, case interviews can be quite manageable

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General Hints for Approaching General Hints for Approaching CasesCases

Think first, then speak Think first, then speak

Be as clear and concise as possible (e.g. 1, 2, 3)Be as clear and concise as possible (e.g. 1, 2, 3)

Ask questions, don't just give answersAsk questions, don't just give answers

Make sure you are answering the problem being askedMake sure you are answering the problem being asked

Establish the scope of the problem before digging deep in one areaEstablish the scope of the problem before digging deep in one area

Always state your assumptionsAlways state your assumptions

Don't be afraid to take notes if there are a lot of factsDon't be afraid to take notes if there are a lot of facts

Be sure you explain your thought process/logic pathBe sure you explain your thought process/logic path

Select a solution and justify itSelect a solution and justify it

Don't forget possible alternativesDon't forget possible alternatives

Read the newspaper the day of your interview; many times interviewers will pull Read the newspaper the day of your interview; many times interviewers will pull their cases from the day's newstheir cases from the day's news

General Tips

No matter what kind of case you face, there are a few guidelines you should always No matter what kind of case you face, there are a few guidelines you should always keep in mindkeep in mind

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Population of the world:Population of the world:6.2 billion6.2 billion

Population of the U.S.:Population of the U.S.:290 million290 million

Number of adults in the U.S.:Number of adults in the U.S.:210 million (18+ yrs.)210 million (18+ yrs.)200 million (25+ yrs.)200 million (25+ yrs.)

Number of cars perNumber of cars perhousehold:household:

2.5 2.5

Number of households in the U.S.:Number of households in the U.S.:105 million105 million

Minimum wage:Minimum wage:approx. $5 per hourapprox. $5 per hour

While you certainly shouldn't go and memorize the census report, there are certain While you certainly shouldn't go and memorize the census report, there are certain statistics that you should be familiar with in order to help you solve cases. You should statistics that you should be familiar with in order to help you solve cases. You should also be familiar with general demographic trends (i.e. Gen-Xers vs. Baby-Boomers and also be familiar with general demographic trends (i.e. Gen-Xers vs. Baby-Boomers and income distribution)income distribution)

United States Basic StatisticsUnited States Basic Statistics

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Population of the world:Population of the world:6.2 billion6.2 billion

Population of India:Population of India:1000 million1000 million

Number of adults in India:Number of adults in India:530 million (18+ yrs.)530 million (18+ yrs.)440 million (21+ yrs.)440 million (21+ yrs.)

Number of cars perNumber of cars perHousehold: Household:

0.020.02

Number of households in India:Number of households in India:180 million180 million

Minimum wage:Minimum wage:approx. 15 rupees per hourapprox. 15 rupees per hour

While you certainly shouldn't go and memorize the census report, there are certain While you certainly shouldn't go and memorize the census report, there are certain statistics that you should be familiar with in order to help you solve casesstatistics that you should be familiar with in order to help you solve cases

India Basic StatisticsIndia Basic Statistics

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Interviewing StylesInterviewing Styles

Detailed introduction of Detailed introduction of casecase

Specific problem to be Specific problem to be solvedsolved

A few starter factsA few starter facts

Many additional facts Many additional facts available, if askedavailable, if asked

Conversational feel Conversational feel throughout case interviewthroughout case interview

Detailed Problem

Brief introductionBrief introduction

Very broad description of Very broad description of problem (e.g. poor problem (e.g. poor performance)performance)

Few, if any facts availableFew, if any facts available

““What do you think” What do you think” responses to many responses to many questionsquestions

Conceptual Problem

Case DescriptionsCase Descriptions

Two ExtremesTwo Extremes

Every interviewer will have a different interview style. When explaining a case you must Every interviewer will have a different interview style. When explaining a case you must feel comfortable with each of the different approaches and be able to adapt your feel comfortable with each of the different approaches and be able to adapt your approachapproach

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Types of CasesTypes of Cases

Special CasesSpecial Cases• EngineeringEngineering• EconomicsEconomics• Data AnalyticsData Analytics• PuzzlesPuzzles• MiscellaneousMiscellaneous

StrategyStrategy Brain-TeasersBrain-Teasers

Types of CasesTypes of Cases

The types of cases you are likely to encounter will generally fit into one of three distinct The types of cases you are likely to encounter will generally fit into one of three distinct groupsgroups

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Types of Strategy CasesTypes of Strategy Cases

CostsCosts

RevenuesRevenues

MarketingMarketing

Strategy cases generally involve one or more of the following three issues, but these Strategy cases generally involve one or more of the following three issues, but these certainly do not represent the universe of possible scenarioscertainly do not represent the universe of possible scenarios

Strategy CasesStrategy Cases

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Frameworks for Approaching Frameworks for Approaching Strategy Cases – The Four P'sStrategy Cases – The Four P's

What product do you want to sell?What product do you want to sell? What product are you able to produce?What product are you able to produce? What advantages does your product offer?What advantages does your product offer?

What price must you charge to make a profit?What price must you charge to make a profit? What price are consumers willing to pay?What price are consumers willing to pay? What price are your competitors charging?What price are your competitors charging?

Where is there a demand for your product?Where is there a demand for your product? Where are your suppliers located?Where are your suppliers located? What distribution channels are being used?What distribution channels are being used?

Who is your target audience?Who is your target audience? How do you reach them?How do you reach them? How much do you want to spend on promotions How much do you want to spend on promotions

and advertising?and advertising?

The Four P'sThe Four P's

ProductProduct

PricePrice

PlacePlace

PromotionPromotion

While you probably do not want to make it obvious that you are using an economic While you probably do not want to make it obvious that you are using an economic framework to solve a case, employing the underlying logic should help you structure framework to solve a case, employing the underlying logic should help you structure your argument and solidify your analysis. One popular framework is the Four P's:your argument and solidify your analysis. One popular framework is the Four P's:

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Frameworks for Approaching Frameworks for Approaching Strategy Cases – The Four C'sStrategy Cases – The Four C's

What do the customers want and need?What do the customers want and need? How will you satisfy those needs?How will you satisfy those needs? What is most important to the customers?What is most important to the customers? How much will they pay for it?How much will they pay for it?

What are your competitors doing?What are your competitors doing? What are their strengths and weaknesses?What are their strengths and weaknesses? How are they meeting the customer's demand?How are they meeting the customer's demand? What is their cost structure?What is their cost structure?

What are your company's capacities:What are your company's capacities:-- financial financial- - organizationalorganizational- - productionproduction- - marketing?marketing?

What are your strengths and weaknesses?What are your strengths and weaknesses?

What is your cost structure?What is your cost structure?-- fixed costs fixed costs-- variable costs variable costs

How have your costs changed over time?How have your costs changed over time?

The Four C'sThe Four C's

CustomersCustomers

CompetitorsCompetitors

CapacityCapacity

CostsCosts

Another helpful framework in approaching a strategy case is the Four C'sAnother helpful framework in approaching a strategy case is the Four C's

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Marketing Strategy ModelMarketing Strategy Model

Consumer Consumer AnalysisAnalysis

CompetitionCompetitionDistributionDistribution

Marketing Marketing MixMix

EconomicsEconomics

What is the relevant market? Who is buying and who is using the

product? What is the buying process? How can I segment the market?

What are your company's strengths and weaknesses?

What are your competitor's strengths and weaknesses?

What is your relative size and position in the market?

How do your resources differ from those of your competitors?

What are the costs? What is the break even? How long is the payback on

my investment?

How does my product fit with my other products?

How will I differentiate my product?

How does the product life cycle affect my plans?

How can my product reach the consumer? How much do the players in each distribution channel profit? Who holds the power in each distribution channel available?

StartStart

While it is slightly more complex than the previous frameworks, the marketing strategy While it is slightly more complex than the previous frameworks, the marketing strategy model provides an excellent frame of reference for marketing casesmodel provides an excellent frame of reference for marketing cases

Framework for Approaching Strategy Framework for Approaching Strategy Cases – Marketing Strategy ModelCases – Marketing Strategy Model

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Ability to breakdown a complex problem into simple stepsAbility to breakdown a complex problem into simple steps

Conceptual reasoning skillsConceptual reasoning skills

Logical reasoningLogical reasoning

Quantitative skillsQuantitative skills

Basic Economics KnowledgeBasic Economics Knowledge

Basic Engineering KnowledgeBasic Engineering Knowledge

CreativityCreativity

Brain teasers and Special CasesBrain teasers and Special Cases

Brain Teasers and Special Cases are meant to test the following ..Brain Teasers and Special Cases are meant to test the following ..

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If You Get in a Jam…If You Get in a Jam…

Pause to collect your thoughts. Remaining silent is better than blurting out an Pause to collect your thoughts. Remaining silent is better than blurting out an incoherent thoughtincoherent thought

Recount what you already know to the interviewer. By reviewing what you know Recount what you already know to the interviewer. By reviewing what you know about the case, the next step often becomes more clearabout the case, the next step often becomes more clear

Don't give up. Interviewers are judging your poise and maturity in addition to your Don't give up. Interviewers are judging your poise and maturity in addition to your problem-solving skillsproblem-solving skills

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Summary

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Force-fitting a framework Force-fitting a framework that just doesn't workthat just doesn't work

... but there are ... but there are inappropriate approachesinappropriate approaches

Ignoring or forgetting Ignoring or forgetting important facts important facts

Defending impractical solutionsDefending impractical solutions

There is no single “right” answer…There is no single “right” answer…

SummarySummary

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Appendix

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Sample General Cases

Sample Special Cases

Sample Data Analytics Cases

Additional Resources

AppendixAppendix

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Sample General Cases

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Case #1Case #1 Case #2Case #2 Case #3Case #3

You are visiting a new client who sells golf balls in the United States. You are visiting a new client who sells golf balls in the United States. Having had no time to do background research, you sit on the plane Having had no time to do background research, you sit on the plane wondering what is the annual market size for golf balls in the U.S. and wondering what is the annual market size for golf balls in the U.S. and what factors drive demand. Your plane lands in 15 minutes; how would what factors drive demand. Your plane lands in 15 minutes; how would you go about answering these questions?you go about answering these questions?

Why is there no light beer in the UK?Why is there no light beer in the UK? You have been called in by a Big 4 accounting You have been called in by a Big 4 accounting firm that is experiencing declining profitability firm that is experiencing declining profitability in its auditing operation. What levers would in its auditing operation. What levers would you push to help improve profitability?you push to help improve profitability?

Hypothetical ApproachHypothetical Approach•• Golf balls sales are driven by end-users. You have to determine the Golf balls sales are driven by end-users. You have to determine the

number of end-users; this will be some fraction of the total U.S. population number of end-users; this will be some fraction of the total U.S. population (say 300 million to make my math easier). First assume a uniform age (say 300 million to make my math easier). First assume a uniform age distribution and an average life expectancy of 80 years. Then assume distribution and an average life expectancy of 80 years. Then assume that only people in the ages 20-70 will be potential buyers. Thus you that only people in the ages 20-70 will be potential buyers. Thus you eliminate 30 to 80 years or 3/8 of the 300 million population. So, now you eliminate 30 to 80 years or 3/8 of the 300 million population. So, now you are down to a potential buyer pool of about 110 million. Now you might are down to a potential buyer pool of about 110 million. Now you might estimate how many people out of 10 play golf – say 4 – so now 4/10 of estimate how many people out of 10 play golf – say 4 – so now 4/10 of 110 gets you down to 44 million people who play golf. Now you have to 110 gets you down to 44 million people who play golf. Now you have to estimate purchase frequency, how many balls per month an average estimate purchase frequency, how many balls per month an average person buys (you may want to temper this “average purchase” person buys (you may want to temper this “average purchase” assumption by at least mentioning that retired people play more than assumption by at least mentioning that retired people play more than students). A good guess might be 15. So demand per month is now 15 x students). A good guess might be 15. So demand per month is now 15 x 44 million or 660 million. Finally, you need to estimate the number of 44 million or 660 million. Finally, you need to estimate the number of months per year that people play golf – 12 months in good climate months per year that people play golf – 12 months in good climate regions, maybe 5 in regions with cold winters – so on average 8 is a regions, maybe 5 in regions with cold winters – so on average 8 is a decent estimate: 8 x 660 = 5.280 million golf balls per yeardecent estimate: 8 x 660 = 5.280 million golf balls per year

Hypothetical ApproachHypothetical Approach•• Whenever you hear “declining profitability,” Whenever you hear “declining profitability,”

start with basic profitability analysis. start with basic profitability analysis. Determine whether this is a revenue Determine whether this is a revenue problem, cost problem or both.problem, cost problem or both.

Hypothetical ApproachHypothetical Approach•• This problem does not fit in common This problem does not fit in common

framework, but it can be dissected by framework, but it can be dissected by simply listing the alternative reasons for simply listing the alternative reasons for each component of the issue. Here is one each component of the issue. Here is one approach:approach:

•• The reason there is no light beer could be The reason there is no light beer could be because (1) consumers do not demand it, because (1) consumers do not demand it, (2) producers are not producing it, despite (2) producers are not producing it, despite consumer demand, or (3) some outside consumer demand, or (3) some outside influence, such as the government, will not influence, such as the government, will not permit light beer in the country. Following permit light beer in the country. Following the producer option, one can subdivide the the producer option, one can subdivide the problem as nobody wants to sell light beer problem as nobody wants to sell light beer in the UK or somehow, light beer producers in the UK or somehow, light beer producers are blocked out of the UKare blocked out of the UK

The following sample cases have been compiled from Kellogg’s, Stern’s, and Tuck’s The following sample cases have been compiled from Kellogg’s, Stern’s, and Tuck’s Consulting Club Guides to management consulting cases. They are intended to assist Consulting Club Guides to management consulting cases. They are intended to assist you in preparing for your case interview. The suggested approaches are by no means you in preparing for your case interview. The suggested approaches are by no means the only approach you could take, but rather are the ones authors of these guides the only approach you could take, but rather are the ones authors of these guides thought were most appropriatethought were most appropriate

General CasesGeneral Cases

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General Cases (Cont’d)General Cases (Cont’d)

Case #4Case #4 Case #5*Case #5*

Your client is going to build a skyscraper, but is not sure Your client is going to build a skyscraper, but is not sure how many stories to make it. How should he decide?how many stories to make it. How should he decide?

The airline industry is characterized by low returns and stiff The airline industry is characterized by low returns and stiff competition. In the early years after deregulation, discount competition. In the early years after deregulation, discount carriers like People Express sprang up. Years later the carriers like People Express sprang up. Years later the discounters have gone out of business. In a price-competitive discounters have gone out of business. In a price-competitive industry, why is it that the higher-cost carriers were able to industry, why is it that the higher-cost carriers were able to survive and the low-cost ones weren't?survive and the low-cost ones weren't?

Hypothetical ApproachHypothetical Approach•• This is an economic supply/demand mind tease. Clearly you This is an economic supply/demand mind tease. Clearly you

don't want to lose money on the deal. The building will house don't want to lose money on the deal. The building will house tenants, who will pay to reside there. The costs of building and tenants, who will pay to reside there. The costs of building and maintaining the structure (both fixed and incremental by story) maintaining the structure (both fixed and incremental by story) need to be compared to revenue-generating capability of the need to be compared to revenue-generating capability of the project. When marginal revenue equals marginal cost you stop project. When marginal revenue equals marginal cost you stop adding storiesadding stories

Hypothetical ApproachHypothetical ApproachThese are some of the basic issues to be fleshed out:These are some of the basic issues to be fleshed out:•• Characteristics of discounters:Characteristics of discounters:

–– Low faresLow fares–– Limited serviceLimited service

•• Characteristics of major carriers:Characteristics of major carriers:–– Higher fares, but better coverage and serviceHigher fares, but better coverage and service–– Hub systems channeling trafficHub systems channeling traffic

•• Competitive moves by majors: Innovative use of information Competitive moves by majors: Innovative use of information technology for yield management and differential pricingtechnology for yield management and differential pricing1)1) Basically they priced every seat individually Basically they priced every seat individually

based on continuously monitoring supply/demandbased on continuously monitoring supply/demand2)2) They wooed leisure customers with fares lower than They wooed leisure customers with fares lower than

discounters and charged more from business travelers discounters and charged more from business travelers (indifferent to price but sensitive to service frequency)(indifferent to price but sensitive to service frequency)

3)3) They stole the discounters' market and forced them outThey stole the discounters' market and forced them out

* This case is too complex for BA candidates. Included here for illustrative purposes only

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ExamplesExamples

$

There are approximately 6 billion people in the world.There are approximately 6 billion people in the world.Lets assume that a third live in areas where they cannot Lets assume that a third live in areas where they cannot get credit cards (rural areas, poverty stricken areas, get credit cards (rural areas, poverty stricken areas, etc.).etc.).Of the 4 billion remaining lets assume three quarters are Of the 4 billion remaining lets assume three quarters are adults (in the U.S. it’s 4/5, but we have a slower birth rate adults (in the U.S. it’s 4/5, but we have a slower birth rate than many countries).than many countries).Of the 3 billion adults a third don't carry credit cards (they Of the 3 billion adults a third don't carry credit cards (they have bad credit, don't believe in credit cards, are have bad credit, don't believe in credit cards, are unemployed, etc.).unemployed, etc.).Of the 2 billion adults who carry credit cards, each Of the 2 billion adults who carry credit cards, each carries on average of 3 cards (Visa, Mastercard, carries on average of 3 cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express).American Express).Resulting in 6 billion credit cards in the world.Resulting in 6 billion credit cards in the world.

Yankee Stadium holds approximately 50,000 fans.Yankee Stadium holds approximately 50,000 fans.There are approximately 150 additional people working There are approximately 150 additional people working at the stadium.at the stadium.Of the workers each either carry approximately 40 Of the workers each either carry approximately 40 quarters or have 40 in their cash registers to provide quarters or have 40 in their cash registers to provide change to customers for a total of 6,000 quarters.change to customers for a total of 6,000 quarters.Of the fans approximately 4/5 are male.Of the fans approximately 4/5 are male.Of that 40,000 half are like my dad and have about 10 Of that 40,000 half are like my dad and have about 10 quarters in their pockets at any given time for a total of quarters in their pockets at any given time for a total of 200,000 quarters.200,000 quarters.Of the remaining 20,000 half have no quarters, and half Of the remaining 20,000 half have no quarters, and half have 6 quarters to ride the subway home for a total of have 6 quarters to ride the subway home for a total of 60,000 quarters.60,000 quarters.Of the 10,000 women half have 12 quarters for them and Of the 10,000 women half have 12 quarters for them and their husbands/boyfriends to ride the subway home, and their husbands/boyfriends to ride the subway home, and half have 1 quarter to call someone in an emergency for half have 1 quarter to call someone in an emergency for a total of 65,000 quarters.a total of 65,000 quarters.For a grand total of 331,000 quarters in Yankee Stadium.For a grand total of 331,000 quarters in Yankee Stadium.

There are approximately 250 million people in the U.S.There are approximately 250 million people in the U.S.Of those about half are women.Of those about half are women.Of the 125 million women 4/5 are adults.Of the 125 million women 4/5 are adults.Of the 100 million adult women about 3/4 wear either Of the 100 million adult women about 3/4 wear either pierced or clip-on earrings for a total of 75 million people.pierced or clip-on earrings for a total of 75 million people.Of the 25 million girls about 1/5 get their ears pierced or Of the 25 million girls about 1/5 get their ears pierced or start wearing earrings each year and about 2/5 already start wearing earrings each year and about 2/5 already have until the full 3/4 wear earrings by the time they are have until the full 3/4 wear earrings by the time they are adults for a total of approximately 15 million girls at any adults for a total of approximately 15 million girls at any given time.given time.Of the 125 million men, 4/5 are adults.Of the 125 million men, 4/5 are adults.Of the 100 million adult men about 1/20 wear earrings Of the 100 million adult men about 1/20 wear earrings (based on my personal experience, but obviously (based on my personal experience, but obviously subjective) for a total of 5 million.subjective) for a total of 5 million.Of the 25 million boys only about 1/50 have parents who Of the 25 million boys only about 1/50 have parents who will let them wear earrings for a total of .5 million boys.will let them wear earrings for a total of .5 million boys.For a grand total of 95.5 million people wearing earrings.For a grand total of 95.5 million people wearing earrings.

How many credit cards are there in the world?

How many quarters are there in Yankeestadium during a sold out game?

How many people in the U.S. wearearrings?

While most cases fall into the strategy category, there are several cases that are brain-While most cases fall into the strategy category, there are several cases that are brain-teasers. These cases are meant to test your quantitative ability and general logical teasers. These cases are meant to test your quantitative ability and general logical reasoning skillsreasoning skills

General CasesGeneral CasesGuesstimatesGuesstimates

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Sample Special Cases

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Engineering CaseEngineering Case Economics CaseEconomics Case MiscellaneousMiscellaneous

What is the minimum number of 1 " x 1" x 1" cubesWhat is the minimum number of 1 " x 1" x 1" cubesneeded to make a 10" x 10" x 10" cube? needed to make a 10" x 10" x 10" cube?

Assume that the overhead cost to produce a computer isAssume that the overhead cost to produce a computer is$10,000 and the variable cost is $5,000 per computer, graph $10,000 and the variable cost is $5,000 per computer, graph

the variable cost, fixed cost, total cost and total cost per unit. the variable cost, fixed cost, total cost and total cost per unit.

Why are manhole covers round?Why are manhole covers round?

First assume that the cube is hollow, then since each side must be 10 First assume that the cube is hollow, then since each side must be 10 inches in dimensions ten 1" x 1" x 1" cubes are needed for each side. inches in dimensions ten 1" x 1" x 1" cubes are needed for each side. However, each corner piece will have 3 sides showing, while each However, each corner piece will have 3 sides showing, while each outside non-corner piece will have 2 sides showing and each inside outside non-corner piece will have 2 sides showing and each inside piece will have only 1 side showing. Thus, we must break down the piece will have only 1 side showing. Thus, we must break down the problem into the three distinct types of pieces.problem into the three distinct types of pieces.

– Corner Pieces: Corner Pieces: A cube has 4 corner pieces per each of its 6 A cube has 4 corner pieces per each of its 6 sides. Since each corner piece has 3 sides showing, only 8 cubes sides. Since each corner piece has 3 sides showing, only 8 cubes (4 x 6 ÷ 3) are needed to create the corners.(4 x 6 ÷ 3) are needed to create the corners.

– Non-corner outside pieces: Non-corner outside pieces: For the non-corner outside pieces a For the non-corner outside pieces a total of 8 (10 - 2 corners) are needed per direction. Thus, since total of 8 (10 - 2 corners) are needed per direction. Thus, since there are 4 directions per side a total of 32 (8 x 4) cubes are there are 4 directions per side a total of 32 (8 x 4) cubes are needed needed per side. Since each non-corner outside piece per side. Since each non-corner outside piece has two sides showing a total of 96 cubes (32 x 6 ÷ 2) are need has two sides showing a total of 96 cubes (32 x 6 ÷ 2) are need to create the non-corner outside pieces.to create the non-corner outside pieces.

– Inside pieces: Inside pieces: A total of 64 inside corner cubes are needed per A total of 64 inside corner cubes are needed per side to create the inside pieces. (i.e. 100 - 4 [corners] - 32 [non-side to create the inside pieces. (i.e. 100 - 4 [corners] - 32 [non-corner outside]). Since, there are 6 sides a total of 384 cubes will corner outside]). Since, there are 6 sides a total of 384 cubes will be needed for the inside.be needed for the inside.

– Total: Total: Thus, 488 1" x 1" x 1" cubes (8 + 96 + 384) are needed to Thus, 488 1" x 1" x 1" cubes (8 + 96 + 384) are needed to create a 10" x 10" x 10" cube.create a 10" x 10" x 10" cube.

Alternative Solution: Subtract the inside cubes from the volume (i.e. Alternative Solution: Subtract the inside cubes from the volume (i.e. 10 x 10 x 10 - (8 x 8 x 8)= 488 cubes).10 x 10 x 10 - (8 x 8 x 8)= 488 cubes).

So that they can't fall in.So that they can't fall in.

To provide the greatest opening width To provide the greatest opening width for the least total opening area and for the least total opening area and therefore save on material costs.therefore save on material costs.

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

00

10,00010,000

20,00020,000

30,00030,000

40,00040,000

50,00050,000

$60,000$60,000

Fixed CostFixed Cost

Variable CostVariable Cost

Fixed + Variable CostsFixed + Variable Costs

Volume (# Computers)Volume (# Computers)

$01 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

4,0004,000

8,0008,000

12,00012,000

$16,000$16,000

Total CostTotal Cost

Variable CostVariable Cost

Volume (# Computers)Volume (# Computers)

($/U

nit

)($

/Un

it)

There are a variety of other types of cases which you may be asked. They will focus There are a variety of other types of cases which you may be asked. They will focus on your ability to think conceptually, business acumen, and creativityon your ability to think conceptually, business acumen, and creativity

ExamplesExamples

Special CasesSpecial Cases

3636* Fresh BA’s are not expected to have SAS knowledge. Sample case included for illustration only

Puzzle #1Puzzle #1 Puzzle #2Puzzle #2

A Little nation has its gold coins manufactured by eight different European companies. The Treasury A Little nation has its gold coins manufactured by eight different European companies. The Treasury Minister and his secretary were examining samples just delivered from the eight companies. Minister and his secretary were examining samples just delivered from the eight companies. "How much should these coins weigh?" the Minister asked. "How much should these coins weigh?" the Minister asked. "Ten grams each, Sir." "Ten grams each, Sir." "At least one of these coins - this one - is lighter than the others," said the Minister. "Let's check." "At least one of these coins - this one - is lighter than the others," said the Minister. "Let's check." He put the coin on the scale, which showed that the coin weighed only nine grams. A bunch of coins, He put the coin on the scale, which showed that the coin weighed only nine grams. A bunch of coins, untidily placed on a tray, were frantically searched by the Minister and his secretary. Within the bunch, untidily placed on a tray, were frantically searched by the Minister and his secretary. Within the bunch, they found a handful of coins that also weighed one gram less than they should. The two men looked at they found a handful of coins that also weighed one gram less than they should. The two men looked at each other; obviously, one of the manufacturing companies was producing coins with the wrong each other; obviously, one of the manufacturing companies was producing coins with the wrong weight. weight. "Most of the coins are still packed in the plastic wrappers. It should be easy to tell which company is "Most of the coins are still packed in the plastic wrappers. It should be easy to tell which company is producing the faulty batch," said the secretary. producing the faulty batch," said the secretary. The two men placed eight packs of coins on the table, one pack from each company. The two men placed eight packs of coins on the table, one pack from each company. "How tedious," sighed the Minister. "Do we really have to use this scale eight more times, just to find "How tedious," sighed the Minister. "Do we really have to use this scale eight more times, just to find the faulty batch of coins?" the faulty batch of coins?" "That won't be necessary, Sir," grinned the secretary. "We can find the lighter coins by using the scale "That won't be necessary, Sir," grinned the secretary. "We can find the lighter coins by using the scale only once."? only once."? How is it possible?How is it possible?

One day Arthur came to Merlin and asked him, One day Arthur came to Merlin and asked him, "Show me how to be a wise and good king." Merlin "Show me how to be a wise and good king." Merlin replied, "If you can pass a series of mental tests, I will replied, "If you can pass a series of mental tests, I will teach you".teach you".Merlin then showed Arthur three chests, one was Merlin then showed Arthur three chests, one was labelled GOLD COINS, the second was labelled labelled GOLD COINS, the second was labelled SILVER COINS, and the last, GOLD OR SILVER SILVER COINS, and the last, GOLD OR SILVER COINS. He stated that all the three labels were all on COINS. He stated that all the three labels were all on the wrong chests. Given that one chest contained the wrong chests. Given that one chest contained gold, one silver, and one bronze.gold, one silver, and one bronze.

How many chests must Arthur open to deduce which How many chests must Arthur open to deduce which label goes on which chest?label goes on which chest?

The secretary placed on the scale 1 coin from the first batch, 2 from the second, and so on until he put 8 from The secretary placed on the scale 1 coin from the first batch, 2 from the second, and so on until he put 8 from the eighth batch. the eighth batch.

If all coins weighed 10 grams each, then the weight displayed on the scale should have been 360 grams ((1 + 2 If all coins weighed 10 grams each, then the weight displayed on the scale should have been 360 grams ((1 + 2 + ... + 8) × 10). But, since one batch of coins weighs less, the difference between 360 grams and the weight + ... + 8) × 10). But, since one batch of coins weighs less, the difference between 360 grams and the weight displayed on the scale should point us to the faulty batch. displayed on the scale should point us to the faulty batch.

Arthur does not need to open any chests.Arthur does not need to open any chests.Since all labels are on the wrong chests, the chest Since all labels are on the wrong chests, the chest labelled GOLD OR SILVER COINS cannot contain labelled GOLD OR SILVER COINS cannot contain either gold nor silver, so must contain bronze. Thus the either gold nor silver, so must contain bronze. Thus the chest labelled GOLD COINS must contain silver coins, chest labelled GOLD COINS must contain silver coins, and SILVER COINS must contain gold.and SILVER COINS must contain gold.

Puzzle cases are intended to test your conceptual reasoning and ability to think Puzzle cases are intended to test your conceptual reasoning and ability to think logicallylogically

Special Cases - PuzzlesSpecial Cases - Puzzles

3737

Sample Data Analytics Cases

3838

MathMath CombinatoricsCombinatorics AnalysisAnalysis

A thin membrane covers the surface of the (spherical) earth. A thin membrane covers the surface of the (spherical) earth. One square meter is added to the area of this membrane to One square meter is added to the area of this membrane to form a larger sphere. How much is added to the radius and form a larger sphere. How much is added to the radius and volume of this membrane?volume of this membrane?  

n people each know a different piece of n people each know a different piece of gossip. They can telephone each other and gossip. They can telephone each other and exchange all the information they know (so exchange all the information they know (so that after the call they both know anything that after the call they both know anything that either of them knew before the call). What that either of them knew before the call). What is the smallest number of calls needed so that is the smallest number of calls needed so that everyone knows everything? everyone knows everything?

What is the longest time that a particle can What is the longest time that a particle can take in traveling between two points if it never take in traveling between two points if it never increases its acceleration along the way and increases its acceleration along the way and reaches the second point with speed V? reaches the second point with speed V?

V = (4/3)*pi*r^3 and A = 4*pi*r^2V = (4/3)*pi*r^3 and A = 4*pi*r^2

Need to find out how much V increases if A increases by 1 m^2Need to find out how much V increases if A increases by 1 m^2

dV / dr = 4 * pi * r^2 dA / dr = 8 * pi * r dV / dA = (dV / dr) / (dA / dr) dV / dr = 4 * pi * r^2 dA / dr = 8 * pi * r dV / dA = (dV / dr) / (dA / dr) = (4 * pi * r^2) / (8 * pi * r) = r/2 = 3,250,000 m= (4 * pi * r^2) / (8 * pi * r) = r/2 = 3,250,000 m

If the area of the cover is increased by 1 square meter, then the If the area of the cover is increased by 1 square meter, then the volume it contains is increased by about 3.25 million cubic meters. volume it contains is increased by about 3.25 million cubic meters.

We seem to be getting a lot of mileage out of such a small square We seem to be getting a lot of mileage out of such a small square of cotton. However, the new cover would not be very high above of cotton. However, the new cover would not be very high above the surface of the planet -- about 6 nanometers (calculate dr/dA). the surface of the planet -- about 6 nanometers (calculate dr/dA).

Assumptions: Assumptions: – x(0) = 0; x(0) = 0; – x(T) = X 2. x(T) = X 2. – v(0) = 0; v(0) = 0; – v(T) = V 3. v(T) = V 3. – d(a)/dt <= 0 d(a)/dt <= 0

SolutionSolution– a(t) = constant = A = V^2/2X which a(t) = constant = A = V^2/2X which

implies T = 2X/V. implies T = 2X/V. Proof: Proof:

– Consider assumptions as they apply to Consider assumptions as they apply to f(t) = A * t - v(t): 1. integral from 0 to T f(t) = A * t - v(t): 1. integral from 0 to T of f = 0 2. f(0) = f(T) = 0 3. d^2(f)/dt^2 of f = 0 2. f(0) = f(T) = 0 3. d^2(f)/dt^2 <= 0 From the mean value theorem, <= 0 From the mean value theorem, f(t) = 0. f(t) = 0.

1 for n=21 for n=2 3 for n=3 3 for n=3 2n-4 for n>=4 2n-4 for n>=4 This can be achieved as follows: choose This can be achieved as follows: choose

four people (A, B, C, and D) as the "core four people (A, B, C, and D) as the "core group".group".

Each person outside the core group Each person outside the core group phones a member of the core group (it phones a member of the core group (it doesn't matter which); this takes n-4 calls. doesn't matter which); this takes n-4 calls.

Now the core group makes 4 calls: A-B, C-Now the core group makes 4 calls: A-B, C-D, A-C, and B-D. At this point, each D, A-C, and B-D. At this point, each member of the core group knows member of the core group knows everything. everything.

Now, each person outside the core group Now, each person outside the core group calls anybody who knows everything; this calls anybody who knows everything; this again requires n-4 calls, for a total of 2n-4. again requires n-4 calls, for a total of 2n-4.

The following sample cases have been compiled with input from Inductis associates The following sample cases have been compiled with input from Inductis associates and managers. They are intended to assist you in preparing for your interviewand managers. They are intended to assist you in preparing for your interview

Sample Data Analytics CasesSample Data Analytics Cases

3939

Probability and StatisticsProbability and Statistics Likelihood EstimationLikelihood Estimation MathematicalMathematical

A red and a white die are rolled. Let event C = {5 on red die} and A red and a white die are rolled. Let event C = {5 on red die} and event D = {sum of dice 11}. The 36 outcomes have equal event D = {sum of dice 11}. The 36 outcomes have equal

likelihood. Are events C and D independent?likelihood. Are events C and D independent?

Let XLet X11, X, X22, …,X, …,XNN be a random sample from geometric be a random sample from geometric

distribution with p.m.f. f(x;distribution with p.m.f. f(x;pp) = (1-) = (1-pp))x-1x-1, x=1,2,3… What is , x=1,2,3… What is the maximum likelihood estimator of the maximum likelihood estimator of pp (derive)? (derive)?

Without finding their numerical Without finding their numerical values, which is greater, e^(pi) or values, which is greater, e^(pi) or

(pi)^e?(pi)^e?

Of the 36 events:Of the 36 events:- 6 are favorable to C, - 6 are favorable to C, - 2 are favorable to D,- 2 are favorable to D,- and 1 is favorable to C ∩ D. Therefore: - and 1 is favorable to C ∩ D. Therefore:

   P(C) * P(D) = (6/36)*(2/36) = (1/108) ≠ (1/36) = P(C ∩ D)P(C) * P(D) = (6/36)*(2/36) = (1/108) ≠ (1/36) = P(C ∩ D)

Hence, dependent eventsHence, dependent events

e^(pi)e^(pi)

Put x = pi/e - 1 in the Put x = pi/e - 1 in the inequality e^x > 1+x (x>0)inequality e^x > 1+x (x>0)

Likelihood function is

L(p) = (1 – p)x1

-1 p(1 – p) x2

-1p…….(1-p)xn

-1 p = pN (1

- p) xi-n , 0 < p <1

 

Ln L(p) = nlnp + ( ni=1 x

i-n) ln(1-p) 0 < p < 1

 Since we restrict p to (0, 1) , take derivative:  d ln L(p) = n - ni=1

xi-n = 0

Solve for p:

P = n = 1 => M.I.E(p) = p = n = 1

ni=1 xi X

^

ni=1 xi X

Data Analytics cases will address specialized statistics, mathematics and logical Data Analytics cases will address specialized statistics, mathematics and logical knowledgeknowledge

ExamplesExamples

Special Data Analytics CasesSpecial Data Analytics Cases(Contd.)(Contd.)

4040

SAS DatasetSAS Dataset Sample ProblemSample Problem

Create a new variable, which contains the means Create a new variable, which contains the means over time for each companyover time for each company

* Fresh BA’s are not expected to have SAS knowledge. Sample case included for illustration only

Company State Year RevenueVerizon New York 1990 $100MMVerizon New York 1991 $120MMVerizon New York 1992 $130MMVerizon New Jersey 1990 $90MMVerizon New Jersey 1991 $100MMVerizon New Jersey 1992 $95MMAT&T New York 1990 $100MM AT&T New York 1991 $110MM AT&T New York 1992 $90MM SNET Connecticut 1990 $70MMSNET Connecticut 1991 $100MMSNET Connecticut 1992 $80MM

Problem Rationale

A simple problem that would be given to anyone that claims they have experience with SAS, or those that admit to having moderate experience. There are many ways of getting to the answer, but what is critical is whether candidates start running loops over the data or use some of SAS’s in-built basic functionalities, such as PROC MEANS, SUMMARY, SORT, DATA step, etc.

Usually, this type of a problem can be easily extended to become more involved, but this is always one of the first steps.

This type of a question reveals how candidates think about datasets.

SAS dataset with yearly revenues by state for three SAS dataset with yearly revenues by state for three telecommunication companies telecommunication companies

SAS cases are designed for data analytics candidates to test basic SAS knowledge as SAS cases are designed for data analytics candidates to test basic SAS knowledge as well as approach towards datasetswell as approach towards datasets

Sample Data Analytics CasesSample Data Analytics CasesSample SAS* CaseSample SAS* Case

4141

Additional Resources

4242

Additional Resources to Consult Additional Resources to Consult Before Your InterviewBefore Your Interview

Ace Your Case! The Essential Management Consulting Case Workbook Ace Your Case! The Essential Management Consulting Case Workbook – Wet Feet Press 1-800-926-4JOBWet Feet Press 1-800-926-4JOB

Competitive AdvantageCompetitive Advantage– Michael PorterMichael Porter

Competitive StrategyCompetitive Strategy– Michael PorterMichael Porter

The Consulting Resource Packet The Consulting Resource Packet – Wharton Career Development & Placement (Packet #13)Wharton Career Development & Placement (Packet #13)

Harvard Business School Career Guide: Management ConsultingHarvard Business School Career Guide: Management Consulting– Harvard Business School Press 1-800-545-7685Harvard Business School Press 1-800-545-7685

The Ten Day MBAThe Ten Day MBA– Steven SillbigerSteven Sillbiger

Case Interviews at Consulting Firms WebsitesCase Interviews at Consulting Firms Websites– Wet Feet Press 1-800-926-4JOBWet Feet Press 1-800-926-4JOB– http://www.mckinsey.com/careers/apply/interviewingtips/casestudy/index.asp – http://www.bcg.com/careers/interview_prep/practice_cases.jsp

– http://www.bain.com/bainweb/Join_Bain/case_interviews.asp