Quantitative Test Preparation

Quantitative tests like the McKinsey Problem Solving Test, McKinsey Online Problem Solving Test (also known as McKinsey Digital Assessment or the McKinsey Imbellus Game) and the BCG Potential test are used because there is a certain set of numerical computation and logical thinking skills required to be successful in consulting and these tests are used to evaluate these types of skills.

How to Prepare for a Quantitative Test

It is important to remember that while the format of the McKinsey Online Problem Test, BCG Potential test and other quantitative tests from other firms maybe different the skills or problem solving ability being tested is the same so the preparation process can be the same regardless of which test you are taking.

The main areas to practice are computations and data interpretation.

Practice Computations

The first area to practice is the speed and accuracy of your arithmetic as these tests are timed tests.

Math computation skills are a muscle so the more you use it the stronger it gets so practice, practice, practice. Work through as many quantitative problems as you can while you prepare for your test.

Practice Data Interpretation

The other area you will want to practice and develop is your data interpretation skills.

Polishing your foundational skills in word problems and data interpretation is where you should focus your attention.

The questions on these quantitative tests most closely resemble practice test questions from certain sections of the GRE particularly word problems and data interpretation questions so these are good resources to use in your preparation.

Recommended Practice Resources:

These are several resources I recommend to help you improve and practice your computations and data interpretation.

Math Computation Resources:

CaseInterviewMath.com – This is a FREE math practice tool I developed for practicing 1) arithmetic for speed and accuracy and 2) estimation math with large numbers. This tool compares your math accuracy and speed with other CaseInterview.com members and to my own test results as a benchmark. This helps give you an idea of how your math skills compare with others.

Data Interpretation & Word Problem Resources:

Nova’s GRE Math Prep Course(Copyright 2010) – Percent’s (page 330-346), Graphs (pages 347 – 375), Word Problems (pages 376 – 396) [If you’re really rusty on math: Averages (pages 274 – 284), Ratio & Proportions (pages 285 – 303)

Online Practice Resources:

Khan Academy Word Problems Practice

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Case Interview Quantitative Test Resources

Top Paid Case Interview Quantitative Test Resources

Comprehensive Guide to Case Interview Math

You do NOT need an MBA to pass a case interview! What you DO need to know are the basic math concepts used in business (and their mathematical expressions). My Comprehensive Guide to Case Interview Math teaches you these concepts.

Mental Math Fast Program

In Mental Math Fast, learn consulting math tricks to do case interview math quickly and accurately while under pressure.

Mckinsey Problem Solving Test Preparation Program

The McKinsey Problem Solving Test Preparation program consists of both McKinsey PST practice tests to practice and the Speed Guide and Video Demo. This program is a must have for those looking to succeed at the McKinsey PST phase of the interview.