Since its introduction in 2017, the McKinsey Solve test has rigorously assessed the analytical and problem-solving abilities of thousands of applicants. It's not just a prerequisite; it’s a critical step for anyone aiming to join the firm. By simulating real-life scenarios that McKinsey consultants face, the test presents a series of complex problems and business cases to resolve.
Excelling in Solve is essential for distinguishing yourself and advancing through the interview process. This blog explores the most effective and updated methods to prepare yourself for this challenge.
The McKinsey Solve game in a nutshell
As widely stated, the McKinsey Solve assesses applicants' ability to handle stress and intricate work situations, determining their suitability for high-pressure environments.
The game consists of different mini-games designed to test various applicants’ skills:
- Ecosystem building game: applicants must create a stable ecosystem of plants and animals. The objective is to keep a sustainable food chain, demonstrating systemic thinking and resource management skills.
- Redrock Study: this mini-game requires applicants to evaluate the environment, analyzing data and answering quantitative questions. The task is divided into three phases: investigation, analysis, and reporting, during which they must gather data, perform calculations, and compile a final report.
- Ocean Cleanup: introduced as beta in mid-2024, in this game you need to select microbes with the right characteristics to clean plastics from the ocean. The key is matching microbes’ characteristics such as photosensitivity, pH, color, and others.
- Plant Defense: this game is actually similar to tower defense games, where native plants must be protected from invasive species using defensive resources. It tests the ability to make strategic decisions and adapt to unforeseen events.
- Disaster Management: prospects need to identify and manage natural disasters affecting an animal population in an ecosystem, selecting new locations to ensure the ecosystem's survival.
- Migration Management: applicants guide animals through migration, navigating obstacles and optimizing routes to minimize losses and ensure successful relocation
Time is not on the applicants’ side, as they typically have 70 minutes to solve 2 mini-games. Recently, some applicants reported a third game, in that case with additional time. In some phases, the rule of "not one step back" applies.
Applicants must also tackle various mathematical calculations to demonstrate analytical skills and the ability to interpret and create charts such as histograms and different graphs.
Five areas of assessment
You might wonder how 70% of applicants get eliminated in a game that assesses your capabilities in handling stressful work situations. McKinsey Solve evaluates applicants in five key areas for the company:
- Critical thinking: analyzing and evaluating to arrive at logical and reasoned conclusions.
- Systemic thinking: identifying the cause of a problem and providing the best solution.
- Decision-making: making decisions based on the information provided.
- Metacognition: being aware of one's mental capabilities and thought processes.
- Situational awareness: perceiving and understanding the surrounding environment, recognizing critical events, predicting future implications, and acting accordingly.
These skills are necessary in consulting and Solve tests whether you have the potential to use them.
Your prep options
Preparing is vital for success in the McKinsey Solve, as it can significantly improve your chances of standing out.
First and foremost, familiarize yourself with the different games and phases. Also, learn how to approach them, even partially, given the infinite game combinations. In 2024, almost all cases featured Ecosystem and Redrock.
Practicing arithmetic operations such us percentages, algebra, and statistics is a great call. At least half of the test covers these areas.
Online resources to simulate the gaming experience are highly recommended, and we will explore these in more detail later.
Learn to manage your time well and develop your critical thinking and decision-making skills by tackling complex problems with incomplete data, as required in the game.
Now, let's explore available prep options together.
Forums
Joining a dedicated forum allows you to read and share experiences with other applicants, fostering empathy.
A supportive community allows you to stay updated on the most recent changes and strategies to adopt. The exchange of comments and tips can be incredibly helpful before facing Solve.
YouTube channels
YouTube channels offer access to tutorials and videos that detail game strategies and provide graphic examples. By watching these, you can gather valuable information to put into practice during training with the available free templates.
That enhances your overall understanding and answering speed. Your chances of achieving success can only go up.
Learn by doing with solvers and simulators
If you're seeking help to improve your preparation, and you are, practicing with solvers and simulators is the best way. Using specific resources such the Redrock free template and Ecosystem free simulation, effectively replicates actual test conditions.
This practical approach helps you sharpen the application of your analytical skills, better time management, while developing a deeper understanding of test dynamics. It’s not just about knowing the concept of something; it’s about doing it.
Tailor-made simulators offer a targeted method to refine your skills, at your own pace, guiding you toward excellence. Additionally, you can try the all-in-one-bundle, that gets you fully covered. These resources are designed to give you a competitive edge, providing practical and concrete tools to approach the test confidently.
Don't miss this opportunity: start using these resources today and experience your efforts translate into success.
Unlock your potential with personalized coaching
Beyond self-study and interactive simulations, personalized coaching can elevate your preparation to the next level. Tailored guidance not only enhances your analytical skills but also provides the nuanced feedback necessary for mastering the McKinsey Solve test.
To this end, PSG Cracked has partnered with Preparami, an innovative AI platform designed specifically for consulting interview preparation. Preparami offers realistic interview simulations, structured feedback, and progress tracking, making it an indispensable tool in your journey towards success. Users can choose between educational and realistic modes and access a comprehensive library of consulting cases.
When studying cases, can you imagine counting on a partner’s feedback 24/7? Preparami can ensure that. It is suitable for applicants of all levels. Using it improves your analytical and problem-solving skills, for flexible and continuous preparation.
The right way to prepare for McKinsey Solve
As you can see, excelling in the McKinsey Solve test requires a comprehensive approach to preparation. From mastering the mini-games to honing critical thinking and decision-making skills, every step you take builds towards your ultimate goal of joining a prestigious firm like McKinsey.
Embrace the wealth of resources available - from simulators to personalized coaching - to transform your preparation into a competitive advantage. Don’t wait to start your journey; download the free templates and simulations today, and begin turning your aspirations into reality.
With the right tools and determination, success is within your reach.
