Step 2: How?

Overview: Approaching a case
There is more than one good way to approach a case, but organizing your thoughts with a basic guideline like the one below can help structure your thinking.

  • Listen to the question.
  • Ask clarifying questions.
  • Summarize the issue for the interviewer.
  • Put your initial ideas on paper, graphically when possible.
  • Ask for additional information.
  • Structure your thinking process.
  • Describe different analytical approaches and pick one.
  • State your assumptions.
  • Focus on key concepts to explore.
  • Analyze and incorporate data into your thought structure. Use the data provided and ask for additional data if needed.
  • If you’re stumped, be creative.
  • Ask questions.
  • Summarize your key findings.
  • Outline your final recommendation or conclusion.


  • How? Sections