Bain Answer First and Chart Reading Approach

Hi there, 

Bain Answer First is similar to the hypothesis driven approach in BCG and other firms. It is just a different name of saying it. Basically you form an initial answer (which is the hypothesis), and then prove / disprove that initial answer with different assertions (the branches and sub-branches in your framework / structure). 

On charts - yes from my experience in both Bain and BCG, Bain interviews tend to have more chart reading than other firms. It takes practice to get comfortable with that and get used to the typical Bain charts (e.g., mekkos are used a lot more in Bain). 

Feel free to DM me for tips, coaching and practices. 

Best,

Emily

Hi there!
The "Answer-First" approach centers on leading with a solution, meaning you're expected to start with a a clear, initial answer to the problem at hand. 
That means that instead of exploring a lot of different points before reaching a conclusion, you actually start by stating what you believe the answer might be. From there, you build your framework and analysis to test that idea that must be focused on this core idea. 
Some notes: (1) Usually the prompt give you hints of what a reasonable initial hypothesis would be. E.g.: if a company has seen a drop of 30% in profits in the last year, in normal conditions, the problem probably is not related to change in customer behavior. (2) Make your hypothesis open to changes, as the case unfolds it may be disproved. (3) Focus on the hypothesis, or it won't make even sense to state it as your initial step.
 

Bain is indeed more heavy on charts. Take a look at their reports and articles as usually those are similar to the ones found in interviews. Also, practice with great case buddies and coaches.

Feel free to reach out if you need professional support, I offer a 20min free alignment call to understand your situation and clarify my approach and how I can help ;-)
Best,
Mari

Hi there,

Bain Answer's First approach:

Bain Answer's First approach is something that experienced partners at Bain value a lot. They can when someone is trying the "Bain style" from day 1. It is similar to a hypothesis-driven approach. 

High-level explanation: You start with the answer to the problem and the key facts that must be right to prove your answer. Data and analysis should validate each of them. 

I do not suggest trying this in an interview if you have not been trained with someone who has really explained and prepared with this approach because it is not easy to deliver, especially in an interview. 

Charts:

 Beyond the type of charts (e.g. Mekkos) Bain tests attention to detail and critical thinking while interviewing with graphs. It is not only about understanding the graph, but also all the information that gives you and how it is connected to the case.  

I hope this helps, let me know if you need help preparing. 

Best,

Carlos