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Anonymous A

on Apr 23, 2018

Global

Note Taking Paper Interview

Hi Experts,

Is it okay to take your own paper into an interview? I would like to pre draw up my pages with sections for each question and note taking etc.

Thanks

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Coach

on Apr 23, 2018

I agree with Vlad - definitely bring your own paper and pen if you want, but do not pre-draw anything.

Something I saw some candidates do successfully was bring their own A3 paper (twice the size of standard A4) which gave them twice the space to write and brainstorm. If this is something you think would be helpful, I'd encourage you to try it out!

2 comments

Tom

on Apr 24, 2018

This is very interesting! Does anyone else have views on A3? I think it’s a great idea if it’s allowed

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Coach

on Apr 24, 2018

Despite other comments on here, I have seen it done several times (and have done it a few times myself), and it has never been an issue. The worst that could happen is that they ask you to use the A4 provided.

Vlad

Coach

on Apr 23, 2018

McKinsey / Accenture Alum / Got all BIG3 offers / Harvard Business School

Hi,

It's fine to take your papers however I would not pre-draw anything. It's just 2 lines and you can easily do that during / before the interview.

Best

Deleted user

on Apr 24, 2018

Only A4 or letter sized paper, no A3/placemat, no pre-draws. Both pen and pencil are fine. Black or blue.

Hope it helps,

Andrea

Deleted user

on Jan 21, 2021

Bringing paper is fine, but I would not come with printed templates.