Career Tips 8 min read ·

Case Interview Preparation Timeline: 8-Week Study Plan

A structured 8-week preparation plan for consulting case interviews. Week-by-week breakdown of frameworks, practice cases, and mock interviews.

Preparing for case interviews takes sustained effort. This 8-week plan provides a structured approach whether you’re starting from scratch or refining your skills.

Week 1-2: Foundation

Goal: Learn the basics of case interview structure

  • Read “Case in Point” or watch Victor Cheng’s LOMS videos
  • Learn the 6 core frameworks (Profitability, Market Entry, M&A, Pricing, Growth, Operations)
  • Practice mental math for 15 min/day
  • Prepare 5 behavioral fit stories

Week 3-4: Structured Practice

Goal: Apply frameworks to real cases

  • Practice 2-3 cases per day (solo or video-based)
  • Focus on structuring — don’t worry about speed yet
  • Start practicing market sizing questions
  • Refine your fit stories with the STAR method

Week 5-6: Mock Interviews

Goal: Simulate real interview conditions

  • Schedule 3-4 mock interviews per week with peers
  • Practice giving and receiving feedback
  • Time yourself — cases should take 25-35 minutes
  • Work on your communication style and executive presence

Week 7-8: Peak Performance

Goal: Fine-tune and build confidence

  • Focus on weak areas identified in mocks
  • Do at least 2 professional mock interviews (coach or current consultant)
  • Practice under pressure — simulate back-to-back interviews
  • Review your notes and frameworks one final time

Key Metrics to Track

  • Total cases practiced (target: 50-80)
  • Mock interviews completed (target: 15-20)
  • Mental math accuracy (target: >90%)
  • Fit stories polished (target: 5-8 stories)