McKinsey & Company Interview Questions, Process, and Tips

There were 2 DSA questions that we had to solve on HackerRank. One of them was a medium dynamic programming question - minimum insertions required to make a string palindrome. The other was a fairly easy question that required knowledge of permutations and combinations. We just had to figure out a maths formula given the situation.
1st round also involved a logical game that we had to play. We were scored based on coding + game and shortlisted for next round.

An interviewer joined me on zoom meet and sent a HackerRank link to a question. It was a medium dynamic programming/backtracking question. I solved it but only half the test cases ran while others threw TLE as my recursive code took exponential time.

Q1. Explain what happens after you search a url on your browser. (Had to explain the whole DNS working)
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Q2. Explain how video calling works. (Had to explain the whole OSI model)
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Q3. Asked possible causes of ClassNotFoundException and MemoryOutOfBoundException
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Q4. Asked 2 or 3 case study questions like designing a car infotainment system.
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Q5. Asked about the usefulness of OOPS.
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Q6. Asked how Java code compiles/runs(had to explain about creation of class file, JVM etc)
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Q7. Asked about working of https.
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Q1. Explain few challenges that you faced during a project/internship.
Ans. 
During my internship, I faced challenges related to communication, time management, and technical skills.
• Communication challenges: Difficulty in effectively conveying ideas and understanding instructions.

• Time management challenges: Struggling to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.

• Technical skills challenges: Learning new technologies and troubleshooting issues.

• Example for communication challenge: Working in a team whe...read more
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Q2. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Ans. 
In 5 years, I see myself as a Senior Engineer, leading a team and working on complex projects.
• I envision myself taking on more responsibilities and leading a team of engineers.

• I hope to have gained expertise in my field and be recognized as a subject matter expert.

• I aim to work on challenging projects that require problem-solving and innovation.

• I plan to continue learning and staying updated with the latest technologie...read more
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Q3. Explain a project that you did
Ans. 
Developed a mobile app for tracking daily water intake
• Used React Native framework for cross-platform development

• Implemented a user-friendly interface with intuitive design

• Integrated a database to store and retrieve user data

• Implemented push notifications to remind users to drink water

• Conducted testing and debugging to ensure app functionality
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Q4. Tell me about a conflict that you may have faced during a project/internship
Ans. 
During my internship, I faced a conflict regarding the allocation of resources for a project.
• Conflict arose when team members disagreed on the distribution of resources.

• I suggested a fair and balanced approach to allocate resources based on individual strengths and project requirements.

• We held a team meeting to discuss and resolve the conflict.

• Through open communication and compromise, we reached a consensus on resourc...read more
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Excel test
Logical Reasoning test
Quantitative aptitude test

An extensive case study for the corporate tax team that includes knowledge of US GAAP and transfer pricing.

Q1. What are the fundamental accounting concepts, accounting entries, and the applicable tax rates for various services?
Ans. 
Fundamental accounting concepts, entries, and tax rates for various services.
• Fundamental accounting concepts include accrual basis, matching principle, and consistency.

• Accounting entries for services typically involve recognizing revenue and recording expenses.

• Applicable tax rates vary depending on the type of service and the jurisdiction.

• For example, consulting services may be subject to a different tax rate than soft
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Q2. What is your understanding of transfer pricing and its applicability?
Ans. 
Transfer pricing is the setting of prices for goods and services sold between related entities within a company.
• Transfer pricing is used to determine the cost of goods and services transferred between different divisions or subsidiaries of a company.

• It is important for multinational companies to establish transfer pricing to ensure fair pricing and compliance with tax regulations.

• Transfer pricing can impact a company's...read more
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Q1. What is the amount of data you have managed in your previous roles?
Ans. 
I have managed large volumes of data in my previous roles, ranging from terabytes to petabytes.
• Managed terabytes of data in previous roles

• Handled petabytes of data in data analysis projects

• Experience with data storage and retrieval systems

• Utilized data management tools and techniques

• Implemented data governance policies and procedures
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Q2. Which ERP software have you worked with?
Ans. 
I have worked with SAP ERP software extensively in my previous roles.
• Extensive experience with SAP ERP software

• Proficient in modules such as Finance, Supply Chain, and HR

• Implemented custom solutions and integrations with SAP ERP

• Trained team members on using SAP ERP effectively
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Q1. What are your salary expectations and how do you approach negotiations?
Ans. 
I approach negotiations by researching industry standards and emphasizing my value to the company.
• Research industry standards for the position to determine a reasonable salary range.

• Highlight your skills, experience, and achievements that make you a valuable asset to the company.

• Be prepared to discuss and negotiate benefits and other perks in addition to salary.

• Stay professional and respectful during negotiations to ma...read more
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Q2. What is your preferred joining date and the notice period required by your current organization?
Ans. 
My preferred joining date is in one month and my notice period is two weeks.
• Preferred joining date: one month from now

• Notice period required by current organization: two weeks

• Flexible with joining date if needed
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The aptitude test was interesting, Had a bunch of fun puzzles

Q1. Tell me about yourself
Ans. 
I am a detail-oriented business analyst with a strong background in data analysis and problem-solving.
• Experienced in gathering and analyzing business requirements

• Skilled in creating data models and visualizations

• Proficient in using tools like SQL, Excel, and Tableau

• Strong communication and presentation skills

• Certified in business analysis (e.g. CBAP)
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Q2. Where do you see yourself in 5 years
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Q1. Fit interview with PEI
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