Do not calculate everything by default. Start with the case question, identify the two or three comparisons that could change the decision, and calculate only what helps answer those questions.

Exhibits often contain more information than you need. Strong analysis is selective: you notice the major pattern, quantify the most important relationship, and connect it back to the client objective.

For example, if one segment drives most of the profit decline, calculate its change and contribution before spending time on small segments. You can always return to secondary numbers if the interviewer asks.

Practice with a simple sequence: headline, evidence, implication, next question. The case interview guide covers the broader exhibit-analysis flow.

This was a huge unlock for me. I used to turn every chart into a spreadsheet exercise.

The hard part is deciding what could actually change the recommendation, not calculating everything.