Consulting case interviews are time-constrained. You usually have 30–45 minutes to analyze a problem, walk through your structure, perform calculations, and deliver a recommendation. That means time management isn’t optional — it’s a core part of the evaluation.
This article covers how to stay on track, adapt your pacing, and guide the interviewer through your thought process.
1. Think in Phases
Structure your case into 4 phases and pace accordingly:
- Opening (5 min): Clarify objective + present structure
- Analysis (20–25 min): Deep dive into 2–3 branches
- Math + exhibits (5–10 min): Charts, calculations
- Recommendation (2–3 min): Synthesize and conclude
Keep mental track of the time spent per phase. If you’re 20 minutes in and haven’t hit any math, you may need to accelerate.
2. Use Verbal Signposts
Guide your interviewer through the case with brief statements that frame where you are and what’s next.
“Let me start with a quick recap of the objective…”
“Now I’ll walk through my framework — I’ve broken it into three buckets.”
“That covers the cost side. Next, I’d like to explore revenue.”
This shows that you’re driving the structure, not just reacting.
3. Don’t Go Too Deep Too Early
Many candidates get stuck in one branch of their framework and lose time. If a sub-issue looks complex, briefly acknowledge it, then suggest how you'd analyze it if time allows.
“This seems like a rich area to explore. If we had more time, I’d want to segment customer churn by product line.”
Stay moving — you’ll often get bonus points for breadth + prioritization.
4. React to the Interviewer’s Signals
Watch for cues: are they leaning in and nodding? Or checking their watch?
- Fast follow-ups? You’re moving too slow — tighten your explanation.
- Interruptions? They may be pushing toward a key issue — follow that thread.
- Long silences? You might need to re-engage them by summarizing where you are.
5. Synthesize Along the Way
Don’t save your synthesis for the end — build it in throughout the case.
“So far, we’ve seen that fixed costs are stable, but variable costs are rising — likely due to higher supplier prices.”
This shows progress, reinforces structure, and helps you manage time by avoiding repetition later.
Final Thoughts
The best candidates make the case feel like a guided tour, not a scavenger hunt. They manage the clock, stay flexible, and communicate proactively.
Own the pacing. Guide the listener. Stay in control.