What are the "400 questions" and are they still relevant for IB interviews?
Beyond the standard 400 IB questions. A guide to mastering IB technicals, understanding the "why" behind the answers, and acing the technical interview.
The 400 Questions
The "400 Questions" originated with Mergers & Inquisitions (M&I) and Breaking Into Wall Street (BIWS). These platforms compiled technical questions on valuation, accounting, and M&A alongside behavioral prompts and industry-specific content. For non-target students, this was the first structured view into actual interviewer expectations.
The guide spread rapidly online, often as unofficial PDFs, and became the foundational study framework for IB candidates.
Continued Relevance
The 400 remains useful for three reasons:
| Factor | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Coverage | Nearly every canonical technical question appears, from DCF mechanics to three-statement linkages |
| Organization | Separates technicals from behaviorals and industry knowledge, enabling systematic study |
| Baseline | Mastery is table stakes; failure here ends your candidacy in superday rounds |
Limitations
Interviews are not recitation exercises. The 400's answers read like textbook definitions. Interviewers want concise, confident, structured delivery.
Memorization alone does not generate offers. Successful responses require:
- Accuracy: Correct concepts
- Clarity: Simple explanations without jargon
- Structure: Logical flow
- Concision: Under 90 seconds
The 400 addresses accuracy. The other three require live practice.
sign in (for free) to keep reading
14 more sections. genuinely $0. just google auth.
By continuing, you also unlock the OFFERBRIEF with weekly intel and drops, and accept our Privacy Policy.