McKinsey Solve 2025: Complete Imbellus Guide + 7-Day AI Practice Plan
*Last updated: 20 Aug 2025 *
McKinsey's digital assessment, known as McKinsey Solve (formerly the Imbellus Game), has become the first major hurdle in the consulting recruitment process. This computer-based assessment evaluates your problem-solving skills through interactive simulations that mirror real consulting challenges.
Unlike traditional case interviews, McKinsey Solve tests your ability to think systematically, analyze data, and adapt to changing scenarios—all within a digital environment that tracks your decision-making process in real-time.
TL;DR - What You Need to Know
- Format: 60-90 minute computer-based assessment with 2-3 interactive modules
- Modules: Ecosystem Building (nature simulation), Data Analysis tasks, and newer logic-based challenges
- Scoring: Based on process, not just outcomes—McKinsey tracks your approach and reasoning
- Timeline: Typically administered before first-round interviews, varies by office
- Practice: Limited official materials available; third-party simulations and AI coaching fill the gap
What is McKinsey Solve in 2025?
McKinsey Solve is McKinsey & Company's proprietary digital assessment that evaluates candidates' cognitive abilities and problem-solving approaches through interactive simulations. Developed by Imbellus (acquired by Roblox in 2022), the assessment aims to predict consulting performance more accurately than traditional interviews alone.
The assessment typically takes place at a McKinsey office or approved testing center, though some regions offer remote proctoring. Candidates usually receive 48-72 hours' notice and must complete the assessment within a specified timeframe.
2025 Updates and Changes
Recent changes to McKinsey Solve include:
- Enhanced data interpretation modules with more complex datasets
- New collaborative problem-solving scenarios (varies by region; confirm on firm's website)
- Improved adaptive difficulty that adjusts based on your performance
- Integration with behavioral assessment components in some offices
The Core Assessment Modules
Module 1: Ecosystem Building Simulation
Duration: 35-45 minutes Objective: Create a sustainable ecosystem by selecting and arranging species
In this nature-based simulation, you're tasked with creating a balanced ecosystem by choosing from various plants and animals. Each species has specific requirements (food sources, territory, climate) and contributes different benefits to the ecosystem.
Key Skills Tested:
- Systems thinking and understanding complex relationships
- Resource allocation and trade-off analysis
- Long-term planning and sustainability considerations
- Ability to balance competing constraints
Success Strategies:
- Start with foundational species (plants/producers) before adding consumers
- Pay attention to food chain relationships and energy flow
- Monitor resource consumption vs. regeneration rates
- Adapt your strategy based on ecosystem feedback
Module 2: Data Analysis and Pattern Recognition
Duration: 20-30 minutes Objective: Identify patterns, trends, and insights from complex datasets
This module presents various data visualization challenges, from simple charts to multi-dimensional datasets. You'll need to quickly identify trends, outliers, and relationships while drawing actionable insights.
Key Skills Tested:
- Data interpretation and pattern recognition
- Quantitative reasoning and mental math
- Hypothesis formation and testing
- Communication of insights through data
Success Strategies:
- Practice reading different chart types: bar, line, scatter, heat maps
- Focus on identifying the "so what" - why patterns matter
- Look for correlations, causations, and outliers
- Use mental math techniques to verify calculations quickly
Module 3: Logic and Reasoning Challenges
Duration: 15-25 minutes Objective: Solve abstract logic puzzles and sequence problems
The newest addition to McKinsey Solve focuses on pure logical reasoning through abstract shapes, sequences, and pattern completion tasks. These challenges test your ability to identify underlying rules and apply them systematically.
Key Skills Tested:
- Abstract reasoning and pattern recognition
- Logical rule identification and application
- Systematic problem-solving approach
- Cognitive flexibility and adaptation
Success Strategies:
- Look for multiple dimensions of change: color, size, position, quantity
- Test hypotheses systematically rather than guessing
- Use elimination methods when multiple options seem viable
- Stay calm and methodical even when puzzles seem complex
Ready to Practice? Try Our Free McKinsey Solve Simulator
Experience realistic Ecosystem Building and Data Analysis modules with instant feedback on your approach and decision-making process.
How McKinsey Scores Your Performance
Unlike traditional tests, McKinsey Solve evaluates your process as much as your outcomes. The assessment tracks:
Process Metrics
- Decision-making speed: How quickly you process information and make choices
- Systematic approach: Whether you follow logical problem-solving sequences
- Adaptability: How well you adjust strategies based on new information
- Resource management: Efficiency in using available tools and time
Outcome Metrics
- Final results: The quality and sustainability of your solutions
- Optimization: Whether you achieve efficient, well-balanced outcomes
- Innovation: Creative approaches that go beyond obvious solutions
- Consistency: Reliable performance across different challenge types
What McKinsey Doesn't Score
- Speed alone: Fast but wrong decisions score lower than thoughtful correct ones
- Perfect outcomes: McKinsey values learning from mistakes and iteration
- Prior knowledge: No specific business knowledge required
- Test-taking tricks: The assessment is designed to resist gaming
Your 7-Day AI-Powered Practice Plan
This structured practice routine uses AI coaching to build the specific skills McKinsey Solve tests, with progressively challenging exercises each day.
Days 1-2: Ecosystem Foundation
Focus: Systems thinking and relationship mapping
Day 1 Practice:
- 2 ecosystem simulation rounds (15 minutes each)
- Focus on understanding species relationships
- Practice with our AI Coach for real-time strategy feedback
Day 2 Practice:
- 3 ecosystem rounds with increasing complexity
- Learn to balance multiple constraint types
- Study feedback patterns on resource allocation decisions
Days 3-4: Data Mastery
Focus: Pattern recognition and quantitative reasoning
Day 3 Practice:
- Chart interpretation drills (20 different chart types)
- Practice mental math calculations under time pressure
- Use AI feedback to improve insight generation speed
Day 4 Practice:
- Complex multi-dataset analysis challenges
- Focus on identifying correlations vs. causations
- Build skills in communicating data-driven insights
Days 5-6: Logic and Integration
Focus: Abstract reasoning and module combination
Day 5 Practice:
- Logic puzzle sequences (increasing difficulty)
- Pattern recognition speed drills
- Practice systematic elimination methods
Day 6 Practice:
- Integrated challenges combining all skill areas
- Full-length simulation practice rounds
- AI coaching on decision-making consistency
Day 7: Final Simulation
Focus: Full assessment practice under realistic conditions
Complete Practice Assessment:
- 90-minute full simulation
- Realistic testing environment (no interruptions)
- Comprehensive performance analysis
- Strategy refinement based on results
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake 1: Overthinking Simple Solutions
Many candidates assume complex problems require complex solutions. Sometimes the most elegant answer is also the simplest.
Fix: Start with basic approaches and add complexity only when needed.
Mistake 2: Ignoring Process Feedback
The assessment provides subtle feedback through system responses. Candidates often miss these cues while focusing only on final outcomes.
Fix: Pay attention to intermediate results and system responses that indicate whether you're on the right track.
Mistake 3: Rushing Through Instructions
In anxiety to start problem-solving, many candidates skim instructions and miss crucial constraints or objectives.
Fix: Invest 2-3 minutes fully understanding each module's requirements before beginning.
Mistake 4: Abandoning Strategies Too Quickly
When initial approaches don't immediately work, candidates often abandon them entirely rather than iterating and improving.
Fix: Give strategies time to develop, but be ready to adapt based on results.
Mistake 5: Focusing Only on Perfect Scores
McKinsey values learning, adaptation, and systematic thinking over flawless execution.
Fix: Demonstrate your problem-solving process clearly, even when making course corrections.
After McKinsey Solve: Preparing for Live Cases
Success in McKinsey Solve typically leads to first-round case interviews. The skills that help in the digital assessment—systematic thinking, data interpretation, and adaptability—directly translate to live case performance.
Key Skill Transfers
- Systems thinking → MECE case structuring
- Data analysis → Chart interpretation in case interviews
- Adaptability → Handling case pivots and new information
- Process focus → Demonstrating clear reasoning in live discussions
Next Preparation Steps
- Master case structure: Build on your systematic Solve approach with advanced case frameworks
- Develop behavioral stories: Prepare for McKinsey's Personal Experience Interview using the behavioral interview playbook
- Practice integration: Use AI-generated case prompts that combine analytical and interpersonal challenges
Practice Resources and Tools
Official McKinsey Resources
McKinsey provides limited official practice materials on their careers page. These include:
- Sample ecosystem screenshots and instructions
- General guidance on assessment format and timing
- Information about testing center procedures and requirements
Third-Party Practice Platforms
Several established prep companies offer McKinsey Solve simulations:
- MConsultingPrep: Ecosystem building practice with performance analytics
- CaseBasix: Interactive modules covering all assessment areas
- CasePrepared AI Coach: Real-time feedback on decision-making patterns and systematic approaches
Self-Study Methods
- Pattern recognition: Practice with visual pattern tests and logic puzzles
- Data interpretation: Use business datasets to practice trend identification
- Systems thinking: Study ecosystem dynamics and complex system behaviors
- Time management: Practice making quality decisions under time pressure
Master McKinsey Solve with AI Coaching
Take your preparation to the next level with our AI Coach that provides real-time feedback on your problem-solving approach, tracks your progress across all modules, and adapts practice difficulty to your skill level.
✓ Unlimited McKinsey Solve simulations ✓ Real-time strategy feedback ✓ Performance analytics and improvement recommendations ✓ Integration with case interview prep
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long is the McKinsey Solve assessment? A: The assessment typically takes 60-90 minutes total, with 2-3 modules of varying lengths. Exact timing may vary by region and office—confirm current format on McKinsey's careers website.
Q: Can I retake McKinsey Solve if I don't pass? A: McKinsey's retake policy varies by region. Generally, candidates must wait 12-24 months before reapplying. Check with your target office's recruiting team for specific policies.
Q: Do I need business knowledge for McKinsey Solve? A: No. The assessment focuses on cognitive abilities and problem-solving skills rather than business knowledge. However, consulting case interview skills like systematic thinking do help.
Q: Is McKinsey Solve the same as the Imbellus Game? A: Yes. McKinsey Solve was developed by Imbellus and was previously called the "Imbellus Game." The core assessment remains the same despite the rebrand.
Q: Can I use a calculator during McKinsey Solve? A: The assessment typically provides built-in calculation tools where needed. External calculators are generally not permitted, making mental math skills valuable.
Q: How important is McKinsey Solve compared to case interviews? A: McKinsey Solve is a screening tool that determines whether you advance to case interviews. Strong performance is necessary but not sufficient—you'll still need to excel in live case and behavioral interviews.
Q: Are there different versions of McKinsey Solve for different roles? A: The core assessment is consistent across most consulting roles, but some specialized positions may include additional modules. Business analyst and associate positions typically use the same assessment format.
Q: What happens if there are technical issues during my assessment? A: Testing centers have protocols for technical problems. Notify the proctor immediately if you experience issues. McKinsey typically allows retakes if technical problems significantly impact your performance.
Research sources: McKinsey & Company careers website, MConsultingPrep analysis, CaseBasix practice guides, Management Consulted preparation advice, and PrepLounge community insights.