What is the McKinsey Solve Game?
The McKinsey Solve is a 60-70 minute online assessment that uses gamified scenarios to evaluate problem-solving ability. It replaced the McKinsey PST (Problem Solving Test) in 2020 and is required for all applicants before interview rounds.
Quick Facts
| Duration | 60-70 minutes total |
| Format | 2 gamified scenarios (order varies) |
| Where | Online, proctored via webcam |
| Pass Rate | ~30-40% (estimated) |
| Retake Policy | Once per application cycle (typically 2 years) |
| Former Name | Imbellus, PSG (Problem Solving Game) |
The Two Scenarios
1. Ecosystem Building (Solve)
Build a sustainable ecosystem by selecting 8 species from 39 options. Each species has specific food requirements, predator relationships, and calorie needs. Your goal is to create a stable food chain where all species survive.
- • Time: ~25-35 minutes
- • Key skill: Systems thinking, data synthesis
- • You can move species and terrain elements
2. Plant Defense (Redrock)
Protect a plant from disease by identifying contamination sources and creating barriers. Analyze spread patterns over multiple turns to determine the optimal defense strategy.
- • Time: ~25-35 minutes
- • Key skill: Pattern recognition, optimization
- • Limited resources require prioritization
What McKinsey Measures
The Solve assesses 5 cognitive abilities that predict consulting success:
| Ability | How It's Tested |
|---|---|
| Critical Thinking | Evaluating species data, identifying constraints |
| Decision Making | Choosing which species to include/exclude |
| Meta Cognition | Adapting strategy when initial approach fails |
| Situational Awareness | Understanding system interactions |
| Systems Thinking | Building stable, interconnected ecosystems |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I practice the McKinsey Solve beforehand?
McKinsey provides a practice environment when you receive your assessment link. No third-party tool perfectly replicates the actual games, but general puzzle games and systems-thinking exercises help build relevant skills.
What happens if I fail the Solve?
You can typically retake it after 2 years (one application cycle). Some offices may have different policies. Your case interview skills remain valuable for other consulting firms that don't use this assessment.
Is the Solve harder than the old PST?
Different, not necessarily harder. The PST was a multiple-choice math and logic test. The Solve tests different cognitive abilities through interactive scenarios. Some candidates find the gamified format less stressful than timed math problems.
Does the Solve have proctoring?
Yes. Your webcam records you during the assessment. You cannot pause, go back, or use external resources. Ensure stable internet and a quiet environment.
Related Terms
Prepare for McKinsey Interviews
After passing the Solve, you'll face case interviews and PEI. Practice both with AI-powered simulations.
Start Practicing