How long should the answer be?

Aim for 45 to 60 seconds unless the interviewer asks to go deeper.

What makes the answer strong?

Specific proof points, ownership, and a clear personal catalyst.

Why Investment Banking: 45-Second Answer Script (2025)

A strong Why IB framework with two proof points, a personal catalyst, and a 45-second answer that sounds specific, owned, and credible without sounding canned.

Simple framework

Thesis: one line on what you like about the work.
Proof: two concrete experiences with numbers.
Personal catalyst: one moment that made it click.

45-second example

"I like decisions where small numbers matter. Last semester I rebuilt pricing for a $12M SKU and a 2-point lift paid back in one quarter. Banking lets me apply that judgment at scale. I also enjoyed building a comps set for a healthcare project, which made me want more exposure to deal work."

Common mistakes

Generic claims without ownership or numbers.
Only talking about prestige or hours.
Forgetting the personal catalyst.

Use the scripts in Behavioral + Networking for IB and the rubric in Behavioral Scoring Rubric.