Everything you need to know about the McKinsey Problem Solving Game (the Solve assessment) — how it works, what each scenario involves, and how PSG Solver helps you prepare.
About the McKinsey PSG
What is the McKinsey Problem Solving Game (PSG)?
The McKinsey Problem Solving Game (PSG), part of the McKinsey Solve assessment, is a simulation-based test used in consulting recruitment. It places candidates in ecological scenarios to measure critical thinking, data handling, and decision-making under time pressure rather than business knowledge. It is typically sent after an application or resume screen.
Is the McKinsey PSG the same as McKinsey Solve?
Yes — PSG and McKinsey Solve refer to the same assessment. McKinsey’s official name is the Solve assessment, while Problem Solving Game is the common candidate term. Both describe the gamified, scenario-based test built around tasks like Redrock, Sea Wolf, the Sustainable Futures Lab, and the Ecosystem scenario.
How long is the McKinsey PSG?
The McKinsey PSG runs either 65 or 85 minutes, depending on your region and role. The 65-minute version typically combines two scenarios, while the 85-minute version adds the Sustainable Futures Lab behavioural module. You are told the format in your invitation, and each scenario inside has its own timer.
What scenarios are on the 2026 McKinsey PSG?
The 2026 PSG centres on three live scenarios: the Redrock Study Task (data and report analysis), Sea Wolf (an ocean-cleanup optimisation task), and the new Sustainable Futures Lab (a behavioural decision-making module). The Ecosystem Building scenario also still appears for some candidates. Older variants like Plant Defense are now rare.
How is the McKinsey PSG scored?
McKinsey scores the PSG on both your answers and how you reach them, capturing process data such as the steps you take, not just final answers. McKinsey does not publish a pass mark, and scoring differs by scenario. Accuracy, speed, and consistent decision-making all contribute, so practising the format directly is the most reliable preparation.
Is the McKinsey PSG hard to pass?
The PSG is challenging mainly because of time pressure and unfamiliar formats, not advanced maths. Most candidates struggle simply because they have never seen tasks like Redrock or Sea Wolf before. Familiarity is the biggest differentiator — candidates who practise the exact scenarios under timed conditions typically feel far more prepared on test day.
Can you prepare for the McKinsey PSG?
Yes. While you cannot predict exact numbers, the scenarios, formats, timings, and question logic stay consistent, so practising them directly is highly effective. Working through realistic Redrock, Sea Wolf, SFL, and Ecosystem simulations under timed conditions builds the speed and pattern recognition the live game rewards — exactly what PSG Solver replicates.
Do you need maths skills for the McKinsey PSG?
You need solid arithmetic and data interpretation, but not advanced maths. Redrock involves percentages, comparisons, and logical inferences from a report; Sea Wolf and Ecosystem reward pattern recognition and systematic thinking over calculation. Comfort reading data quickly and accurately under time pressure matters far more than complex formulas.
What happens after you pass the McKinsey PSG?
Passing the PSG typically moves you forward to McKinsey’s personal experience and case interviews. The game is an early screening stage designed to filter candidates before live interviews, so a strong result helps secure that next round. McKinsey assesses your result alongside the rest of your application.
Is the McKinsey Solve assessment the same worldwide?
The core scenarios are consistent globally, but the exact format varies by region and role — some candidates get the 65-minute version, others the 85-minute version with the Sustainable Futures Lab. The Sustainable Futures Lab is currently live in markets including the US, UK, Germany, and the Middle East. Your invitation confirms your format.
About PSG Solver & buying
Are PSG Solver’s practice tests based on the real McKinsey PSG?
Yes. PSG Solver’s practice tests are built from real past PSG data and replicate the exact format, timing, and question types of the live McKinsey Solve assessment — covering Redrock, Sea Wolf, the Sustainable Futures Lab, and the Ecosystem scenario. Each test includes detailed answer explanations, not just correct answers.
Do you offer a money-back guarantee?
Yes. The Ecosystem Solver carries a 30-day refund guarantee: if you fail the Ecosystem scenario within 30 days of purchase, email info@psgsolver.com with a screenshot of your result and we will issue a full refund, usually within 24 hours. The guarantee applies to the Ecosystem Solver specifically.
How quickly do I get access after buying?
Access is instant. As soon as your purchase is complete you can start your practice tests immediately, with no waiting period. This means you can prepare even if your McKinsey assessment is only a day or two away, though more lead time naturally allows for more thorough practice.
Which PSG Solver package should I choose?
Choose based on your assessment format. The Ultimate PSG Bundle covers every scenario plus the Ecosystem Solver and is the best value for most candidates. The Practice Test Bundle suits those who want all tests without the Solver, and individual Redrock, Sea Wolf, SFL, and Ecosystem packs suit candidates facing a specific scenario.
How many candidates have used PSG Solver?
Over 825 McKinsey candidates have used PSG Solver to prepare, including applicants from universities such as Stanford, Columbia, LBS, and INSEAD. The platform holds an average rating of 4.9 out of 5, reflecting consistent feedback that the practice tests closely mirror the real assessment.
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