For every MBA aspirant, receiving a call from an IIM is a momentous occasion – but the real wo...
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IIM Interview Question
"Five people draw chits to determine who gets eliminated. What is the probability that you will be the one eliminated?"
Here’s how it can be simplified:
- There are five people (including yourself).
- Each person will take one chit.
- There is only one chit that leads to disappearance or elimination.
- The draws are random and fair.
The Logical Answer to the Question
As every one of the 5 people has an equal and independent chance of picking a name, and only one name is going to eliminate a person, there is an equal chance for all situations to happen.
- Total number of people in the competition: 5
- Number of names with eliminating potential: 1
- Total possible outcomes: 5
- Total favourable eliminating outcomes for you: 1
Thus, the probability = Favourable outcomes / Total outcomes = 1 / 5 = 0.2 or 20%.
How to Respond during the IIM Interview?
- Relax and Think Aloud – Before answering a question, the IIM interviewers are checking your thought process. Thus, start by stating everything you know and the target you're trying to identify.
- Justify Your Thought Process – Go a step further – justify why the probability is evenly distributed and show you understand it is fair random sampling.
Common Mistakes to Avoid during the interview
- Over analyzing the situation. Some candidates begin assuming things, such as, "What if I drew last?" Generally, avoid making assumptions unless specific information is given.
- Thinking instinctively and giving an answer without any explanation.
- Not simplifying your rationale for the panel.
