Explain qualitative vs. quantitative reasoning.
Consulting is all about making judgments and best-case scenarios based on logic, analysis, and reasoning. The interviewer would like to see that you understand the difference between qualitative and quantitative reasoning, and when each is best used. Qualitative reasoning is best for problems related to processes, controls, and diagnosis. Quantitative reasoning is more related to the gathering of facts, and hard data. Keep your reply simple, and easy to understand.
"When researching, I find that quantitative data is best to gather first, as it's more fact-based. After gathering the quantitative data, I can bring in qualitative research, since it is more related to the reasoning behind the hard data."
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Anonymous Answer
Qualitative reasoning is best for problems related to processes, controls, and diagnosis. Quantitative reasoning is more related to the gathering of facts, and hard data.
Quantitative research is objective, while qualitative research is subjective.
Marcie's Feedback
Great! It's clear from your response that you understand both of these concepts, which the interviewer will appreciate. Can you include an example of a time when you used these different kinds of reasoning?
