I've been trying to pass the IBD (Investment Banking Deal) certification for almost a year now and honestly I was starting to think it just wasn't for me. First attempt I went in underprepared, scored a 61 when I needed a 72. Second time I studied harder but crammed the wrong stuff — spent way too much time on accounting basics when the exam is way heavier on valuation and deal structuring than I expected.
What turned things around for me was finding a decent IBD practice test that actually matched the real question style. Once I could see where my gaps were, I built a proper study guide around those weak spots instead of just rereading textbooks. Took me about 6 weeks of focused prep, maybe 90 minutes a night.
Anyone else here been through multiple attempts? I sit for my third in three weeks and I'm feeling cautiously optimistic. Would love to hear what exam tips worked for you — especially around the capital markets section, that one still trips me up.