What does an investment banking analyst really do all day? See typical tasks, hours, skills and how an investment banking course prepares you.

Investment banking is famous for long hours and steep learning. Here is what a typical analyst's week looks like and how you can prepare for it.

Morning: catching up and planning

The day often starts by reviewing emails, checking market news and clarifying priorities with associates or vice presidents. Analysts review any overnight requests and plan tasks for the day.

Core work: models, analysis and decks

Most of the time goes into three areas:

1. Financial modelling: building and updating models for companies and deals.
2. Valuation work: preparing DCF, comparable and precedent analyses.
3. Presentations: creating and revising pitch books and client materials.

Research and data collection

Analysts gather financials, industry data and transaction information from filings, databases and company materials. Accuracy is vital, because small errors can mislead clients.

Calls and meetings

Analysts join calls with senior bankers, clients, lawyers and other advisers. They may take notes, answer questions and update materials after meetings.

Evenings and deadlines

Work volume depends on the deal cycle. When a transaction is live, hours can be long. In quieter periods, schedules are lighter. Working hours vary by firm and role.

Skills that matter most

• Excel and modelling speed
• Attention to detail
• Time management
• Clear writing and formatting
• Teamwork and resilience

What the job teaches

Analysts learn how deals are priced, structured and negotiated, and build a strong foundation for careers in private equity, corporate development or advisory.

How to prepare

A practical investment banking course can bring you closer to the real work by teaching modelling, valuation and presentation skills before you start. Those who arrive with this base spend less time catching up.

Is the lifestyle for you?

Be honest about whether you enjoy intense, detail-heavy work. Speaking to current analysts gives a realistic view.

The TWSS approach

The investment banking course at TWSS focuses on practical modelling and deal analysis, aiming to prepare participants for analyst-style work .

Curious about the analyst path? Book a free career counselling call with TWSS.