CA Articleship Interview Questions 2026: 50+ Answers

CA Articleship Interview Questions 2026: 50+ Questions with Expert Answers

Author Bio: Vicky Sarin, CA | 25+ years post-qualification experience | INSEAD ILPSE Alumni

Introduction: What's Changed in CA Articleship Interviews for 2026

The articleship interview landscape has transformed dramatically since I started my career. Back then, interviews focused almost entirely on technical knowledge—depreciation methods, journal entries, and audit procedures. Today's partners want something different.

They want articled assistants who understand AI-assisted auditing, ESG reporting frameworks, and Ind AS complexities. They want candidates who can demonstrate adaptability in a profession undergoing rapid technological disruption.

Having conducted over 500 articleship interviews across Big 4 firms and mid-sized practices, I can tell you this: the candidates who succeed aren't necessarily the toppers. They're the ones who prepare strategically, communicate clearly, and demonstrate genuine curiosity about the profession.

This guide reflects the 2026 interview reality—updated questions, modern expectations, and practical answers that work. Whether you're targeting a Big 4 firm or a boutique practice, these questions will prepare you for what actually gets asked.

For foundational understanding of the CA qualification pathway, review our comprehensive guide first.

Part 1: Personal & HR Questions (Questions 1-15)

Opening Questions

1. Tell me about yourself.

What they're assessing: Communication skills, self-awareness, relevance to the role.

Model Answer: "I'm a CA Intermediate student who cleared both groups in my first attempt with 62% aggregate. Beyond academics, I've developed practical exposure through a three-month internship at a tax consultancy firm where I assisted with GST return filings and ITR preparation. I'm particularly drawn to audit work because I enjoy the investigative aspect of verifying financial information. I chose to apply here because your firm's specialization in manufacturing sector audits aligns with my interest in understanding complex operational cycles."

Pro Tip: Keep it under 90 seconds. Structure as: Academic credentials → Practical exposure → Why this firm.

2. Why do you want to pursue CA articleship?

Model Answer: "Articleship represents the bridge between theoretical knowledge and professional competence. While my CA studies gave me conceptual understanding of audit procedures, I recognize that real learning happens when you're examining actual financial records, interacting with clients, and working under time pressure. I'm eager to experience the complete audit cycle—from planning to reporting—under experienced guidance. The three-year articleship is where chartered accountants are truly made, and I want to maximize this learning opportunity."

3. Why should we select you over other candidates?

Model Answer: "I bring three qualities that I believe will add immediate value. First, I have strong analytical skills demonstrated by my academic performance and my ability to identify discrepancies during my internship—I once caught a ₹3.2 lakh reconciliation error that had been missed for two quarters. Second, I'm technologically adaptable; I've self-learned Tally ERP, Excel advanced functions, and basic data analytics using Python. Third, I'm genuinely curious—I don't just complete tasks, I ask why things are done a certain way, which helps me learn faster and contribute more meaningfully."

4. What do you know about our firm?

Model Answer: "I've researched your firm extensively. You were established in [year] and have grown to [X] partners with specialization in [specific sectors]. I noticed from your website that you recently added forensic audit services to your practice, which interests me greatly. Your client portfolio includes [mention 2-3 known clients if publicly available], and I've read that your firm emphasizes structured training programs for articled assistants. The partner-to-article ratio here appears favorable for learning, which is one reason I prioritized applying here."

Warning: Never bluff. If you don't know, admit it and express willingness to learn about the firm.

Behavioral & Situational Questions

5. Describe a challenging situation you faced and how you handled it.

Model Answer (STAR Method):

• Situation: "During my CA Inter preparation, I was simultaneously handling a family medical emergency that required frequent hospital visits."
• Task: "I needed to maintain my study schedule while supporting my family."
• Action: "I restructured my study plan, shifting to early morning sessions and using audio lectures during hospital waiting times. I also joined a study group for accountability and focused on high-weightage topics when time was limited."
• Result: "I cleared both groups in my first attempt with 58%, which taught me that effective time management and prioritization can overcome significant obstacles."

6. How do you handle tight deadlines and pressure?

Model Answer: "I've learned that pressure management starts with prevention. When I receive any task, I immediately break it down into components and estimate time for each. During my internship, we had a situation where three GST returns were due simultaneously. I created a priority matrix based on filing deadlines and penalty implications, delegated data compilation to juniors while I focused on complex reconciliations, and maintained hourly check-ins with my supervisor. We filed all returns on time without errors. The key is staying organized and communicating proactively when obstacles arise."

7. Tell me about a time you disagreed with a senior. How did you handle it?

Model Answer: "During my internship, my supervisor asked me to adjust a client's sales figure to match their GST return without investigating the discrepancy. I respectfully pointed out that the difference was ₹47,000, which seemed significant enough to warrant verification. I suggested we first check for timing differences or unrecorded credit notes before making adjustments. My supervisor appreciated the approach, and we discovered an unrecorded sales return that explained the variance. I learned that respectful disagreement, backed by logical reasoning, is valued in our profession."

8. How do you handle constructive criticism?

Model Answer: "I actively seek feedback because I recognize I'm in the learning phase. During my internship, my supervisor pointed out that my working papers lacked sufficient cross-referencing, making review difficult. Initially, I felt defensive, but I asked for examples of well-documented files, studied them, and created a personal checklist for documentation. Within two weeks, my supervisor noted significant improvement. Criticism highlights blind spots I can't see myself, so I treat it as valuable input rather than personal attack."

9. Where do you see yourself in five years?

Model Answer: "In five years, I aim to be a qualified Chartered Accountant with strong expertise in statutory audit, having completed my articleship with comprehensive exposure across industries. I want to be at a stage where I can independently handle audit engagements from planning to finalization and mentor junior articled assistants. I'm also interested in developing specialization in one area—possibly IFRS or forensic accounting—depending on the opportunities I encounter during articleship. My goal is to add value to whichever firm I'm with, not just hold a designation."

10. What are your strengths and weaknesses?

Model Answer:

Strengths: "My primary strength is attention to detail—I naturally notice inconsistencies in numbers, which helped me identify errors during my internship. I'm also a fast learner; I picked up Tally operations within a week of joining my internship firm. Additionally, I communicate clearly, both in writing and verbally, which helps in client interactions and documentation."

Weakness: "I sometimes spend more time than necessary perfecting work that's already acceptable. During my internship, I spent extra hours formatting reports when the content was already approved. I'm working on this by setting time limits for each task and asking supervisors to define 'good enough' standards upfront."

11-15: Additional HR Questions

11. Why did you choose CA over other careers?

Focus on: Combination of financial expertise, business advisory, and professional respect. Mention specific incidents that drew you to accounting.

12. How do you stay updated with accounting developments?

Mention: ICAI publications, financial news (Economic Times, Mint), CA study groups, LinkedIn communities, ICAI webinars.

13. What motivates you professionally?

Discuss: Learning new industries through audits, solving complex problems, contributing to financial transparency.

14. How would your professors/colleagues describe you?

Be honest but strategic. Use specific feedback you've received.

15. Do you have any questions for us?

Always ask: Training structure, variety of assignments, partner accessibility, firm's growth plans.

For comprehensive interview preparation strategies, explore our accounting interview questions guide.

Part 2: Technical Questions (Questions 16-35)

Accounting Fundamentals

16. Explain the accounting equation and its significance.

Model Answer: "The accounting equation—Assets = Liabilities + Equity—is the foundation of double-entry bookkeeping. Every transaction affects at least two accounts while maintaining this balance. Its significance lies in ensuring mathematical accuracy of records, providing the basis for balance sheet preparation, and enabling detection of errors. For instance, if I record a cash purchase incorrectly as a credit to purchases, the equation won't balance, flagging the error immediately."

For deeper understanding of double-entry principles, review our detailed guide.

17. What is the difference between provisions and reserves?

Model Answer: "Provisions are amounts set aside for known liabilities of uncertain timing or amount—like provision for doubtful debts or warranty claims. They're charged against profit and appear on the liability side. Reserves are appropriations of profit, representing amounts retained for specific purposes like general reserve or dividend equalization reserve. Key difference: provisions are mandatory and reduce reported profit; reserves are discretionary and come from post-tax profits."

18. Explain depreciation and its methods.

Model Answer: "Depreciation is the systematic allocation of a depreciable asset's cost over its useful life. It recognizes that assets lose value through use, obsolescence, or time. The primary methods are:

• Straight Line Method: Equal depreciation annually. Formula: (Cost - Residual Value) ÷ Useful Life
• Written Down Value: Higher depreciation initially, declining over time. Formula: WDV × Rate
• Units of Production: Based on actual usage rather than time

The method chosen should reflect the pattern of economic benefit consumption. Under Companies Act 2013, useful lives are prescribed in Schedule II."

For comprehensive depreciation calculations with examples, see our technical guide.

19. What are accruals and prepayments?

Model Answer: "Accruals and prepayments are adjusting entries that ensure revenues and expenses are recognized in the period they're earned or incurred, regardless of cash flow timing.

Accruals represent expenses incurred but not yet paid (like salary payable) or income earned but not yet received (like accrued interest).

Prepayments represent expenses paid in advance (like prepaid rent) or income received before it's earned (like advance from customers).

These adjustments are essential for accrual-based accounting and compliance with the matching principle."

20. Explain working capital and its components.

Model Answer: "Working capital measures a company's short-term liquidity—its ability to meet day-to-day operational needs. It's calculated as Current Assets minus Current Liabilities.

Components:

• Current Assets: Cash, receivables, inventory, prepaid expenses, short-term investments
• Current Liabilities: Payables, short-term borrowings, provisions, current portion of long-term debt

Positive working capital indicates ability to cover short-term obligations. The ideal level varies by industry—manufacturing needs more due to inventory cycles; service companies typically need less."

Ind AS & Financial Reporting

21. What is the difference between Ind AS and IGAAP?

Model Answer: "Ind AS (Indian Accounting Standards) are converged with IFRS and provide a principle-based framework, while IGAAP (Indian GAAP) was more rule-based. Key differences include:

Ind AS applies to companies meeting specified thresholds, while IGAAP continues for smaller entities."

22. Explain the concept of fair value under Ind AS 113.

Model Answer: "Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. It's an exit price, not entry price.

Fair value hierarchy:

• Level 1: Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets/liabilities
• Level 2: Observable inputs other than Level 1 (similar assets, market data)
• Level 3: Unobservable inputs based on entity's own assumptions

The hierarchy prioritizes observable market inputs over internal estimates to enhance reliability."

Taxation

23. Explain the basic structure of GST in India.

Model Answer: "GST is a destination-based, multi-stage, comprehensive indirect tax on supply of goods and services. The structure includes:

Components:

• CGST: Central GST on intra-state supplies (goes to Centre)
• SGST: State GST on intra-state supplies (goes to State)
• IGST: Integrated GST on inter-state supplies (settled between Centre and States)

Key features:

• Input Tax Credit mechanism eliminates cascading
• Four rate structure: 5%, 12%, 18%, 28%
• Composition scheme for small taxpayers
• E-way bill for goods movement above ₹50,000
• Monthly/quarterly return filing based on turnover"

For detailed GST interview preparation, review our comprehensive guide.

24. What is Tax Deducted at Source (TDS)?

Model Answer: "TDS is a mechanism for collecting income tax at the source of income rather than at a later date. The payer deducts tax when making specified payments and remits it to the government on behalf of the payee.

Key aspects:

• Applicable to salary, interest, rent, professional fees, contractor payments, etc.
• Rates vary by payment type (Section 192-196)
• Quarterly returns: 24Q (salary), 26Q (non-salary)
• TDS certificates: Form 16 (salary), Form 16A (others)
• Credit reflected in Form 26AS

TDS ensures regular tax collection and reduces evasion."

Audit & Assurance

25. What is the purpose of an audit?

Model Answer: "An audit provides independent assurance that financial statements are free from material misstatement and present a true and fair view in accordance with the applicable financial reporting framework.

Key objectives:

• Enhance credibility of financial statements for stakeholders
• Detect material errors and fraud
• Ensure compliance with laws and regulations
• Improve internal controls through management letter recommendations

The auditor expresses an opinion—not absolute assurance—based on reasonable procedures and professional judgment."

26. What is the difference between internal and external audit?

Model Answer:

27. What is materiality in auditing? 

Model Answer: "Materiality is the threshold above which misstatements, individually or in aggregate, could reasonably influence economic decisions of users based on financial statements.

Determining materiality:

• Typically 0.5-1% of revenue, 1-2% of total assets, or 5-10% of profit before tax
• Qualitative factors also matter (compliance breaches, related party transactions)
• Performance materiality is set lower (typically 50-75% of overall materiality) to account for undetected misstatements

Materiality is a matter of professional judgment and is reassessed throughout the audit."

28. What are the types of audit opinions?

Model Answer: "Under SA 700-706, auditors can express four types of opinions:

Additionally, auditors may add Emphasis of Matter or Other Matter paragraphs to draw attention to specific issues without modifying the opinion."

29-35: Additional Technical Questions

29. What is the difference between vouching and verification?

Vouching traces entries to source documents (examining recorded transactions). Verification confirms existence, ownership, valuation, and disclosure of assets/liabilities.

30. Explain the concept of going concern.

Assumption that entity will continue operations for foreseeable future (at least 12 months). Auditors must evaluate indicators of going concern doubt and assess management's plans.

31. What is a bank reconciliation statement?

Statement explaining differences between cash book balance and bank statement balance due to timing differences (cheques issued but not presented, deposits in transit) and errors.

For practical examples, see our bank reconciliation statement guide.

32. Explain deferred tax concept.

Deferred tax arises from temporary differences between accounting profit and taxable profit. DTA (Deferred Tax Asset) when tax paid now exceeds future liability; DTL (Deferred Tax Liability) when current tax is less than future obligation.

33. What is revenue recognition under Ind AS 115?

Revenue recognized when performance obligations are satisfied—either at a point in time or over time. Five-step model: identify contract, identify performance obligations, determine transaction price, allocate price, recognize revenue.

34. Explain the concept of related party transactions.

Transactions between entity and parties with control, joint control, or significant influence. Requires disclosure under Ind AS 24 and AS 18. Key for auditors due to manipulation risk.

35. What is contingent liability?

Possible obligation arising from past events, confirmed only by uncertain future events beyond entity's control. Disclosed in notes, not recognized on balance sheet. Examples: pending litigation, guarantees given.

Part 3: Big 4 & Case-Based Questions (Questions 36-45)

Big 4 Specific Questions

36. Why do you want to join a Big 4 firm specifically?

Model Answer: "Big 4 firms offer unparalleled exposure in three dimensions. First, client diversity—from multinational corporations to IPO-bound startups across every industry. Second, structured learning through formal training programs, global methodologies, and access to thought leadership. Third, international mobility and network—the skills and credentials from a Big 4 articleship are recognized globally. I understand the work intensity is higher, but I believe the learning curve justifies it. I'm prepared to invest these three years fully to build a strong professional foundation."

For specific Big 4 articleship interview preparation, see our detailed guide.

37. How would you handle a situation where you discover a potential fraud during an audit?

Model Answer: "First, I would not confront anyone or make accusations. I would document my observations factually—what I found, where, and when—without drawing conclusions. Then I would immediately escalate to my supervising senior or manager, presenting only facts. The firm has established protocols for fraud investigation, and my role as an articled assistant is to report, not investigate or conclude. I would maintain strict confidentiality and not discuss findings with anyone except designated seniors. If asked to suppress findings, I would escalate further, as professional ethics require reporting suspected fraud."

38. A client pressures you to overlook a minor compliance issue. What do you do?

Model Answer: "No compliance issue is truly 'minor' from an auditor's perspective—what appears small might be symptomatic of larger control failures. I would politely but firmly explain that our professional standards don't allow overlooking non-compliance. I'd offer to help the client understand the correct treatment and, if possible, suggest how to rectify the issue. If pressure continues, I would escalate to my manager, documenting the client's request and my response. Our independence is non-negotiable—once compromised, it cannot be restored."

Case-Based Questions

39. You find a ₹50 lakh discrepancy in accounts receivable. Walk me through your approach.

Model Answer: "I would approach this systematically:

Step 1: Verify the discrepancy

• Recalculate totals to rule out arithmetic errors
• Check for cut-off issues—transactions recorded in wrong period
• Verify the comparison source (ledger vs. sub-ledger vs. confirmation)

Step 2: Analyze components

• Reconcile party-wise balances
• Check for unrecorded credit notes or returns
• Verify large/unusual items individually

Step 3: Investigate potential causes

• Timing differences in receipt recording
• Disputed amounts not properly flagged
• Potential misappropriation if pattern suggests it

Step 4: Document and escalate

• Prepare detailed reconciliation workpaper
• Present findings to senior with possible explanations
• Request client clarification with specific queries

I would not make conclusions about fraud without sufficient evidence, but I would ensure the discrepancy is fully explained before sign-off."

40. The client's inventory count shows 10% more stock than records. How do you proceed?

Model Answer: "Excess physical inventory over books is unusual and requires careful investigation:

Possible explanations:

• Purchases recorded in next period but goods received (cut-off error)
• Sales returns not yet processed in system
• Production completed but not recorded
• Errors in physical count (double counting)
• Goods received on consignment incorrectly included

My approach:

1. Verify physical count accuracy through test recounts
2. Check last few days' GRNs and goods inward registers for cut-off
3. Examine production records for recently completed items
4. Review consignment agreements for goods held on behalf of others
5. Discuss with stores manager to understand movement patterns

If unexplained, this could indicate fictitious sales recorded earlier (debiting receivables, crediting sales without actual dispatch), which would be a significant red flag requiring immediate escalation."

41-45: Additional Case Questions

41. How would you test revenue recognition for a software company?

Focus on: Contract examination, milestone deliverables, customer acceptance, SaaS vs. license distinction, deferred revenue testing, cut-off procedures.

42. Client wants to capitalize R&D expenses that don't meet criteria. Your response?

Explain Ind AS 38 criteria, document client's position, discuss with manager, if client insists, consider audit opinion implications.

43. You discover related party transactions not disclosed. Next steps?

Investigate completeness of related party list, examine transaction terms, assess materiality, require proper disclosure, evaluate management integrity if intentional omission.

44. Inventory obsolescence appears understated. How do you test?

Age analysis review, slow-moving item identification, NRV testing, subsequent sales verification, industry trend analysis, management discussion.

45. Client refuses to provide bank confirmation. Options?

Alternative procedures: bank statement verification, online banking access, reconciliation testing, cash flow analysis, consider scope limitation if inadequate.

Part 4: Technology & Current Affairs (Questions 46-50)

46. How is AI impacting the audit profession?

Model Answer: "AI is transforming audit in several ways:

Current applications:

• Data analytics for 100% population testing vs. sampling
• Anomaly detection in journal entries and transactions
• Automated document extraction and matching
• Continuous auditing and real-time risk monitoring

Impact on articled assistants:

• Routine tasks (tick-marking, vouching) increasingly automated
• Greater emphasis on judgment, skepticism, and analysis
• Need to understand data analytics and AI outputs
• Focus shifting to complex, judgmental areas

I see AI as enhancing rather than replacing auditors. The profession needs people who can interpret AI findings, apply professional judgment, and communicate with clients—skills that remain distinctly human."

47. What do you know about ESG reporting and its relevance?

Model Answer: "ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) reporting has become mandatory for top 1000 listed companies in India under BRSR (Business Responsibility and Sustainability Reporting).

Relevance to auditors:

• BRSR assurance is emerging as a new service line
• Understanding non-financial metrics and their verification
• Climate risk assessment in financial statement audits
• Going concern evaluation considering environmental factors

Key frameworks: GRI Standards, SASB, TCFD, and now ISSB's IFRS S1 and S2 for sustainability disclosure. Auditors need to develop competence in this area as ESG assurance becomes standard practice."

48. How familiar are you with accounting software and technology tools?

Model Answer: "I have working knowledge of:

• Tally ERP 9/Prime: Day-to-day accounting, GST compliance, basic reporting
• MS Excel: Advanced functions (VLOOKUP, pivot tables, conditional formatting), basic macros
• Data analytics: Basic Python for data manipulation, understanding of IDEA/ACL concepts

I'm also aware of emerging tools like:

• Audit management software: TeamMate, CaseWare
• Cloud accounting: Zoho Books, QuickBooks
• RPA tools: For automated data extraction

I'm committed to continuous learning in technology—I recently completed an online course on data visualization and am exploring Power BI."

49. What recent accounting/regulatory changes should CA students be aware of?

Model Answer: "Key 2025-26 developments include:

Accounting:

• ISSB standards (IFRS S1, S2) for sustainability reporting
• Amendments to Ind AS 1 on disclosure of accounting policies
• Ind AS 117 (Insurance Contracts) implementation

Taxation:

• New TDS provisions and compliance requirements
• GST amendments affecting ITC eligibility
• Direct tax code discussions

Audit:

• SA 600 revision for group audits
• Enhanced auditor reporting requirements
• Quality management standards (SQM 1, SQM 2)

Regulatory:

• NFRA's increased oversight and quality reviews
• ICAI's focus on ethical standards
• Companies Act amendments"

50. Do you have any questions for us?

Suggested questions to ask:

1. "What does a typical week look like for an articled assistant during peak season versus regular periods?"
2. "How does the firm approach training and development for articled assistants? Are there formal learning programs?"
3. "What industries or clients would I primarily be working with in my first year?"
4. "How accessible are partners and managers for guidance and mentorship?"
5. "What qualities distinguish articled assistants who perform exceptionally well here?"

Avoid asking: Immediate questions about stipend, leaves, or work hours—save these for after selection or HR discussions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What questions are asked in CA articleship interview?

CA articleship interviews typically cover four categories: (1) Personal/HR questions about yourself, motivations, and goals; (2) Technical questions on accounting basics, Ind AS, taxation, and audit; (3) Behavioral questions using STAR method to assess soft skills; and (4) Situational questions testing judgment in practical scenarios. Big 4 firms additionally include case-based questions and group discussions. Prepare 2-3 strong examples for behavioral questions and revise CA Inter syllabus for technical questions.

How should I prepare for Big 4 articleship interviews?

Big 4 preparation requires: (1) Strong technical foundation in accounting and audit concepts; (2) Research on the specific firm's culture, services, and recent news; (3) Practice case-based scenarios involving audit findings and ethical dilemmas; (4) Prepare STAR method responses for behavioral questions; (5) Demonstrate knowledge of technology and data analytics; (6) Show genuine enthusiasm for learning and long working hours. Mock interviews with seniors who've been through Big 4 interviews provide invaluable practice.

What is the ideal answer length for articleship interviews?

Keep answers between 60-120 seconds for most questions. Technical questions may require longer explanations, but structure them clearly. For "tell me about yourself," aim for 90 seconds covering academics, practical exposure, and motivation. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions—this naturally creates appropriate length. Avoid one-word answers, but also don't ramble. Practice timing yourself during preparation.

How important is CA Inter percentage for articleship selection?

While high percentages open doors at Big 4 and top mid-size firms (typically 55%+ preferred), many excellent firms value attitude and communication alongside academics. First-attempt clearance often matters more than percentage. During interviews, percentages get you shortlisted; your performance determines selection. Candidates with moderate percentages who demonstrate strong technical knowledge, excellent communication, and genuine enthusiasm frequently get selected over toppers who interview poorly.

What should I wear to a CA articleship interview?

For men: Formal shirt (light colors preferred), formal trousers, leather shoes, minimal accessories. Tie optional but recommended for Big 4. For women: Formal salwar-kameez, saree, or western formals (blazer with trousers/skirt). Avoid heavy jewelry and strong perfumes. Overall: Clean, pressed clothes, neat grooming, and professional appearance. First impressions matter—dress as if you're already working at the firm.

How do I handle technical questions I don't know?

Never bluff—auditors value integrity above all. Say: "I'm not entirely certain about [specific aspect], but based on my understanding, [share what you know]. I would be happy to research this further." Alternatively: "I haven't encountered this specific scenario yet, but my approach would be to [logical thought process]." Interviewers appreciate honesty and logical thinking over fabricated answers. Follow up by actually learning the topic—you may be asked again in subsequent rounds.

Interview Preparation Checklist

One Week Before:

•  Revise CA Inter syllabus—especially accounting entries, depreciation, and audit procedures
•  Research target firms thoroughly—website, LinkedIn, news articles
•  Prepare 5 STAR method stories for behavioral questions
•  Practice "tell me about yourself" until natural
•  Review current affairs in accounting/tax
•  Arrange formal interview attire

One Day Before:

•  Confirm interview time, location, and contact person
•  Prepare documents—resume, marksheets, ID proof, photographs
•  Plan route and timing (arrive 15 minutes early)
•  Get adequate sleep
•  Review your research notes on the firm

Interview Day:

•  Light breakfast—avoid heavy food
•  Carry extra copies of documents
•  Switch phone to silent
•  Maintain positive body language
•  Listen carefully before answering
•  Ask thoughtful questions when invited

For post-interview follow-up, see our guide on thank you emails after interviews.

Closing Remarks

Twenty-five years ago, I walked into my first articleship interview with sweaty palms and a head full of textbook knowledge. The partner asked me one question I'll never forget: "What will you do when you encounter something you've never seen before?"

I fumbled through an answer about asking seniors and consulting textbooks. He smiled and said, "That's the right answer. Because in this profession, you'll encounter new situations every day. What matters is honesty about what you don't know and persistence in finding answers."

That lesson has guided my entire career.