Clearly spoken from the perspective of a man who's been in the same trenches as most of us are (in search of the very elusive investment role, especially the research analyst role).

As I was finishing up my preparation for the last CFA exam, it dawned on me that without any research analysis experience, it is a mere impossibility to have even the "Entry level research analyst" roles. It occurred to me that I have better start researching and writing a report on any firm (preferably a small firm with sufficient public data) to help build up my credentials and create some form of a "synthetic" experience for myself. To create a portfolio as in other industries or a website that is verifiable. Yet, I still wondered whether it will help.

Jason, thank you for this incredibly helpful, and non-self-serving article! For one, it confirms that though I'm sure it may not be enough to just write reports, it helps to learn that it can eventually payoff. Secondly, your experiences are very helpful in knowing how well or how much more needs to be done to inch our ways closer.

Question on writing a research report, how detailed an analysis would you suggest for a beginner to start with?

Having read your article, and observing the clarity at which you convey your message, I can't wait to see what you wrote in your book.