UpLevered / Middle-market private equity
The private equity desk reference.
LBO mechanics, valuation, deal structuring, and middle-market workflows, explained with worked examples, traps, checklists, and downloadable models.
Understand the mechanics
Technical deep-dives
Build the model, trace the cash, and understand what drives the return.
- LBO MechanicsHow to Build an LBO Model: Step-by-Step Guide (2026)
- ValuationEnterprise Value vs Equity Value: Complete Guide to Business Valuation Metrics
- DiligenceNet Operating Working Capital (NOWC): The PE Operator's Guide with Definitions / Examples
- Value CreationPrivate Equity Value-Creation Levers Explained
- Fund MetricsPrivate Equity DPI: The Liquidity Metric That Matters in 2026
- LBO MechanicsBeyond the Numbers: 5 Common LBO Modeling Traps (and How to Avoid Them)
Prepare for the next step
Career Playbook
Prepare for interviews, compare career paths, and navigate PE recruiting.
- RoadmapHow to Break Into Private Equity in 2026 - A No-Banking, Non-Target Roadmap
- Comp DataPrivate Equity Salary 2026: Fund Size Data + Carry Calculator
- InterviewsPrivate Equity Interview Questions: The Complete Guide for Middle-Market Professionals
- ResumePrivate Equity Resume Template (2026)
- RecruitingOff-Cycle Private Equity Recruiting Timeline (2026)
- NetworkingPrivate Equity Networking: A Step-by-Step Guide (2026)
Keep something useful
Free models & templates
Apply what you learn
Work through a case.
Start with the free case study, then try a deal decision yourself.
- PE Case Study: $150M Distribution LBO (Step-by-Step)Free case study + Excel model
- Calder Deal Room previewFree acquisition scenario and decision exercise
For timed interview practice: Project Forge LBO modeling test · $59.
Go deeper when you need to
Tools & workflows
Deal Flow Bullet
Useful PE work, by email.
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