Buffettology Workbook by Mary Buffett Summary

The Buffettology Workbook is a practical guide to applying Warren Buffett’s value investing strategies, focusing on mathematical ratios and business analysis. It pairs with Mary Buffett’s original Buffettology to teach readers how to evaluate stocks using Buffett’s criteria, such as earnings per share and consumer monopolies. The workbook includes exercises, case studies (e.g., Coca-Cola), and tools to identify undervalued companies.

This book is ideal for investors seeking to adopt Warren Buffett’s long-term, business-focused approach. It suits both beginners learning value investing fundamentals and experienced investors refining their analysis skills. Readers interested in hands-on financial calculations, portfolio-building strategies, or Buffett’s focus on consumer monopolies will find actionable insights.

Yes, for investors committed to mastering Buffett’s methods. Unlike theoretical guides, this workbook provides step-by-step exercises, formulas (e.g., calculating intrinsic value), and real-world examples to practice identifying undervalued stocks. However, its technical focus on ratios may challenge casual readers.

While Buffettology explains Warren Buffett’s philosophy, the workbook offers practical tools to implement it. It expands on concepts like “business perspective investing” with worksheets, financial templates, and problem-solving exercises. Together, they provide a complete framework for analyzing companies like Buffett.

The book emphasizes calculations for:

• Earnings per share (EPS) growth to assess profitability.
• Return on equity (ROE) to measure management efficiency.
• Intrinsic value to determine a stock’s true worth.

These formulas help investors avoid overpaying for stocks and focus on companies with durable competitive advantages.

It outlines Buffett’s criteria, such as seeking companies with:

• Consumer monopolies (strong brand loyalty).
• Consistent earnings growth (10+ years).
• High ROE (above 15%).

Readers learn to analyze financial statements, calculate key metrics, and wait for market downturns to buy at discounted prices.

The workbook references Buffett’s investments in companies like Coca-Cola, American Express, and Gillette. These examples illustrate how to apply ratio analysis, assess management quality, and recognize “economic moats” that protect a company from competitors.

It addresses pitfalls like:

• Overreacting to market volatility.
• Ignoring a company’s long-term economics.
• Paying premium prices for trendy stocks.

By focusing on intrinsic value and durable businesses, readers learn to build resilient portfolios.

It frames downturns as opportunities to buy quality stocks at discounted prices. Exercises guide readers in calculating margin of safety, identifying panic-selling moments, and maintaining discipline—key to Buffett’s success during crises like the 2008 recession.

Some readers find its heavy focus on manual calculations outdated in an era of automated tools. Others note it assumes familiarity with financial terms, making it less accessible to absolute beginners. However, its structured approach remains valuable for detail-oriented investors.

Unlike generic advice in many investing books, this workbook offers Buffett-specific strategies with actionable steps. It contrasts with speculative guides by emphasizing long-term value, financial rigor, and patience. For a broader philosophy, pair it with The Essays of Warren Buffett.

• Focus on business quality, not stock prices.
• Master financial ratios to avoid overvalued stocks.
• Build a “circle of competence” by investing in industries you understand.

These principles, paired with the workbook’s exercises, help create a disciplined, Buffett-like portfolio.