3 Useful Ways to Get Through Your CPA Exam
Are you an aspiring accountant? If so, you might currently be in the process of preparing for your CPA exam. The CPA exam has a notorious reputation for being difficult, but with that in mind, there are some steps you can take to help you feel more confident about securing a pass. Let’s discover 3 useful strategies to improve your chances of getting the results you need to kick start your accounting career.
Choose Your Study Resources Carefully
CPA exam review courses are a popular way to build a study plan that meets your needs. There are a number of courses out there that can reduce your study time, increase your efficiency and help you to pass the CPA exam sooner. However, how do you know which course is right for you? Your study materials can make a huge difference to your CPA journey, so before committing to any decisions, take some time to review the different courses out there.
Two of the most commonly cited programs, which are worth researching in more detail, are Surgent and Roger CPA Review. When deciding on a CPA review course, it is useful to consider elements such as course expiration time periods, availability of updates, and any assessments that might also be included as standard. Consequently, although both of these course reviews involve dedicating a large amount of time to studying, finding which one you prefer is more a case of personal preference based on your expectations and learning style.
Consider Your Learning Style
Learning styles are intended to identify how people learn best. Based on your strengths and study preferences, there is growing evidence to suggest that matching teaching to your preferred learning style can make the studying process more enjoyable and therefore conducive to exam success. One useful model of learning styles that can be useful is the VARK method.
If you prefer learning using different formats such as charts, diagrams and plans, then you have leanings towards a visual learning style. Aural learners explore concepts through discussions, stories, and guest speakers. Learners who prefer lists, notes and text, have a read/write learning style. Finally, kinesthetic learners use their senses, practical exercises and examples to further their understanding. Above all, in applying VARK learning styles to the CPA exam, try to explore topics in ways that are relevant to you, be that through textbooks, video lectures, or flashcard notes to ensure you understand the basic concepts.
Schedule Your Revision
Although there is no perfect time to take your CPA exam, starting your revision as soon as possible leaves you less time to procrastinate. Distractions are one of the main reasons why people find it more difficult to pass. As long as you meet the state specific, education, residency, age and citizenship requirements, now is the time to begin preparing. Studying can seem like a daunting process, which is why it is so important to give yourself time to cover all the necessary material before the day of your exam.
Break topics down into manageable chunks and prioritise them according to how much time you need to spend on each. For instance, you might find that your knowledge of regulations surpasses your understanding of auditing and attestation. In which case you must take care not to neglect these areas. Factor in time for any unexpected events along the way that could throw off your study plans and remember to schedule revision breaks to renew focus.
Passing the CPA exam is one of the biggest hurdles in your journey to becoming an accountant. Although there is no ideal solution to ensuring you pass the exam, there are certainly things you can do to make the preparation process easier and more favourable to success.
Qualifications are one of many ways that accountants can get ahead in the world of business. For more information about the potential impact of furthering your education, take a look at this blog post about the importance of professional certifications for businesses.
