CPA Exam Study Tips and Strategies

Jul 29, 2024

CPA Exam Study Tips

Introduction

  • The speaker shares personal tips and tricks for studying for the CPA exam, particularly focusing on the FAR section.

Key Resources

  • Becker Course
    • Recommended study material for CPA exam preparation.
    • Employer covered all costs - great benefit.
    • Different packages available with various pricing.

Packages Overview

  • Three Becker Packages Available:
    • Each package offers different features and content duration.
    • Pro Package:
      • Currently has a $1,300 discount.
      • Includes extensive resources, including final review capstone course.
      • Recommended if the discount is available; otherwise evaluate the cost.
    • Advantage Package:
      • More than enough for many students.
      • Suggest doing additional note-taking and reviewing.
    • Premium Package:
      • Cheaper but includes less substantial resources.

Study Strategy

  • Study Timeline:
    • Took about 5 weeks to finish the Becker materials.
    • Studied 2-4 modules daily.

Study Process

  1. Read the Module:
    • Focused reading before watching lectures.
  2. Watch Lectures:
    • Recommended watching at 1.5x speed for efficiency.
  3. Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs):
    • Completed all MCQs and reviewed wrong answers.
  4. Final Review Book:
    • Used it to summarize learned material and reinforce understanding.
    • Tried to complete as much as time allowed before exams.
  5. Mock Exams:
    • Completed three mock exams leading up to test date.
    • Scored varied results, indicating steady improvement.

Exam Day Insights

  • What to expect on the exam day:
    • Present ID and enter private testing space.
    • Provided with paper, a pen, and a simple calculator.
    • Excel feature available within the testing software for calculations.
  • Post Exam Feelings:
    • Many feel uncertain immediately after but often perform better than expected.

Key Takeaways

  • Consistent Preparation:
    • Stay mentally strong and keep reviewing difficult topics over time.
  • Stay Positive:
    • Mental endurance is crucial; stress less and trust the preparation you’ve done.

Conclusion

  • Encouragement to stay committed to studying and consistency will lead to success in passing the CPA exam.
  • Open invitation to ask questions or share experiences in the comments.

Final Thoughts

  • You Can Do It!
    • With diligent study and a positive mindset, passing the CPA is achievable!