Exams will always come at the end of each study program. This is the time to prove what you’ve been learning by putting it into practice. As such, it is imperative to prepare for the exam and give it the best shot. Here are tips to get you prepared for your CPA exam.
Create a Study Plan
Before the exam day, you need to stay equipped with the right knowledge to pass your exams. It is best to create a study plan to guide you through your study sessions.
The plan should include the subjects to study, the time, and breaks. Be mindful of the most demanding subjects and give them more time and focus.
Get the Right Tools
Several study tools should be part of your study program. This includes books, pens, online materials, reference articles and content, and any other information suitable for your studies. Assemble the tools in time before you begin your studies to avoid distraction along the way.
Study with Determination
There is a difference between cramming information and understanding what you read. It is risky to cram what you read because you can easily forget it during the exam.
But if you take time to understand what you’re studying, it becomes easier to answer your exam questions even if they appear complicated. So, focus on grasping your notes and keep on revising to master the information well.
Stay Relaxed
Anxiety is common in most people during exams. However, you can avoid being anxious if you stay relaxed, knowing that you’ve done all you can to pass your exams.
Look for helpful study materials for the CPA test prep, such as past CPA questions, and revise them repeatedly as you also focus on your current notes. The bottom line of the matter is to get fully prepared for the exam and avoid getting anxious due to lack of preparation.
Keep Off Distractions
Your study environment determines whether you spend quality time studying or not. For an effective outcome, look for a calm environment, whether at home or in school.
Avoid busy and noisy places. Also, arrange your study area and remove anything that does not add value to your studies. Make the environment conducive to enable you to stay focused and understand what you are reading.
Take Enough Rest
While you may want to study all your notes and repeat them several times before your exam, it is good to rest between your studies. Continuous reading is not healthy for your mind and body. It can lead to fatigue, and you may not be productive the next day.
Therefore, include rest time in your timetable each day. Take a break after about four or five hours of study, go for a walk, take a nap, or meditate on something different from your studies. This helps you stay fresh and recharged for the next study session.
Look for Help
The CPA field is wide with different segments. You may not know everything, and that is just fine. However, you can improve your skills and do better by seeking mentorship from those with in-depth experience in the field.
Look for one or two mentors to walk with you through the journey until you finish your exams. Ask as many questions as possible in areas you do not understand and seek clarifications to your satisfaction.
Know the Exam Format
The last CPA exam style and format may not be the same as your upcoming exam. This is why it is imperative to understand the format and style of your exam.
Check the several questions online and try to answer each as much as you can. This will help you get insight and determine a format and style for your upcoming exam. It may not be similar, but at least, you will have a clue of what you’re expecting. This gets you well prepared, and you won’t be anxious when the exam comes.
The Bottom Line
It is best to begin preparing for your exam as early as possible. Avoid wasting time thinking that you will catch up with your studies when nearing your exams. It can be frustrating to begin reading at the last minute because you may get more distracted, anxious, and confused, and you will hardly pass your exam.
