Megan is a new Another71 Facebook blogger as she documents her journey through the CPA Exam.
Im officially in the home stretch of Roger CPA Reviews AUD course. Ive covered all the material and completed the CRAM course. Currently, Im practicing exam questions and simulations on my computer. That being said, I should probably explain what my study strategies entail. My study habits follow Rogers suggestions very closely.
First, Ill tell you how I plan – one of the most important steps in this process! If I didnt take time to plan, I would never be able to mentally overcome the overwhelming and intimidating mountains of material that must be covered. This is what I find works best for me:
1) Set up a study schedule.
Just as it sounds, grab a calendar and lay out your study days and your days off. This was quite simple for me, because the review course comes with suggested study planners that break down the entire course over 3, 6, or 9 months. I chose the 9 month planner and adapted the lessons to fit with my work hours and previous engagements.
2) Schedule the exam.
This is one of the most motivating steps. The big red circle on November 5 reminds me that I have a finite number of days until I walk into that exam with enough knowledge and confidence to earn a 75!
3) Stick to the plan!
Too often people ask about my plans, and I tell them Im hanging out with Roger! When Im too tired to study after work, I make sure to catch up within a few days. Family and friends know my time is limited on weekends, but I do my best to keep up appearances.
The important thing to remember about sticking to your plan is that you WILL make sacrifices, temporary sacrifices. A friend of mine likes to remind me, Nothing worth having is easily attained.
Once Ive set my plan, my studying goes something like this
1) Watch the video lesson
2) Read the notes for greater understanding and repetition
3) Answer each multiple choice question in the homework and flip to the answer/explanation immediately (always read the entire explanation, as you learn more this way)
4) Practice simulations in the text. Once Ive completed all of the course lessons and assigned homework, its time for more practice!
5) Use the software to practice more MC questions and simulations. For an extra boost of knowledge, it helps to do the following step as close to the exam as you can
6) Complete the CRAM course reviewing all suggested questions and simulations
7) (Finally!) Review any areas where confidence is low, using the homework book as a reference or asking questions online using the student message board.
I am quite confident in the effectiveness of these strategies and habits, because Roger CPA Review has a powerful backing of CPAs who swear by them. Most importantly, this is how I tackled FAR last quarter!
It can be difficult to balance an intense study schedule with work and other obligations, but setting and sticking to a plan will help you see how to turn your CPA dreams into a reality! Study hard! We can do this!
