Table of Contents
- Myths About Chartered Accountants Examination Preparation
- Part I :
- Keeping Impossible Targets
- Started Classes Right After Articleship Began, Many Thought It Was Premature.
- Always Have Wiggle Room
- Revision Before Study Leave Is A Myth
- Just Finish All Your Classes
- Part Ii: In Study Leave Ca Preparation:
- The Big Question: How Long Should Study Leave Be?
- Pick The Hardest Subject First
- How Many Subjects In A Day?
- Keep Impossible Targets
- Not Taking It Lightly
- Never Consider 1.5 Days, Just 1 Day
- Preparation Tips: Chartered Accountants Examination Preparation
Myths about Chartered Accountants Examination Preparation
Part I :
Keeping Impossible Targets
A common mistake is assuming you can watch 7-10 classes per week, which is unrealistic due to other commitments like extra work, office celebrations, or family dinners. Setting a more realistic target, like 5 classes per week, helps manage time better and reduces stress. For example, I completed an 80-lecture costing class in 5 months by setting achievable targets.
Started classes right after articleship began, many thought it was premature.
Although the 2.5 years have been blurry, starting early was crucial for better preparation. Rushing through subjects with fast-track classes can lead to incomplete understanding and unnecessary stress. It's better to pace yourself and allow enough time for each subject.
Always Have Wiggle Room
Don’t beat yourself up if you miss a few classes. Taking breaks to celebrate with friends or rest is essential. For instance, during my face-to-face FR class, which ran from Monday to Saturday with additional evening sessions, I skipped Saturday classes to rest. It’s important to re-energize and cover missed classes later.
Revision Before Study Leave is a Myth
It's unrealistic to expect revision alongside regular classes and office work. After 9-10 hours of work and 3-4 hours of classes, you neither have the time nor energy for revision. Focus on completing your classes first and plan your revision during study leave. This approach reduces guilt and stress, ensuring you are well-prepared when study leave starts.
Just Finish All Your Classes
Ensure all your classes are completed before your study leave. Do not waste study leave time on watching lectures, as it should be dedicated to revision. This strategy allows you to focus entirely on revising and solidifying your knowledge during the study leave.
Part II: In Study Leave CA Preparation:
The Big Question: How Long Should Study Leave Be?
You had close to 6 months of study leave due to exam extensions, but it is not recommend this to anyone. An optimal study leave of 4-5 months is sufficient, depending on your learning and grasping abilities. A longer study leave can lead to a loss of interest. Give exams while the subject matter is still engaging and fresh in your mind.
Pick the Hardest Subject First
Starting with the hardest subject can boost your confidence significantly. Overcoming the initial challenge makes the remaining subjects feel more manageable, providing a psychological boost throughout your study leave.
How Many Subjects in a Day?
Initially, many student had tried to complete one subject before starting another, but it was ineffective for long study hours. Instead, You switched to studying 4 subjects a day, which kept your interest and prevented boredom. This method allowed you to study effectively for longer periods.
Keep Impossible Targets
Setting achievable targets often leads to complacency, resulting in only 70-80% completion. By setting impossible targets, you push yourself harder. Even if you don't achieve them, you end up completing more than you would have with conservative goals.
Not Taking It Lightly
The CA finals are unlike any other exams. They demand your full attention and dedication. Treating them with the seriousness they deserve is crucial for success.
Never Consider 1.5 Days, Just 1 Day
Planning your revision with the assumption of having 1.5 days before the exam is unrealistic. No one can study effectively on the exam day. Focus on completing your preparation within one day and use the exam day to relax and refresh your mind.
Preparation Tips: Chartered Accountants Examination Preparation
By following these strategies, you can effectively manage your CA Final preparation, ensuring a balanced approach that accommodates both study and relaxation.
Sleep:
- Ensure you get 6-7 hours of sleep regularly.
- Do not compromise on sleep; it's crucial for effective learning and retention.
Social Media:
- Avoid platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Snapchat as they can distract you and make your journey more difficult.
- Use social media only for study-related purposes, such as contacting friends to clarify doubts.
- Breaks and Relaxation:
- Engage in activities you love, such as listening to music, playing instruments, reading, walking, or meeting friends.
- Take 30-40 minutes for relaxing activities to calm yourself and maintain mental well-being.
- Studying Hours :
- Focus on the quality of your study sessions rather than the quantity of hours.
- Begin with studying 8-10 hours daily and gradually increase it to 14-15 hours as the exam approaches.
- Aim for consistency in your study schedule.
- Study Materials :
- Utilize class notes and the ICAI Study Material (ICAI SM) extensively.
- The ICAI SM is essential and comprehensive for all subjects.
- Study Pattern :
- Consider studying during night hours, such as 1 am to 5 am, as it can be highly productive and peaceful.
- Night study can provide a calm environment that enhances focus and concentration.Starting Classes Too Late and Then Rushing All the Subjects by Taking Fast-Track Classes
