Earning your CPA credential through the US CPA exam feels nearly impossible when you attempt it alongside full-time employment, right? The rigorous CPA curriculum, along with demanding work schedules and personal commitments, create an overwhelming situation.
However, a well-structured approach and disciplined training can lead you to success. And here’s where you’ll need a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) course to help you with your preparation. In addition, those pursuing the CPA designation must follow these effective strategies to reach their goals.
1. Create a Solid Study Plan
Success at the CPA exam begins by developing a productive yet practical study schedule. You should plan your exam dates right after the testing period begins. Divide the preparation into four iterations before the CPA exam dates:
| First Round (30 days) | Review all instructions from the course extensively. |
| Second Round (15 days) | The next phase of the study involves both concept review and practice question work. |
| Third Round (7 days) | Focus on a fast-paced revision. |
| Final Review (1 day before the exam) | Skim through your notes and essential bullet points. |
A well-structured timeline directly leads to higher retention of concepts.
2. Eliminate Distractions
Social media presents a significant distraction which can consume the time you need to study. Reserve study hours by erasing your social media applications and silencing superfluous WhatsApp group alerts. Your CPA exam certification mandates that you set the right priorities because its effects will persist throughout your career.
3. Be Fully Committed to Your CPA Exam Classes
Your attendance at every CPA exam training program session should be a priority. Previous accounting experience cannot substitute in-class attendance because inconsistent participation lowers your concentration and comprehension. Regularly engage with instructors during your sessions by asking questions and resolving any concerning points immediately.
4. Set Short-Term Goals
When you divide your study material into smaller achievable targets, it helps you maintain focus. Creating daily and weekly goals helps you sustain consistent work habits. Your study targets need to be established from a perspective of personal abilities and time constraints.
For example, your daily targets might involve completing two chapters during the week and solving a definite number of practice questions every day. Consider using planners or digital apps to monitor your advancement while adapting your schedule to fit your learning needs.
5. Use Highlighting and Summarisation Techniques
Underline and highlight key sections of the study material for quick revision. Create independent summaries of crucial chapter information in an independent document. The notes will support your final exam preparation through brief examinations.
You can use flashcards to memorise formulas. Mnemonic devices come in handy to help/store critical concepts, while flowcharts can help you visualise complex accounting operations.
6. Time Management is Key
Make your CPA exam preparation the top priority, as you will set aside less important tasks. Plan your daily routine effectively:
- Devote specific time each day to study, then protect this time frame as inviolable.
- Studying during early mornings and late afternoons can increase productivity and retention. Try and accommodate this in your schedule accordingly.
- Employ study techniques such as the Pomodoro method, where you study for 25 minutes, followed by a short break.
- Devote equal shares of effort between your career and academic responsibilities alongside personal downtime to fight exhaustion.
7. Take Mock Tests
Mock tests will help you gauge your progress and identify weak areas. Schedule at least two mock tests per section:
- First Mock Test (15 days before the exam)
- Second Mock Test (7 days before the exam)
These tests will familiarise you with the exam pattern and improve your time management skills. The CPA exam schedule also plays a vital role in your preparation; try to study in alignment with the exam schedule so that you can perform well in the actual exam.
8. Manage Stress and Take Breaks
Burnout negatively impacts academic productivity and overall work performance. Time off between studies helps you stay focused on your work. Relaxing activities like exercising, meditation, walking, or listening to music are great ways to de-stress. Deep breathing techniques, along with mindfulness, reduce exam stress. Your information retention capability and motivation levels directly depend on sustaining positive thinking.
9. Prioritise Health and Well-Being
You will learn more effectively when your body and mind operate at peak performance. Here are some simple habits to prioritise your health and well being ahead of exam stress:
- Getting 6–7 hours of daily sleep helps your brain function optimally and maintain better memory retention.
- Eating dietary proteins, healthy fats, and vitamins will help you maintain your energy supply while learning.
- Drinking enough fluid and limiting caffeine intake will help you maintain clear mental concentration.
- Light exercises like walking or yoga help relieve stress and improve your concentration.
Final Thoughts
While preparing for the CPA exam alongside a full-time job can be challenging, you can navigate the challenges with the right approach. A well-structured study plan, dedication, and time management will set you up for success. Stick to these tips, stay focused, and you’ll soon earn your CPA designation and advance your career!
Joining a CPA course can also make a huge difference. The US CPA Certification course by Imarticus is a one-stop resource to help you study more efficiently, especially if you are juggling work and exam prep.
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I eligible to take the CPA exam if I don’t have an accounting degree?
Yes, you are. However, the CPA exam eligibility varies from state to state. Most states require specific accounting and business coursework. Additional courses help you meet eligibility requirements if you have a non-accounting degree.
What is the recommended period for studying for the CPA exam when working full-time?
The least disruptive times to study are early morning and after regular work hours. You should invest long hours into your studies over weekend days.
When preparing for my CPA exam, should I tackle all four sections consecutively or separate them into equivalent tests?
The timing of your studies depends on your available hours for study and how quickly you learn. Most professionals going through this experience pick one section at a time to effectively manage work alongside their studies.
What strategies keep me focused during my CPA exam preparation journey?
Your CPA success requires both goal setting and achievement rewards. Group participation in CPA studies and constant focus on your professional ambitions are equally important.
