[Rukus]

So, I know what most people here will likely say, but I wanted to ask anyway.

Here is the situation. I have passed the 1st 3 sections of the exam on the first attempt, and have been studying straight through since May. There are about 8 weeks until my busy season is in full swing and I will not have any time to study during 65 hr work weeks. So, I am trying to decide if I should take a break and enjoy the Holidays and my daughter’s 1 yr birthday (been studying for most of her life) and start on REG after 4-15-13? Or, should I try to fit REG in before tax season while studying during the holidays/bday? Pros or cons?

I am definitely tired of studying, but it would also be nice to be done. I have 4 yrs of tax experience and if I put in the work like I have to this point am confident I have a good chance to pass. My wife thinks I should take a break and enjoy my hard work to this point since I have exceeded my original goal of being 50% done before tax season.

What are you guys’ opinions?

FAR - 81 (8/31/12)
AUD - 93 (10/19/12)
BEC - 79 (11/27/12)
REG - 92 (2/8/13) DONE! All 1st attempt!

[Zaq]

First time I think I'd ever say this… YOLO!

Go be with your family, man. I'm sure they've missed you and you miss them. You've got a strong start by passing all three exams on the first try. You deserve the vacation and once you're done you should be fully revitalized and prepared to tackle REG at full force.

FAR: 50, 76!
REG: 74... (ouch baby, very ouch), 76!
AUD: 65, 91!?
BEC: 80! Aaaand doneskies!

May 2012 to August 2013. Can't believe it's over.

[mla1169]

I think you're making this too black & white, I think its entirely possible to spend some time with your family and some time studying. And I'm not being glib, but you absolutely can find time to study working 60+ hours a week, if studying is your priority. It may mean finding other shortcuts like more takeout, or hiring a sitter for a few extra hours, but its not like you have to choose one or the other.

Its not forever, its for one more exam. You're very close.

FAR- 77
AUD -49, 71, 84
REG -56,75!
BEC -75

Massachusetts CPA (non reporting) since 3/12.

[g_freeman]

I'd say that as sweet as it would be to finish, if your wife is asking you to take a break, you should heed her opinion. Your kid is only young once, and you should focus on your accomplishments. Sounds like you got this well in hand. Put in some prep where you can fit it, but don't kill yourself before the holidays.

FAR - 94
AUD - 99
REG - 88
BEC - TBD

[UCFCPA]

I agree with those who say to go spend time with your family. If you only started taking the exams in May, you still have a long time before you lose any credits. I would spend the holidays with family, have fun, then get back to it.

I am getting married in a week, and I know I will not be touching my FAR retake material until next year. I plan to take it in May after busy season as well.

I think you will be fine taking time off before your last test. It's also important to enjoy the special events in your life- like your daughter's 1st birthday. Enjoy! And good luck.

REG (8/7/12) 77
FAR (10/4/12) 70 Retake 5/25/13 84!!!!!!!!!
AUD (11/2/12) 78
BEC (11/30/12) 82

[Author]

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