[Christine27]

I’ve been studying for the CPA test for a little over a year with CPA Excel. I’ve taken AUD three times now and gotten a 71, 73, and a 74. BEC once and got a 72. FAR 64 but I know I could have tried harder on that one. At first I used the textbook and lecture videos, then I started taking detailed notes from the book and using Becker flashcards and they seemed to help a little more. I just don’t know what to do to get out of this range! Any advice?? I need a breakthrough!

[Anonymous]

I think what really helps me is to actually speak to myself while studying the material. I bought two large whiteboards and like to do class problems and examples on them (I use RogerCPA). I think what helps to reinforce the material is to not simply remember the steps but to ask yourself WHY these steps are important and what purpose they serve. To put it another way, try getting to a point where you would feel confident enough to correctly teach the material to an imaginary friend. If you can't explain it, you don't understand it well enough.

It seems like you've taken the different exams multiple times. Why have you not tried to complete one exam before going on to others?

[Anonymous]

You didn't mention practicing MCQ's. If you're not doing that already, you really should. It's an essential step to solidifying your knowledge.

[EverybodyswaitingfortheCPA]

@AmericanNightmare and @bronxbombers2 – Agreed.

I'm sure he hit MQCs but didn't mention it. Work to understand the material rather than getting through it. If you're still struggling, consider purchasing NINJA MQCs for a section supplement and see how it goes. Understand why an answer is right and also why the other answers are wrong.

I'd focus on conquering FAR first as if you pass and get it down, you can knock out the others with similar habits. Use any extra time to study; get up an hour early, eat lunch in 15 minutes & study for 45, stay at work for an hour later and study to eliminate distractions at home, etc. All things that can help reinforce the material. Don't forget to study in moderation and reward yourself for good habits. Create a study plan and stick to it; consistency!

BEC - ✔ REG - ✔ AUD - ✔ FAR - ✔

Becker + NINJA MQCs for FAR

Licensed January 2015

[Christine27]

Yes, sorry. I do most if not all of the MCQs and practice sims that are in my software along with a few practice exams the week or two before my tests. With AUD I thought I understood most of it and honestly was expecting a passing score on that last one. I've never worked in public which makes it a little more difficult though. I've taken a few different ones because I haven't wanted to waste time not studying since I usually have 2 tests on my NTS. I think going through and seeing if I would be able to teach it will help, I hadn't thought of that one. Thanks!

[Author]

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