[regulatoor]

I need some feedback in combining the Becker Roadmap / Materials with the NINJA Framework.

They both seem to somewhat contradict each other. Correct me if I am wrong, but the NINJA Framework has the student watch all the video lectures, which is over 100 hours, while taking intense notes before even attempting the homework, MCQs, and simulations. On the other hand, the Becker has the student watch the lectures, complete the homework, MCQs, simulations, and review sessions for each section.

I am a bit uncomfortable with watching over 100 hours of lecture videos before attempting any problems. I just graduated from college and I am more comfortable with the Becker Roadmap, however I am convinced with Jeff’s logic about this old-school style of studying, so I am opting for the NINJA Framework.

Under the NINJA Framework, when I finally attempt the homework and MCQs should I refrain from looking at my notes? Should I review ALL my notes before attempting the problems? I need some clarification in this area.

Also, how should I incorporate the Becker text book into the NINJA Framework?

Can anyone kindly post their experience, advice, feedback with the NINJA Framework in combination with the Becker Self-Study Roadmap?

Thank you,

Phil

[tessablkwd]

I'm using Becker and following the NINJA method, and I have to say I haven't taken, let alone passed an exam yet, but I'm feeling pretty confident for my exam next weekend! Anyways, here's what I did.

-Watched ALL lectures, while taking lots of notes. Any time Tim said to highlight something, I wrote it down. (I have 5 legal pads…but don't let that scare you, I write big)

-Then I did ALL the MCQs, without reviewing my notes…I don't know if this was the right choice or not, but I just gave it my best shot. If I missed an MCQ, I wrote a little ditty about it in another notebook.

-I then read the Becker text and made flashcards of info I though was important or remembered them mentioning in the lectures.

-Then I went back to my MCQs, reworked the ones I got wrong (by chapter)

-Worked all the SIMS

-Went over my notes, highlighting things that stood out

-I was re-writing my NINJA notes throughout the process and listening to NINJA audio every day.

-I'm now reviewing everything by re-reading my lecture notes, brushing up on specifics from the book, looking at my flashcards whenever I get a chance, and doing lots of progress tests in Becker

Also, I think you may be confused on the amount of lecture time. I think there should only be about 24-25 hours per section, so you wouldn't want to watch all the section videos before starting, just the section you're studying.

Like I mentioned, I have no idea if this method will work, but I sure hope so!

AUD: 71, 87
BEC: 85
FAR: 80
REG: 12/6/13

[neika822]

I did the Becker method for my first two exams (and passed). However, FAR is a biotch, and I was losing steam attempting the Becker method, so I switched to the NINJA method.

You have to do what YOU think will work best for you. How did you study in college? I'd recommend taking notes like @tessa said. I take notes on all the handwritten/highlighted stuff for the chapter. Reread them every few chapters so you're fresh. If you feel the need to read the notes before you attempt the MCQs, go for it.

Don't feel discouraged if you're getting low scores once you get to the MCQ's. That's the whole point. You're learning from your mistakes and you're understanding how it actually works. Take notes on “fact nuggets” from the MCQs. Why did you get it wrong? Why did you get it right? Take the time to understand it. Keep doing progress tests so you don't lose the material as you go.

NINJA method has rewriting the notes, which I never did, but I can understand the benefits. Good luck!!!

R - *77*(02/'13)-Becker & NINJA
A - 71('11); *87*(04/'13)-Becker & NINJA
F - *76*(08/'13)-Becker & NINJA - "server upgrade" survivor
B - 60('11); *82*(10/'13) -Becker & NINA

DONE, DONE, AND DONE.

CPA in Massachusetts; issued 01/24/14

[Author]

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