[Anonymous]

Like many of you I discovered this blog somewhere in between freaking out waiting for test results and freaking out during last minute cramming. I want to give back by sharing my story.

About me, not an accountant guy, actually among my weakest undergrad subjects. Business degree with a concentration in finance. Later for a masters in accounting to meet education requirements to sit for the exam. Moved from CA to IN, was forced to take another class at a community college since not all my units were recognized. My profession relates more to finance, not accounting so I didn’t have the advantage many of you have.

Started studying May 2015, sat for REG July 2nd, passed 75

Immediately began studying for BEC, exam date Aug 25, passed 80

Got cocky, studied and sat for AUD November 25, fail 73

Didn’t know I failed, already began studying for FAR, got fail score in December. Decided to switch back to AUD. Used the Christmas holiday to go on lock down and study for two weeks solid, exam Jan 4, pass 78.

Took FAR With near zero studying since it was prepaid and about to expire, expected to fail but viewed it as an opportunity to see what to expect on the exam, Jan 22, fail 46.

Begin study lockdown unlike before, easily 300 hours, sat may 12th, score 24th, 88. Refreshed like 4 times becomes I couldn’t believe how high I scored. I was scoring 75-80 in practice exams and freaked when I viewed the actual exam simulations.

My take always and advice to you. Only begin the process once you’ve committed yourself to see this goal through. This means family and loved ones will have to be placed second temporarily got the greater good.

You will need to exercise, get plenty of rest and eat well. You will need 200-300 hours study review including reading the review book, taking notes and completing as many MCQ as possible 1500 + with a score trending around 80. Do not neglect simulations or subjects you find difficult (government accounting). Instead focus hard on the stuff you don’t know and learn it. You will likely fail if you take the hope and pray approach.

I used nothing but Gleim. Did not opt for the premium system because I’m cheap. Listened to audio relentlessly during my commute. Not sure if it was a factor to my success but can’t hurt.

Celebrate milestones of passing sections. Little get seats. Buy a gift to yourself, DO NOT DRINK. Protect your brain and load up on antioxidants.

Do not think you’re not smart enough to pass this. I questioned myself until I rationalized that I already passed two sections. If you attempt 3-5 sections unsuccessfully, that’s another story, stop while you’re ahead.

I plan to check this post to provide answers to any questions you have. FAR was by far my most difficult and hated subject, yet after a few hundred hours of review, I merked it with my highest score.

Best of luck guys, you got this!

[Anonymous]

Congratulations! I'm very happy with Gleim, but I couldn't stay focused on the audio for long (Thank god for Roger.).

[Anonymous]

Congratulations! I'm very happy with Gleim, but I couldn't stay focused on the audio for long (Thank god for Roger.).

[Anonymous]

Thank you.

Yes. The audio was horribly dull and difficult to grasp if you don't already have the concepts down,
especially for FAR.

Gleim is only good if you're extremely self dedicated and motivated to keep yourself on track.

[Anonymous]

Work full time and commute two hours a day. Audio is only useful if you're stuck in the car or wasting time elsewhere and can't do MCQ with that time, otherwise pass on it.

I knew nothing about FAR, my weakest subject by far. Was getting 40% on my fort practice exams.
Gave myself 3 months, this time was needed to read the entire book. This is key if you don't know the material. Take notes on anything you don't know. I averaged two pages per chapter. I would study every single day, I was very selfish with my time. FAR was my life priority outside of work. 2-2.5 hours Monday through Friday. 6 hours Saturday and 4-5 Sunday. You will likely hate your life.
Once I had my notes I took as many MCQ review quizzes in study mode as possible 20 qs at a time, instant answer and read why the answer was correct as well as why others were wrong. Did every simulation from the book 6 per chapter. Zero from the online test bank and I didn't take the final practice exam. If you put the time in and the above, leave time for a study review of difficult concepts and review of your notes. You will have a good shot at the exam.
I don't feel that you can overpower for FAR

[Author]

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