[illinoisguy]

I am hoping to get some advice as my situation differs quite a bit from others. I am 40 years old and have recently decided to take the CPA. However, I’ve been out of school for over 5 years (graduate degree in accounting) and I feel like my accounting education was rather poor. I have been doing accounting for a private company (mainly project accounting for 10 years) so I do have quite a bit of career experience. What would be the best way for me to prepare for the CPA? Just a couple of other notes…..I have two kids so I have to be able to balance family and the test…….I have always been a good test taker…….I have the ability to study some at work (especially via audio). Thanks in advance!

[Spartans92]

@pmsmith2032, I am full time studying right now along with taking classes (still finishing up the 150) so I spend about 5-6 hours per day around 35 per week. But that varies, sometimes just really tired so I would take a break in between. Cant answer for Ninja, have not made any purchases yet. Good Luck! I would suggest tackle FAR first because a lot of stuff is being covered!

BEC- PASS

[illinoisguy]

Sounds like the NINJA MCQs along with the Wiley books might be my best bet. Would be around a $110 a section.

[SpiritofGod]

I don't understand why cpa candidates still spend money on flash cards. I have this app for free. It's called “cram”. It's the best flash cards app out there and it costs $0!

[Spartans92]

Pmsmith2032, also take advantage of cpareviewforfree.com I believe is the site! It is FREE!

BEC- PASS

[Kel Kel Kel]

@pmsmith2032

I took the CPA exam after many years after graduating. I have been working in public accounting for the past 10 years, thus I thought I had a good familiarity with the topics of FAR, AUD and REG. I ended up spending about 3 months studying all tests (except AUD- 2 months). Other people have stated needing only 2 months, but I needed the time to learn, memorize and reinforce all the various topics. I put in about 20-30 hours a week studying.

F- 84
A- 81
R- 86
B- 74, 71, 83
Licensed in CA

[illinoisguy]

Thanks. Can someone explain what the Ninja MCQ is exactly. I know it includes questions and simulations but I also see reference to “Authoritative Literature” and “Online Access”.

[A]

It's pretty self-descriptive. For example, the NINJA MCQ for Audit includes >1,600 multiple-choice questions and 86 SIMS. As you work the MCQs, you can choose a practice exam format (3 MCQ testlets plus 7 SIMS) or just work the MCQs alone, with the ability to see the corect answer and explanation afte recording your answer.

The NINJA MCQ and SIMS both include authoritative lit-based questions. I also recommend signing up for the 6-month free access through AICPA so you can effectively practice searching and using the AL.

You will need online access to use the MCQs and SIMS; the software is web-based (not stand-alone).

B - 77 (2.27.16)
A - 81 (4.18.16)
R -
F -

Roger Review + Ninja MCQs

[Anonymous]

@pmsmith2032 – As some others seem to agree with, I find flashcards to be a waste. When I purchased CPAexcel, it came with a box of flashcards for each section. I opened the AUD box, but never even took the plastic wrap off the other three sections. If I was to do it all over again, I definitely wouldn't buy flashcards.

[Anonymous]

If price is a main issue which it is for most anyone paying for it themselves, I don't think you can go wrong with Ninja. I have used only the 10-point combo and have done way better than I ever thought I would.

[Skynet]

Some of us forum members here put on the Ninja Costume to get Psyched out before we start studying.

Jeff Elliot recommends it. I Swear! : )

[golfball7773]

Apparently Skynet recommends “stripper” as a part time job to get extra income. I swear I read it earlier today.

FAR: 63, 55, 62
REG: 65, 77*
AUD: Fail, 64, 71
BEC: 72, 74, 81

*expired

[illinoisguy]

Thanks all! I would definitely buy the Ninja Ten Point Combos if it wasn't as expensive. I'm pretty sure I'm going to go with the Wiley 2016 CPA Exam Review books and the Ninja MCQs ($155 vs $397).

[Skynet]

What can I say golfball7773. Chicks dig the Clark Kent glasses and Pocket Protector ; )

[golfball7773]

Maybe I saw it in a side job topic on some other forum where you participate….

FAR: 63, 55, 62
REG: 65, 77*
AUD: Fail, 64, 71
BEC: 72, 74, 81

*expired

[Skynet]

I Totally agree with that Proxy statement golfball7773. ; )

[Author]

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