Examine it

One of the tips to help pass exams is choosing the 'right' study strategy. It is the result of devising a plan which takes into account all the challenges you are facing, ensuring that you are focused towards success. It is a two-step approach which consists of study and revision plans.

Study plan

Do make sure that you are having a coherent coverage of the syllabus and the examinable documents published in your student accountant magazine prior to your sittings. Rework your initial study plan if you feel that you will not be meeting the requirements of your studies in time (usually three to four weeks before your exams), by devising new strategies; perhaps by making room for extra study sessions, or organising group workshops with other fellow students facing similar standpoints.

Revision plan

It is worthwhile to point out that revision should be an ongoing exercise, especially after coverage of any new material. The final revision phase aims to ensure that you can apply your knowledge and further develops the essential skills expected from your examiner. Hence the revision plan should ensure that:

• Your personal notes are in a summarised format and the mind maps of each topic are kept handy to act as a useful memory aid.
• You are practicing different types of questions that you may encounter in your examinations.
• You are doing so in examination conditions with special consideration to the 'time factor' (this being the major challenge faced by many candidates).
• Read professional publications which discuss current examinable issues affecting the business world. Re-read all the technical articles published in student accountant magazine (they can be easily downloaded on the ACCA website).
• You learn from your mistakes and also those of others! Examine the markings of your assignments and discuss with your tutor the methods you should adopt to tackle your weak points. Also, read all the previous examiners' comments; they are marvellous sources of information which shed light on what is expected from candidates and the common causes of failure.
• Stress out and focus in: the final revision phase is one the most challenging phases in every student's life. Remember that your sessions will be effective as long as you keep your concentration and energy at optimum levels and that stress is kept to a minimal. Adopting a positive mindset and regular physical exercise can contribute in achieving this balance.

But also…

There is no generic plan, simply because we are studying within different parameters.

Your personalised plan will remain effective as long as it is tracking your progress, and its objectives are ambitious enough to ensure that you are working hard. And remember the harder you work, the nearer will be one the most memorable day of your life: your graduation!