Realization: The Hardest Part of the CPA Exam

[Gina]

It has come to my realization that the hardest part of the CPA exam may not be the exam itself.  Yes the exam itself is tough, but with the proper tools and studying you can prepare and pass. 

The hardest part of the exam is probably preparing to take the exam. 

Let me explain....

First you research endlessly to select the perfect CPA review materials.

While waiting for the materials to arrive,  you spend more hours Goggling the best way to study for the exam and better utilize the review materials.  

Once you find a technique that you're comfortable with, you spend an average of 400 hours studying and preparing for it.  

The difficult and hardest part is not knowing.

You wont know if the study technique you used prepared you enough until you are actually taking the exam.  Then you question if the materials you selected were the right fit and the cycle starts all over again.

I am only on Day 3 of my CPA study adventure and I am about to adjust my study technique AGAIN. I don't feel like I'm retaining or learning the information, so I have to switch things up a bit.

I've received some great advice and I know what type of student I am so I believe the  study method I just wrote out (which is being adapted tonight) will work for me.....

Gina's Posts

1. It Begins: My CPA Exam Journey
2. Realization: The Hardest Part of the CPA Exam
3. Life Happens: How to Plan?
4. Now or Later: To Rewrite or Not to Rewrite
5. Scared of Lazy?: Need to Get it Together
6. Figure it Out: The Best CPA Review Material For You

[Michael]

I couldn't agree with this any more.  Well put!  I have sat 3 times already and have yet to make it more than 1/2 of the way through my study mats :(    I am hoping this time is a diff story, as I'm much more motivated and feeling humiliated for not passing any yet

[Melissa Anderson]

I'm taking the BEC ( my first time to take any of the parts) this month. I know the exam will be tough but it has been so hard for me to prepare to study. This is by far the biggest challenge I have ever faced in my life. First, figuring out what material to use then figuring out a study plan that works for me. Some many times, I have thought, "why am I doing this? I'll never pass these test." I have to tell that voice to shut up and say, Melissa, you can do anything you want to do." I have do much enjoyed these articles. Thank you.