In the overall CPA examination pattern, simulations are perhaps the toughest and most rigorous part. Just like the multiple-choice questions (MCQs), task-based simulations are meant for your knowledge and skill assessment in a particular area, but the problem is- you never have any clue about what they are going to test you on.
However, some CPA tutoring services like Andrew Katz provides the best study materials to help you prepare for the simulations. To make it easier for you, here are a few essential tips you can follow.
- Strategize Your Time
To begin with your CPA preparations, first, make a strategy to utilize your time. Each section of the CPA exam comprises three testlets of multiple choices and one testlet of simulation. If we talk about the section-wise weightage these simulations carry, it is 40% of FAR, AUD, and REG and 15% of BEC (the only written communication task-based testlet).
So the minimum amounts of time typically recommended for each exam are:
For four-hours exams with seven simulations:
FAR – 1 hour and 30 minutes
AUD – 1 hour and 30 minutes
For three-hour exams:
REG (6 simulations) – 1 hour and 15 minutes
BEC (3 written memos) – 30 minutes
- Start With What You Know
In order to maximize your score, pick the first simulation question you are more comfortable with and about which you are confident. By first choosing what you know well, you can avoid wasting time on a simulation topic you are not much familiar with. Remember, time is very precious in the CPA examination, so when you are stuck, leave it there and move on.
By doing the easiest question first, you can use your energy and effort on the harder questions. However, you also need to be comfortable with difficult questions, which is possible with a top review course like A K CPA tutoring; they will help drive your preparation in a better direction.
- BEC Memos
For CPA’s BEC section- Business Environment and Concepts, you have to write three business memos or letters in professional formatting. While many candidates get anxious upon reaching this section, mostly due to lack of time. To overcome this fear, you should follow the first point, strategize your time.
Most importantly, the written part is graded based on your writing skills- correct grammar, sentence structure, and formatting and not just content. So don’t just spew what all you know about the topic. That would hardly get you any points. Make your memo accurately formatted with an introduction having relevant notions, a body comprising supportive points and then a conclusion. Do not walk away from the topic.
Conclusion
Keeping up with these tips will help you beat the most difficult part of your CPA exam journey. Meanwhile, keep practising the simulations under the guidance of a CPA tutor. You can join Andrew Katz Tutoring, which provides CPA study materials and plans based on your needs. Andrew Katz is a CPA with a record of passing the exam on his first attempt with an average of 90.
He employs a comprehensive process that involves one-on-one support with dedicated weekly check-ins for scheduled sessions. Also, the sessions are dedicated to the approaching simulations, MCQs and topics, to help students master the material for the CPA exam.