Tips for passing the CPA Exam

If you are planning to take the CPA Exam, it's never too early to start preparing. Below are some tips from John S. Pelicano Jr., of Yaeger Lambers CPA Review. He has also provided an update on the AICPA computerized exam that is still in the works

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(NOTE: Mr. Pelicano's views are his own, not to be considered those of MACPA.)

Tips for passing the CPA Exam
Words of Advice from Yaeger Lambers CPA Review, a leading review course provider for more than 25 years.

First, before you decide to sit for the CPA Exam ...

1. Make sure you will be able to dedicate a significant amount of time to your CPA Exam preparation. It has been determined that successful candidates spend between 300 and 500 hours preparing to take the CPA exam.
   
   
2. Try to ascertain beforehand that you will have the personal support (from family and friends) and professional support (from people at work) to realistically allow you the time necessary to prepare for the exam.
   

1. Try to find a live CPA review course rather than doing self-study. Most people who pass the CPA Exam have attended live review courses.
   
   
2. Plan to dedicate a significant number of hours to preparing for the exam. Include class time (if you choose to take a review course) plus at-home study time.
   
   
3. Make sure you use the most current and up-to-date materials from which to study.
   
   
4. Work multiple choice, other objective-format questions, large problems and read the essay answers over and over and over.
   
   
5. Strive to understand concepts. Don't just memorize questions and answers. The exam will often ask the same concept but in a totally different way, so it is very important that you understand the accounting concept. Without the understanding of concepts, you will find it difficult to pass the exam.