By Jack Castonguay, CPA, PhD

Preparing for the CPA Exam can be challenging, yet it will ultimately be rewarding for college students, graduates, and professionals aiming to earn their CPA credential. Whether you are balancing study time with completing college coursework, raising a family, or managing a full-time job, a strategic approach to your exam preparation is essential for success. Creating a structured study plan and utilizing effective tools can enhance your readiness and confidence in achieving your career aspirations.

Here are six study tips to help you prepare for the CPA Exam.

Create a Realistic Study Schedule – Creating a realistic study schedule is one of the most important steps in preparing for the CPA Exam. Without a structured plan, it is easy to lose focus or feel overwhelmed by the volume of material. Start by assessing your current commitments, then carve out dedicated study blocks in your daily or weekly schedule. Aim for consistent, manageable study sessions rather than cramming. Treat your study sessions like they are a college class that meets regularly. Use tools like digital calendars or planners to block out specific times for studying and try to stick to the schedule. Remember, preparation is about quality, not just quantity, so ensure your study periods are productive and focused.

Set Clear Goals and Milestones – Setting goals and milestones is crucial to maintaining motivation and staying on track with your CPA Exam preparation. Define what you want to achieve by specific dates, such as completing certain sections of your review material or mastering particular topics. Break down your study plan into weekly or biweekly goals. Celebrating small victories can keep you motivated and provide a sense of accomplishment.

Find Your Ideal Study Environment – Choosing the right study environment can significantly impact your concentration and productivity. Whether it’s a quiet corner of your home, a local library, or a coffee shop, find a place to focus without distractions. Ensure it is a comfortable and conducive space for extended study periods. A well-organized and distraction-free environment helps maintain focus, reduces stress, and allows for more effective study sessions.

Utilize Effective Study Techniques – Study techniques vary, so you’ll want to identify effective methods that enhance retention and understanding of the CPA Exam material. Active learning methods – such as practice questions, flash cards, and summarizing information in your own words – can help reinforce key concepts. Regularly reviewing what you’ve learned also aids in retention and helps identify areas that need more attention. Incorporating different techniques can keep your study sessions dynamic and engaging, reducing monotony and enhancing comprehension.

Leverage Study Groups and Peer Support – Joining a study group or finding a study buddy can also provide additional motivation and accountability during your CPA Exam preparation. Discussing challenging concepts, quizzing each other, and sharing study strategies can enhance understanding and make studying more enjoyable. Collaborating with peers allows you to gain different perspectives on complex topics and can also provide moral support.

Schedule Downtime to Recharge – While staying committed to your study plan is crucial, it is equally important to schedule downtime to relax and recharge. We recommend having one day a week where you disconnect from accounting and give your mind a break.

Engaging in physical activities, spending time with friends and family, or simply taking a walk can help clear your mind and improve your overall productivity when you return to your studies. Balancing focused study time with regular breaks prevents burnout and maintains a healthy mental state, which is vital for effective learning and retention.

Finding an Exam Prep Partner

Choosing the right exam prep partner can make all the difference in your CPA Exam success. My company, Surgent CPA Review, is one of several partners available to help you prepare for the CPA Exam. With Surgent, you gain access to high-quality study materials and tools that can be accessed anytime, anywhere. Here are some ways Surgent can help you achieve your credentialing goals.

Personalized Learning with Predictive AI Technology – Surgent CPA Review provides Predictive AI Technology that personalizes your study path, ensuring a faster and more streamlined experience. Surgent’s technology identifies your strengths and weaknesses, focusing your efforts on the areas needing the most improvement. This means you spend less time studying what you already know and more time strengthening your weaker areas to maximize the efficiency of every study session.

ReadySCORE – ReadySCORE™ is Surgent's proprietary tool that predicts your exam readiness with 98% accuracy, letting you know exactly when you are ready to take the CPA Exam. ReadySCORE helps eliminate the guesswork and build confidence. You can track your progress in real time, ensuring that you are focusing on the areas that need the most attention. ReadySCORE reduces study time and enhances your overall exam prep to give you the peace of mind to walk into the exam room with confidence.

Comprehensive Exam Prep Solutions – Whether you are pursuing the CPA credential to excel in public accounting or advance in your current role, Surgent CPA Review is personalized to meet your needs. Surgent’s technology and coaching ensure that you are prepared to pass the exam and equipped with the skills and knowledge needed for success in your career.

Whether you are a college student or professional, by following these study tips and leveraging the right resources you can set yourself up for success on the CPA Exam. With dedication, the right strategies, and support from Surgent, passing the CPA Exam and advancing your career goals is within reach. Start your free trial today with Surgent CPA Review.

Jack Castonguay, CPA, PhD, serves as vice president of learning and development for Surgent in Radnor, Pa. He can be reached at castonguayj@surgent.com.

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^{Statements of fact and opinion are the authors’ responsibility alone and do not imply an opinion on the part of the PICPA's officers or members. The information contained herein does not constitute accounting, legal, or professional advice. For actionable advice, you must engage or consult with a qualified professional.}