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Jul-8-2010

The Best CPA Exam Tips

A prerequisite to becoming a Certified Public Accountant is passing the CPA Exam. Each state has different rules for the exam and applicants should review their state’s Board of Accountancy website for any particular rules regarding the test for that jurisdiction.

While some people may be able to pass the CPA exam without taking a review course, it is rare. Most candidates choose a CPA review course and study it extensively before taking the exams.

There are four parts to the CPA exam: Auditing, Regulation, Business Environment and Concepts and Financial Accounting and Reporting. These consist of a combination of multiple choice questions and practical testing simulations. Each exam will take between three hours to more than four hours.

The first two months of each quarter are available for taking the exam. Every third month is used to evaluate the exam and for scoring. Of course, you will need a score of 75% to pass the exam. Before you assume that that is an easy accomplishment, know that about half of all people fail each section during each testing window.

Each time you sit for the exam, it will cost between $100 and $300, depending on your state. With the low pass rate and the high costs, you should dedicate a significant amount of time and energy to studying. Use these tips to study effectively and efficiently.

Don’t study for too long at a time. Take two or three breaks per hour. A lot of the CPA Exam Reviews are online or use a computer. So, for your break, do not check email, log on to Facebook, or play a computer game. Give your eyes and back a rest and go outside for a quick walk. It is very important not to stare at a computer screen too long as it will hurt your eyes.

Do not skimp on your sleep. In fact, getting a good seven or eight hours of sleep each night will keep you alert and studying well. You will not do yourself any favors by studying late into the night and getting up early to do it again.

Make short term goals to keep you on track. Spend a few minutes and create your task list for the next day. Don’t ignore your responsibilities to your friends and family. Your spouse and children are certainly making sacrifices to allow you to study, so make sure that you include time for them during the day. Scheduling small, daily goals will help you achieve that long term goal of earning the CPA!

These CPA exam tips will keep you on track to quickly earn your Certified Public Accounting license!

Find more CPA Exam Tips. There are many sites that include CPA Exam Sample Questions to help you pass today!

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