Your Study Zone

Each CPA candidate has different circumstances, living arrangements, and requirements for focus. I found the workstation I used at home during undergrad study to be inadequate for graduate classes and CPA exam prep, perhaps due the volume of material to memorize, time constraints, or because it was in the middle of many distractions. I set out to study at the library, but found it too distracting (not everyone obeys the "quiet" signs). Coffee shops are also too busy for me to get much studying done.

I have no office space at home, so I had to be creative. After a few failed locations, I settled into a corner of the basement (see photo). The table faces the wall, with a window to the right for sunlight. With my back to the room, I was not distracted by others when wearing earplugs or listening to lectures.

When preparing your study zone, aim to:

When is the best time to study for the CPA exam?

This depends on your schedule and preference. Your goal is to study frequently, EVERY day. Use a single block of hours, many 15 minute power bursts, a marathon-study weekend, or any combination of these approaches. Start the day studying to take advantage of a brain that is fresh, alert and ready to learn or study in the evening to promote subconscious review during sleep. Study during your public commute might make it go by more quickly.

My favorite time to study was during and following a brisk walk, to take advantage of the increased blood flow to the brain. I set aside blocks of time each day to watch lectures, work MCQ and practice simulations at my computer. However, I was often seen flipping through my flashcards while in line at the grocery, in a doctor’s waiting room, and while a passenger in a car – each minute counts!

After intense study periods, take short “mindless” breaks, doing yard work, housecleaning, playing with your dog, resting, etc. These breaks allow your brain to absorb & solidify the most recent material and “make it stick” before adding new material. It is very helpful to set a schedule with goals for daily study time and record progress at day’s end. Be honest with yourself – does that hour of “study” during Survivor count? Each new day brings new opportunities and choices to help you pass the CPA exam.

What will your next CPA exam be like?

You decide! First think about it. Think about the specifics, the details. Now close your eyes and picture what it looks like. See it as if a photo on your desktop (see my example). Your brain is sharp, clear and efficient. You feel assured as you read and answer each MCQ. You are right on schedule. You remember details and click radio buttons with confidence. You respond to written portions with professionalism, clarity and proper grammar. You rock each exam and know it. This is not only how your CPA exams end, this is how they begin.