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What is a good way to study for the CPA Exam?
What source material would be best for someone that learns better by doing instead of reading?
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21 answers
Updated
Bill’s Answer
Hi Erick,
Here are some tips I believe will really help you get ready for the CPA exam. I hope you find them useful:
- Practice many multiple-choice questions and task-based simulations.
- Check every wrong answer right away to understand it better.
- Spend more time on areas where you need improvement instead of what you already know well.
- Go over the questions you missed from time to time to strengthen those weaker areas.
Here are some tips I believe will really help you get ready for the CPA exam. I hope you find them useful:
- Practice many multiple-choice questions and task-based simulations.
- Check every wrong answer right away to understand it better.
- Spend more time on areas where you need improvement instead of what you already know well.
- Go over the questions you missed from time to time to strengthen those weaker areas.
Updated
Stephanie’s Answer
Hello! It's been a while since I took the CPA exam, but I've picked up some great tips. If possible, try to pass the exam before starting your job. Balancing work and study can be challenging. If you need to take the exam while working, create a detailed study and exam plan. Share this plan with your managers to show your commitment, and they can support you. You can do it!
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Mayur’s Answer
Hi Erick,
I’ve only used Becker to study for the CPA exams, and I highly recommend their materials. My biggest piece of advice is to complete all the multiple choice questions and simulations, and review the explanations for questions you answered both correctly and incorrectly. This really helped me strengthen both the concepts I already knew and the areas where I needed more help. I would also avoid spending too much time on any one area that gives you trouble; instead, move on and come back to it later. I used the Becker calendar for two of my exams to help keep me accountable, and I found that it did a great job of spacing out my studying. Hope this helps, and good luck!
I’ve only used Becker to study for the CPA exams, and I highly recommend their materials. My biggest piece of advice is to complete all the multiple choice questions and simulations, and review the explanations for questions you answered both correctly and incorrectly. This really helped me strengthen both the concepts I already knew and the areas where I needed more help. I would also avoid spending too much time on any one area that gives you trouble; instead, move on and come back to it later. I used the Becker calendar for two of my exams to help keep me accountable, and I found that it did a great job of spacing out my studying. Hope this helps, and good luck!
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Kate’s Answer
Create a plan and stick to it. I think the hardest part about studying for the CPA exams is that it is on your own time. Its not structured with deadlines like you are used to in school. I would schedule the exams and then create a schedule to get through the content. I used Becker and found the textbooks super helpful but did not really use the lectures. I would read each module and then write out my own outline. After feeling like had mastered it, I would do the Becker practice questions. Once through all the content, I would give myself about a week before the exam to review and continue to do practice questions.
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Celine’s Answer
Hi Erick,
What worked best for me was first understanding how I best learned and absorbed content. I used Becker, which had a physical textbook, virtual textbook, videos, and practice questions and exams. I learned best by doing as many practice questions as I could. If I continued to miss certain concepts, I would go to the textbook.
Hope this helps!
What worked best for me was first understanding how I best learned and absorbed content. I used Becker, which had a physical textbook, virtual textbook, videos, and practice questions and exams. I learned best by doing as many practice questions as I could. If I continued to miss certain concepts, I would go to the textbook.
Hope this helps!
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Laura’s Answer
Hi Erick,
I used Becker CPA Review and followed a very detailed study plan for each exam section. I mapped out each study day in advance by topic, which helped me stay organized and make steady progress.
For someone who learns best by doing rather than reading, I’d focus on practice questions, simulations, and full-length practice exams. Those are especially valuable because CPA Exam success is not just about knowing the material - it’s also about learning how to apply it under time pressure.
I’d also recommend building in regular review days so you can go back over missed questions and weak areas. Practicing time management during mock exams is just as important as studying the content itself. It helps you learn when to move on from a question so you do not rush at the end or spend too long on one problem.
You’ve got this, Erick!
I used Becker CPA Review and followed a very detailed study plan for each exam section. I mapped out each study day in advance by topic, which helped me stay organized and make steady progress.
For someone who learns best by doing rather than reading, I’d focus on practice questions, simulations, and full-length practice exams. Those are especially valuable because CPA Exam success is not just about knowing the material - it’s also about learning how to apply it under time pressure.
I’d also recommend building in regular review days so you can go back over missed questions and weak areas. Practicing time management during mock exams is just as important as studying the content itself. It helps you learn when to move on from a question so you do not rush at the end or spend too long on one problem.
You’ve got this, Erick!
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Shelly’s Answer
As someone who has worked with many CPA candidates, I have found that people who learn best by doing tend to be far more successful when they spend less time passively reading and more time actively working through questions and simulations. To my knowledge, the most effective approach is to use a structured CPA review course such as Becker, UWorld, or Surgent, but focus heavily on practice questions, task-based simulations, and cumulative review rather than trying to memorize the textbook. When you get a question wrong, spend time understanding why the correct answer is right and why the others are wrong. The CPA Exam rewards application of concepts more than rote memorization. For hands-on learners, I generally recommend a study routine centered around doing practice problems daily, reviewing mistakes, and taking regular mock exams to build both technical knowledge and exam stamina.
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Shay’s Answer
Hello! I remember taking the CPA exam four years ago, and I know studying can be tough. Here are some tips that really helped me:
I focused on studying during the weekdays and kept my weekends free for relaxation and a well-deserved break. I approached studying like a job, aiming for 40 hours each week. I also got a big whiteboard for my apartment, where I wrote down study notes and created acronyms. This gave me a fresh way to learn beyond just reading books.
I focused on studying during the weekdays and kept my weekends free for relaxation and a well-deserved break. I approached studying like a job, aiming for 40 hours each week. I also got a big whiteboard for my apartment, where I wrote down study notes and created acronyms. This gave me a fresh way to learn beyond just reading books.
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Katie’s Answer
I used the Becker CPA exam review to study for the CPA exam. What worked for me was focusing on one chapter at a time and not moving on until I scored over 80% on the multiple-choice questions. I watched the Becker videos and then practiced with the questions. I also made my own flashcards for any difficult formulas or terms and reviewed them thoroughly as I studied. Simulations are a helpful way to ensure you understand the concepts. After finishing all the chapters in Becker, I suggest taking a few full practice tests to see where you stand. Good luck with your CPA exam journey!
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Jonathan’s Answer
Hi Erick,
Thanks for your question! I wrapped up my CPA exams in November 2025 after studying for about six months, so I remember it well.
I used Becker for my exam prep, and it was great. Becker offers lots of multiple-choice questions and task-based simulations to practice with, even if you skip the lectures or textbook. They also provide flashcards and full-length practice exams to get you ready for the real thing.
I went through everything Becker had. I completed all the multiple-choice questions, task-based simulations, watched the lecture videos, took notes in the textbook, did the mini exams, full-length exams, reviewed all the flashcards, and did the final review. I aimed to cover everything, but in hindsight, I probably didn't need to do it all to pass. I passed all four exams on my first try.
Becker is a top choice for CPA prep and frequently updates their materials. I learned a lot from them, so I highly recommend Becker if you can afford it or if your employer covers the cost.
Hope this helps, and good luck with your CPA exams!
Thanks for your question! I wrapped up my CPA exams in November 2025 after studying for about six months, so I remember it well.
I used Becker for my exam prep, and it was great. Becker offers lots of multiple-choice questions and task-based simulations to practice with, even if you skip the lectures or textbook. They also provide flashcards and full-length practice exams to get you ready for the real thing.
I went through everything Becker had. I completed all the multiple-choice questions, task-based simulations, watched the lecture videos, took notes in the textbook, did the mini exams, full-length exams, reviewed all the flashcards, and did the final review. I aimed to cover everything, but in hindsight, I probably didn't need to do it all to pass. I passed all four exams on my first try.
Becker is a top choice for CPA prep and frequently updates their materials. I learned a lot from them, so I highly recommend Becker if you can afford it or if your employer covers the cost.
Hope this helps, and good luck with your CPA exams!
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Nicole’s Answer
My biggest piece of advice when it comes to studying for the CPA exam is covering as many multiple choice problems a day as possible, 50-100+. This was a challenge for me, I was used to taking diligent notes on practically every question, both when I got it right or wrong out of fear that if I didn't, the knowledge wouldn't stick or that I'd never be able to find the question again. But after a few exams I came to understand that each test was a marathon, not a sprint. Because each section covers such a large amount of material, it's more important to build a solid understanding across the entire subject than to spend hours trying to master one difficult topic/question type. I found that getting exposure to more questions and learning the main takeaway from my mistakes was much more valuable than spending time obsessing over every question I got wrong. The broader your knowledge base, the better prepared you'll be for exam day.
Additionally, from my experience, I couldn't listen to the lectures. Every time I tried, regardless or whether it was normal speed, 1.5x, or 2x, I would zone out almost instantly. I always had a guilt about this, that I was doing something wrong or being lazy, but really the learning process is highly subjective and I realized it's better to focus on the method that works rather than spending time on what doesn't just because it feels like you have to.
Lastly, I highly recommend doing all the practice exams, as exhausting as they may be over time, it's great for practicing endurance and performing under pressure. I also recommend memorizing at what point of the exam clock countdown you should be moving on to the next testlet. I know many people who did not do this and often ran out of time for multiple testlets on exam day, you don't want to fail only because you couldn't get to enough problems. I would often write on the scratch paper for each testlet where in the clock count down I must move on.
Good luck on your endeavor, stay persistent and you will persevere!
Additionally, from my experience, I couldn't listen to the lectures. Every time I tried, regardless or whether it was normal speed, 1.5x, or 2x, I would zone out almost instantly. I always had a guilt about this, that I was doing something wrong or being lazy, but really the learning process is highly subjective and I realized it's better to focus on the method that works rather than spending time on what doesn't just because it feels like you have to.
Lastly, I highly recommend doing all the practice exams, as exhausting as they may be over time, it's great for practicing endurance and performing under pressure. I also recommend memorizing at what point of the exam clock countdown you should be moving on to the next testlet. I know many people who did not do this and often ran out of time for multiple testlets on exam day, you don't want to fail only because you couldn't get to enough problems. I would often write on the scratch paper for each testlet where in the clock count down I must move on.
Good luck on your endeavor, stay persistent and you will persevere!
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Chris’s Answer
I used Becker and treated it like a short, intense project. I studied about 4 hours a day, took one weekend day off, finished all four sections in four months.
My advice is to study hard for a shorter window rather than dragging it out. The longer you stretch it, the easier it it to forget earlier material and lose momentum. Short and intense worked best for me.
My advice is to study hard for a shorter window rather than dragging it out. The longer you stretch it, the easier it it to forget earlier material and lose momentum. Short and intense worked best for me.
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Jialu’s Answer
Hey Erick,
I used Becker for my CPA exams, and here are some tips that really helped me pass:
1. Practice lots of multiple-choice questions and go over the explanations. This really helps you understand the material better.
2. I like using textbooks more than videos because they help me focus. Plus, it's easier to make my own notes.
3. I keep my study sessions short. If I study too long, I start forgetting things. So, I try to finish each exam in a month or less.
I used Becker for my CPA exams, and here are some tips that really helped me pass:
1. Practice lots of multiple-choice questions and go over the explanations. This really helps you understand the material better.
2. I like using textbooks more than videos because they help me focus. Plus, it's easier to make my own notes.
3. I keep my study sessions short. If I study too long, I start forgetting things. So, I try to finish each exam in a month or less.
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Junior’s Answer
Hi Erick
As someone who took multiple attempts. I found success when doing the following.
- Watch each lecture on 2X speed.
- Create a mini practice exam (10q no sims) before ending your study session that captures all chapters learned until then.
- Watch all simulation (answers)
- Keep a deck of flashcards with formulas and items you want to memorize
- Study everyday (if possible)
As someone who took multiple attempts. I found success when doing the following.
- Watch each lecture on 2X speed.
- Create a mini practice exam (10q no sims) before ending your study session that captures all chapters learned until then.
- Watch all simulation (answers)
- Keep a deck of flashcards with formulas and items you want to memorize
- Study everyday (if possible)
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Armando’s Answer
Hi,
When I began my CPA journey, I found it really helpful to watch each lecture and note down anything I didn't understand. After finishing the lectures, I made sure to do multiple-choice questions every day. It's really important to practice at least 25 questions daily to become familiar with them. Whenever I got a question wrong, I would take notes and make sure I understood why. You can do it too!
When I began my CPA journey, I found it really helpful to watch each lecture and note down anything I didn't understand. After finishing the lectures, I made sure to do multiple-choice questions every day. It's really important to practice at least 25 questions daily to become familiar with them. Whenever I got a question wrong, I would take notes and make sure I understood why. You can do it too!
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Wyatt’s Answer
If you learn better by doing, you should focus on MCQs and simulations. A lot of us tend to want to spam MCQs since it feels like you're making progress, but you have to be real with yourself if you're actually learning the material. I would still recommend heavy MCQ, but throw in some simulations to further test yourself.
Additionally, I would still recommend going through the lectures at 2X speed so that the MCQs aren't the first time you're seeing everything. You still need to learn the material, so if you're missing a MCQ, then you should go back to the lectures until you understand the concept. If you've gone through the lectures first, even at 2X, it gives you a little more context when trying to find further explanation.
I used Becker and they had what felt like endless new MCQs and simulations to use, so I don't think you can go wrong with them. If you're paying out of pocket rather than a firm reimbursement, you may want to consider cheaper options and hear the perspective of their users as well.
Additionally, I would still recommend going through the lectures at 2X speed so that the MCQs aren't the first time you're seeing everything. You still need to learn the material, so if you're missing a MCQ, then you should go back to the lectures until you understand the concept. If you've gone through the lectures first, even at 2X, it gives you a little more context when trying to find further explanation.
I used Becker and they had what felt like endless new MCQs and simulations to use, so I don't think you can go wrong with them. If you're paying out of pocket rather than a firm reimbursement, you may want to consider cheaper options and hear the perspective of their users as well.
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Brad’s Answer
I was a hands-on learner when studying for the CPA exam, and I discovered that the Becker CPA Review was the best fit for me. It has a lot of multiple-choice questions and excellent task-based simulations. Plus, it uses technology to find and strengthen your weak spots. For practicing questions over and over, Gleim study materials were also really useful. Since I had trouble setting aside regular study time, I became a classroom assistant for the Becker course. This role offered tuition help and required attendance, which really kept me on track.
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Amanda’s Answer
The CPA exam is challenging and requires a lot of study time. Becker offers an interactive approach to help you prepare. They guide you on how to underline or highlight key points during lectures and provide practice exams for hands-on learning. It's important to keep a study calendar to stay organized and schedule your exams with enough time to prepare without overdoing it. Flashcards were also very helpful for me. They are convenient to carry around or keep by your bedside for quick reviews before sleep.
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Erik’s Answer
Start by tackling questions before reviewing. Try your best, make mistakes, and then learn from them. This approach helps you remember better than just reading first. Mimic exam conditions by timing yourself, avoiding distractions, and not using notes. Practice as if it's the real test. Go over every wrong answer to understand your mistakes, which is crucial for improvement. Focus on strengthening weak areas instead of repeating what you already know. Study in short, focused bursts of 45-60 minutes, which is more effective than long, distracted sessions. Break down your study sessions by exam sections instead of trying to cover everything at once.
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Yamini’s Answer
Hi Erick,
A good way to study for the CPA Exam is to use a method that matches how you learn best. I used Becker, and I found that lecture videos helped with the big picture, while the lesson books and slides helped me understand the details more clearly. If you learn well by seeing and hearing concepts, videos may work best. If you prefer reading and going deeper, the lesson books from a CPA study platform may be more helpful. I also wrote down topics I struggled with so I could review them later. Also , do lots of practice questions and take time to understand the correct answer. Good luck with studying!
A good way to study for the CPA Exam is to use a method that matches how you learn best. I used Becker, and I found that lecture videos helped with the big picture, while the lesson books and slides helped me understand the details more clearly. If you learn well by seeing and hearing concepts, videos may work best. If you prefer reading and going deeper, the lesson books from a CPA study platform may be more helpful. I also wrote down topics I struggled with so I could review them later. Also , do lots of practice questions and take time to understand the correct answer. Good luck with studying!
Updated
Jorge’s Answer
Hi Erick
To prepare for the CPA Exam, it's helpful to create a study plan and practice daily. Many people use study guides or online courses that break down the material.
Try these tips:
Study in small chunks, not in one long session
Do lots of practice questions instead of just reading
Learn from your mistakes by reviewing them
Take breaks and ensure you get enough sleep
The key is to stay organized, practice regularly, and keep going, even though the exam is tough. With consistent effort, you can pass.
To prepare for the CPA Exam, it's helpful to create a study plan and practice daily. Many people use study guides or online courses that break down the material.
Try these tips:
Study in small chunks, not in one long session
Do lots of practice questions instead of just reading
Learn from your mistakes by reviewing them
Take breaks and ensure you get enough sleep
The key is to stay organized, practice regularly, and keep going, even though the exam is tough. With consistent effort, you can pass.