Studying CPA During Tax Season

Accounting is a profession which usually has busy seasons. However, despite the busy season you will still need to work on your CPA qualifications, as putting aside your CPA qualification dream will be a poor call. This is because the exams are very vital in making you a CPA and can boost your career. Time may be limited, especially towards the 18-months duration for section credit, but for an individual to perform well in these two demanding activities these possible steps can assist you during the CPA prep period:

SET YOUR PRIORITIES.

Preparing for a CPA examination during the busy season is not an easy task. It can be one of the most challenging times in your life. For you to achieve the best, you have to decide and set your priorities. You should consider your study time and working hours to decide which will be on top of your priority list. You should also look into finding a CPA prep tutor to help keep you accountable so you can best utilize your time.

Your family and health also matter a lot, and you should create time for them on the list. Your family plays a crucial part since they offer encouragement and support. You can slot some time for your hobbies or fun, which will assist you in freshening up so you don’t burnout during this stressful time. If you are tired and starving, you won’t be able to perform well.

PLAN YOUR TIME.

After setting your priorities straight, you can create a CPA prep plan to guide you. Since it’s a busy season, you can sacrifice 50-60 hours in a week for work. From the remaining hours in the week, 1-2 hours a day can be enough for your study time. You will need a total of 140-150 hours per unit for your CPA prep. Therefore, if you can spend 20 hours a week on your books, you can achieve this in seven weeks.

Other activities are essential like sleeping and eating. You have to slot time for these activities in your schedule. You should also create time for your family and exercising. You can use this schedule throughout the busy period.

CREATE MORE STUDY SESSIONS.

Creating two hours in 10+ hours working day will require proper time management. You can create more time in the morning and the evening for your studies. You can create 30-40 minutes for CPA prep in the morning. Make sure before you sleep all the things you need are well set to limit preparation time in the morning. In the evening, you can create an hour of your free time. You should also make use of an environment that is conducive for learning. This can be in your office or any other quiet place like in the public library.

COMMUNICATE YOUR INTENTIONS.

It will be a good idea if your seniors know you are studying for CPA during the busy season. You may give them your study plan and guarantee them that you will be able to deliver your duties as expected.

MAXIMIZE YOUR TIME.

During the busy season, your job may take more of your time. You will need to overlap some activities to create time for your studies. This is achievable by making sure your working hours are productive. You do your best to cut off any distractions that you have during this period. Also, you can create time where you may respond to your emails and messages. Ensure that your priorities stay aligned before doing anything else.

MULTITASKING.

If possible, during your busy schedule, you can spend those few seconds in your day studying. You can turn your lunch break to a studying session. Look for a quiet restaurant where you will be able to do this. This ensures you make use of every minute in your busy days.

WATCH YOUR HEALTH.

During this period, you need to keep your energy levels high. This can only be achieved through exercising, adequate sleep, and good eating habits. You should get enough sleep in the stipulated time, so try creating a quiet environment 30 minutes prior to your sleep time which helps slow down your brain.

Working out in the morning or the evening can also help in boosting your health. You can even listen to a CPA prep audio lecture as you exercise. If your exercise time is adequate, you will be able to increase your energy levels.

You should also focus on eating foods that will give you energy for more extended periods. Foods like nuts, avocado, coffee and also eggs can keep you energized for some time.   

APPLY FOR A STUDY LEAVE.

If the CPA exams are scheduled to take place after the busy season, you can apply for study leave. Taking three or four days will make you concentrate more on your CPA prep.       

APPRECIATE YOUR EFFORTS.

If you have achieved the day’s set targets, you may reward yourself with one of your fun priorities. You can play a game or watch a movie to help you feel better. If you survive the busy season and pass your CPA exams, you can even take some time off and go for a vacation.       

CONCLUSION.

Having a well thought out study plan during the high season will have a significant impact on your CPA examination success. You can also make use of practice exams which will help you get familiar with the exam before the actual date. You can use Adaptive CPA review to test for your weak areas. Once you know your weaknesses, work on making the best out of the report.