At CSB Group, we are proud to be an ACCA Approved Employer, supporting aspiring finance professionals as they work towards excellence in their studies and careers. As part of our ongoing commitment to professional growth and continuous learning, we’re sharing a few practical insights to help ACCA students study smarter, stay motivated, and reach their full potential.
Pursuing the ACCA qualification is a significant milestone; one that requires focus, discipline, and a strategic approach. Whether you’re just beginning your studies or preparing for your final papers, these five essential tips can help you make the most of your efforts and set yourself up for long-term success.
Tip 1: Plan Smart, Not Just Hard
A well-structured study plan is the backbone of effective ACCA preparation. Start preparing early, ideally three months before the exam, to give yourself enough time to understand the material fully and revisit it more than once. Create a realistic study timetable that breaks down the syllabus into manageable sections, balancing your workload across topics and including time for revision and mock exams.
Throughout your studies, make short, focused notes that summarise key points in your own words. These concise summaries will become invaluable during the final week, when you’ll want to review efficiently rather than go through full textbooks.
Treat your studies like a project: set smaller goals, track your progress, and stay consistency. A little each day adds up to big results.
Tip 2: Focus on Understanding, Not Memorising
ACCA exams test application, not memory. Focus on understanding the logic behind accounting standards, management concepts, and financial decision-making. Many learners are visual thinkers, so use colours, diagrams, and highlighting to make your notes engaging. Some studies suggest that writing notes horizontally across the page can help your brain connect ideas more effectively. For decision-based topics, create flowcharts or yes/no diagrams that show how outcomes change depending on different scenarios. These visual cues make complex concepts easier to recall during exams.
Never hesitate to ask questions or seek guidance. At CSB Group, we actively encourage collaboration. Many of our team members are ACCA-qualified professionals who are always willing to share their experience and help colleagues through challenging topics.
Tip 3: Practise Past Papers Under Exam Conditions
Practice builds confidence and familiarity with the exam format. Work through past ACCA exam papers under timed, exam-like conditions to simulate the real experience. One of the most common exam pitfalls is not reading the question carefully. Before you start writing, take a moment to fully understand what’s being asked; whether it’s to discuss, evaluate, calculate, or justify. This ensures your answers stay focused and relevant, and that you earn marks for addressing the examiner’s exact requirements.
After each attempt, take time to review your answers carefully. Identify where you lost marks; whether due to timing, misunderstanding, or structure; and note how you can improve next time. Analysing your performance is just as important as the practice itself.
Tip 4: Use Official ACCA Resources Wisely
Official ACCA materials, including study guides, examiner reports, technical articles, and specimen papers are among the most reliable tools available. Examiner reports, in particular, offer valuable insight into what the examiners expect and where candidates often go wrong. Use them to shape your revision plan and focus on what matters most. Studying smarter means focussing on fewer resources but using them more effectively.
Tip 5: Prioritise your wellbeing
Studying for the ACCA is a marathon, not a sprint. Take regular breaks of 5-10 minutes, ideally every 40 minutes, to keep your mind sharp and your focus strong. Choose a study environment that helps you focus; whether that’s your desk, a quiet café, or even an outdoor spot like the beach or a park. Changing your surroundings can boost creativity and concentration. Don’t underestimate the value of rest. A balanced routine with regular exercise, enough sleep, and proper downtime is key to sustainable success.
Final Thoughts
The ACCA qualification is more than a set of exams; it’s a foundation for lifelong professional growth. By planning early, understanding deeply, practising effectively, and maintaining balance, you set yourself up not only for exam success but also for a successful career in finance.
At CSB Group, we understand the value of continuous learning and professional development. As an ACCA Approved Employer, we’re proud to support professionals on their journey toward achieving excellence; because smarter business, and smarter studying, truly start here.
About the Author
This article has been authored by Francesca Caruana, Manager - Client Accounting.
