Effective study skills not only significantly increase your chances of passing your exams, they also minimise the amount of work you need to do. Whilst they will never do away with all the hard work, they ensure you focus on relevant areas only which are then efficiently learnt.
Achieving the associateship qualification is no easy task. You must pass one of the most demanding examinations around, and, while studying, you are probably also working full time. After a day at the office, studying may be the last thing you want to do. While there is no magic solution or secret formula that will take all the hard work out of studying for your exams, there are certain skills that will help you study more effectively.
1. Motivation
Any system of studying, no matter how effective, requires some work. Without a special goal or aim, you may find it difficult to work up the enthusiasm for study.
2. Material handling
It helps to realise that study texts are written in a way that will bring out the key points of the syllabus and to focus on the things you really need to know.
3. Time management
Good time management skills are the key to successful studying. Having sorted out the core topics to study you should draw up a time plan in the form of a chart showing each available day until the exam.
4. Environment management
Prepare an environment that avoids distractions and is conducive to study. Choose a room away from the main living areas. Keep it well ventilated to avoid drowsiness and have a good desk and chair that are comfortable. Invest in a desk lamp to prevent eye strain.
5. Active Learning
Active learning (by doing) is far better than passive learning. Doing the question is essential as this is the activity through which you learn. Getting it wrong is not a problem - you will learn by your mistakes and avoid them next time.
Effective study skills enable you to pass exams whilst maintaining both your sanity and character.
The pains of studying are more bearable if you are certain they are bringing the gains of knowledge necessary to achieve a pass.
Too few tax specialists understand the importance of study skills and the benefits they can bring. To minimise effort and maximise your potential, cultivate your study skills.