Which Subject Should I Tackle First? Seeking Exam Pairing Advice
Hi everyone,
I’m currently developing my ACCA exam strategy and would appreciate your insights. I have exemptions for all the Knowledge Level papers, along with TX and LW. My plan is to take one exam in June and then two exams each quarter afterwards.
I’m thinking about starting with FR—but I’m wondering if it would be feasible to pair AA and PM/FM together after that. Alternatively, would it make more sense to begin with PM, then take FR and AA at the same time?
I’d love to hear from those who have experience in this area—what do you think is the best approach? If neither of these options sounds good, I’m open to any suggestions you might have!
Thanks so much in advance! 😊
One response
Hey there!
It sounds like you have a solid foundation with your exemptions, which is great! Given your plan to take one exam in June followed by two exams each quarter, here’s a suggestion that might help you decide on the best pairing.
Starting with FR is a strong choice. It provides a comprehensive grounding in financial reporting and will make concepts in AA (Audit & Assurance) clearer since understanding financial statements is crucial for that subject. After completing FR, pairing AA with PM (Performance Management) could work well, as both subjects can complement each other—understanding financial reports will enhance your performance management skills.
On the other hand, if you choose to start with PM first, it might be challenging to then pair it with FR and AA together, as you’d be dealing with a hefty workload in one block.
Ultimately, I’d recommend starting with FR and then taking AA and PM (or FM if you’re leaning that way) subsequently. This approach allows you to build upon your knowledge gradually and leverage your understanding from FR when diving into the others.
Whichever you choose, make sure to allow plenty of time for revision and practice, especially when gearing up for the exams in pairs!
Good luck, and trust your instincts—you’ve got this! 😊