CFA Exam Tips
Master the CFA exam with battle-tested strategies from successful candidates and CFA charterholders. Learn what really works on exam day.
Study Phase Tips
Maximize your preparation with these proven study strategies.
📚 Reading Strategy
- • Read actively with a specific purpose - don't just consume content
- • Take notes in your own words to ensure understanding
- • Create concept maps linking related topics across readings
- • Practice questions immediately after each reading session
🎯 Practice Strategy
- • Quality over quantity - understand every wrong answer
- • Time yourself on individual questions and topic tests
- • Keep an error log and review weekly
- • Practice under exam conditions (no distractions, proper timing)
🧠 Memory Techniques
- • Use spaced repetition for key formulas and concepts
- • Create acronyms for complex lists (e.g., ethics standards)
- • Teach concepts to others (study groups or family)
- • Use visual aids and diagrams for complex processes
Exam Day Mastery
Critical strategies for peak performance on exam day.
✅ Do This
- • Arrive early and get comfortable with your workspace
- • Read questions carefully - identify what's being asked
- • Use the elimination method for difficult questions
- • Flag uncertain answers and return if time permits
- • Stay calm and maintain steady pacing throughout
❌ Avoid This
- • Don't spend more than 2 minutes on any single question
- • Don't change answers unless you're very confident
- • Don't panic if you encounter unfamiliar material
- • Don't leave any questions blank (no penalty for guessing)
- • Don't study new material the night before
Level-Specific Strategies
Level 1 Strategy
Focus on breadth over depth. Ethics is crucial - it can boost your score significantly. Practice time management with 180 questions in 4.5 hours.
Level 2 Strategy
Master item sets - read the case carefully, then tackle questions efficiently. FSA and Equity are heavily weighted. Don't get stuck on one item set.
Level 3 Strategy
Practice essay writing extensively. Show your work clearly. Time allocation is critical - don't spend too long on morning essays.
Final Week Preparation
Your Final Week Checklist
7 Days Before
- • Complete final mock exam
- • Review formula sheet
- • Organize exam day materials
1 Day Before
- • Light review only
- • Get good sleep (8+ hours)
- • Prepare healthy exam day meals
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