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  • 1.  How's everyone doing this summer?

    Posted 06-30-2025 15:34

    Hi everyone! My name is Stephanie and I have been testing since last November. I work as a Senior Tax Associate in Fort Worth and I was wanting to get all sections of the CPA passed before the end of the summer. Unfortunately, I did not measure how ambitious this goal was. After failing Audit, I have decided to focus on work for the summer and try again in the winter. Does anyone have any studying tips?



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    Stephanie Galvan
    Tax Associate
    CLA
    Fort Worth TX
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  • 2.  RE: How's everyone doing this summer?

    Posted 07-01-2025 07:10

    Hi Stephanie,

    Firstly, I would consider trying for audit again relatively soon while much of the material is still fresh. Use your score report to help you hone in on the areas that need it the most.

    As for study tips, you know yourself best.  Definitely consider the advice of others but if you know that doing flashcards does not work for you, don't bother with them. I personally got the most from the video lectures and hardly read from the books. Everyone will have a different "what works for them".

    Try to find your own personal "peak' study time where you can feel the most focused on studying. For many, it is first thing in the morning. For me, it was typically between 7pm and 10pm. After my food is settling from dinner and before I would start to wind down for bed. 

    Lastly, try to take a pratice exam AT LEAST 2 weeks before your actual exam. Even if you have not yet finished all the material. This can help you to focus your last few weeks in the areas that you need them the most.

    Happy to chat more on any other questions you might have!



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    Bryan Morgan Jr. CPA
    Senior Manager - Data Analytics
    PowerGrid Services, LLC
    New Braunfels TX
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    Original Message


  • 3.  RE: How's everyone doing this summer?

    Posted 07-02-2025 07:47

    Hi Stephanie! Audit is really challenging, even for those of us who choose to go that route in our day jobs. The good news is memory devices should serve you well on this one. Bryan's advice is good and I would especially second the idea of getting back to studying while the material is still fresh.  

    I would also add these if you're not already doing them:

    • if you have a comprehensive review course with diagnostics, spend your study time in the areas where you are weakest. Revisit the MCQs in those areas frequently until you have them down.
    • Mix up your study approach with a combination of focused work alone and review with a study buddy or mentor.  It will help prevent burnout, help you maintain discipline (you'll have to coordinate and be accountable with another person), and if you can "teach it" to someone else in you own words, you'll know you're done with an area. 
    • Don't be shy about reaching out for help if there's an area you just can't seem to get. If you don't have a tutor or study buddy who can help you, consider posting a call for help on some of the stuff you're struggling with on the candidate exchange. Someone here might be able to explain the concept differently in a way that makes sense for you.

    Good luck!



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    Mehgan Ibanez CPA
    Carr Riggs & Ingram LLC
    Lufkin TX
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    Original Message


  • 4.  RE: How's everyone doing this summer?

    Posted 07-02-2025 14:28

    Great tips and advice from Bryan and Mehgan! We appreciate you.

    Are there any candidates who may have anything else to add? Please feel free to chime in!



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    Shicoyia Morgan M Ed.
    Student and School Engagement Coordinator
    Texas Society of CPAs
    Addison TX
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    Original Message