This is from the “Accounting Makes Cents” podcast episode #45 released on Monday, 31 July 2023.
In today’s episode, we are going to offer 10 tips when retaking a CIMA exam. Be it objective tests or case study exams, these tips should help students in approaching and preparing for the resit exams. Failing an exam is really demotivating, especially if you’ve worked real hard in studying and preparing for it, only to find out when the results come out that you did not make it.
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But I am here to spread some cheer and sprinkle some motivation. If you need to mope to grieve about your failing results, do so, but don’t be long about it. Failure is not a reflection of your potential. It’s a stepping stone on your path to success. Embrace this opportunity to learn from your mistakes, refine your approach, and emerge more prepared than ever. Success is journey of hard work, dedication and unwavering belief in yourself. Don’t lose sight of that. Keep pushing forward because that breakthrough, your breakthrough…is just around the corner.
Some of these tips may sound common sense, but I hope that hearing them will help reassure you that it can be done. Let’s start with our ten tips. Our first tip is to:
Tip #1 – Analyse your previous performance
To maximise your chances of success in CIMA exam resits, it is essential to analyse your past performance thoroughly. This means reviewing your previous exam results, identifying the areas where you scored poorly or struggled the most, and understanding the reasons behind those challenges. By pinpointing your weaknesses and acknowledging your strengths, you gain valuable insights that will inform your study strategy moving forward.
Tip #2 – Create a study plan
A well-structured study plan is a critical component of your preparation. After analysing your past performance, allocate sufficient time to cover all the syllabus areas. However, dedicate more time and effort to the topics or subjects that proved challenging previously. Organise your study plan in a way that allows for regular practice, revision, and breaks to avoid burnout.
Tip #3 – Use different study resources
Diversifying your study resources can significantly enhance your understanding of the subject matter. Utilise CIMA-approved study materials, authoritative textbooks, and online courses from reputable providers. Additionally, practice with mock exams and sample questions to familiarise yourself with the exam format and types of questions you may encounter.
Tip #4 – Focus on weak areas
Targeted preparation for your weaker areas is essential. Seek additional support from tutors, study groups, or online resources to gain clarity and grasp complex concepts. Reinforce your understanding through practice questions and practical applications to build confidence and competence.
Tip #5 – Practise past exam papers
Practice with past exam papers is an invaluable strategy for exam readiness. By attempting these papers under timed conditions, you simulate the exam environment and experience the pressure of real-time constraints. This practice enhances your time management skills, allows you to identify weak areas, and gives you the opportunity to fine-tune your exam approach.
Tip #6 – Simulate exam conditions
To further enhance your readiness, it is crucial to simulate exam conditions during your study sessions. Find a quiet and distraction-free environment, set a timer, and attempt practice questions as though you were taking the actual exam. This exercise helps develop focus, concentration, and composure, which are vital during the high-pressure exam situation.
Tip #7 – Seek support
Seeking support from knowledgeable individuals can be immensely beneficial. Engage with CIMA tutors, join study groups, or participate in online forums to discuss difficult topics, clarify doubts, and share insights. The exchange of ideas fosters a collaborative learning environment and helps broaden your perspectives.
Tip #8 – Learn from mistakes
Don’t shy away from analysing and learning from your past mistakes. Treat them as valuable learning opportunities rather than failures. Understand the errors you made, identify common pitfalls, and take note of your thought process during those instances. This knowledge will help you avoid repeating mistakes in future exams.
Tip #9 – Stay positive and stay motivated
A positive mindset and unwavering motivation are essential for success. Acknowledge your progress, no matter how small, and celebrate your achievements along the way. Cultivate a strong belief in your abilities and maintain a growth-oriented perspective, which will keep you resilient and focused throughout your preparation.
Tip #10 – Take care of yourself
Lastly, prioritise your well-being during exam preparation. Get enough rest, maintain a balanced diet, and engage in physical activities or relaxation techniques to reduce stress. A healthy mind and body are more receptive to learning, enabling you to perform at your best during the exam.
By applying these top tips with dedication and discipline, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the challenges of CIMA exam resits and achieving your professional goals. All I can say at this point is good luck!
Show notes simplified
Retaking CIMA exams after failing can be a harrowing and demotivating experience. In this episode, MJ the tutor offers 10 tips to help students face and overcome the resit exam. Be it the objective tests or the case study, these tips are applicable. MJ the tutor hopes this helps many students out there who are feeling despondent after failing an exam.
Credits:
“Ding Ding Small Bell” (https://freesound.org/s/173932/) by JohnsonBrandEditing (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1RImxnsbfngagfXd_GWCDQ) licensed under CC0 Licence.
MJ THE TUTOR 