Not everyone can say they successfully completed their CMA study plan and passed the exam on their first shot, but hopefully you will be able to.

If you want to be a part of the lucky few who manages to shine through, then here are 5 hacks that will help you crush your CMA study plan:

1. Keep the Material Fresh

Anything that you learn for the first time will take awhile to sink in. It’s important that you take a few small steps each and every day to help make it stick though.

The reason for this is twofold; Of course you want to be disciplined and ensure the material stays fresh in your brain, but also because you want to have the mental capacity to be ready to absorb new information related to the same topic.

The CMA, being technical by nature, commands much more effort in terms of routine and concentration. Devote an hour or two every single day to study and stick to it.

2. Cut Out Distractions

The internet is by far one of the easiest ways to procrastinate. With its plethora of memes, gifs and Facebook, it can be killer for your concentration and worse, your chances of completing your CMA study plan.

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If you are one of those people who is constantly using social media or playing on your smart phone every couple of minutes, then you need to be especially more careful. We have trained ourselves to answer the phone as it rings, check notifications as they arise and look for every piece of distracting news as and when it appears. One of the best CMA exam tips I can give you is to simply switch off.

Turn your mobile phone off, keep your laptop on standby and focus on the task at hand. Still finding it difficult? Head to a local library and immerse yourself in the study material.

3. Manage Your Time Wisely

Managing your time doesn’t just mean you do things you need to do, rather it means you maximize that time and make the most out of it.

There are a variety of tasks you can completed that can be s, while multi-tasking and being constructive with your studies.

How? Audio courses!

Many of the CMA exam review courses offer audio versions and it can be incredibly helpful for you to brush up on material while saving time on revision.

Daily tasks like doing the laundry, commuting to school or work, lunch breaks, and others depending on what your schedule is, can and should be utilized smartly.

“Know the true value of time; snatch, seize, and enjoy every moment of it. No idleness, no laziness, no procrastination: never put off till tomorrow what you can do today.” – Philip Stanhope, 4th Earl of Chesterfield

4. Take a Break from Your CMA Study Plan

We’ve all heard the term “Work Hard, Play Hard” and even during your CMA exam preparation you can abide by this philosophy.

Every week, take a day off and unwind. Don’t think or ado anything for your CMA prep at all – your brain needs the rest.

Do things you would do if there were no exams like go out for a drink, shopping or watch your favorite game, anything that makes you happy and relaxed!

It’s not just to help you recharge, but also for your mind to absorb the information already studied. Just like you need to take a rest day when you workout for your muscles to grow, the same way your mind needs a day off as well.

5. Figure out the Why 

There’s something powerful about having a goal, a purpose or a reason. It acts as a motivating tool that keeps you going when everything else fails.

When you start to resent all the studying and cramming, ask yourself what is it that makes you study for this exam in the first place? Why do you need to pass the exam badly? What is the benefit you’re going to get on passing it?

Chances are the answer are because you want to give yourself a chance at a better life and career. Once you have gained some clarity on this answer, you will have far less difficulty when it comes to focusing your attention on working towards your goal.

In the end, it’s a question of mind over matter. This exam is not easy, but if you prepare yourself mentally, stick to a good study structure and follow these 5 CMA exam tips then success is sure to follow!

“If you set goals and go after them with all the determination you can muster, your gifts will take you places that will amaze you.” – Les Brown

Which hack will you be applying to your studies? Share below in the comments section.

Hi, I’m Nathan Liao (aka the CMA Coach)! For the last 10 years, over 82,000 accounting and finance pros came knocking at my door seeking guidance and help. If you’re also aiming to conquer the CMA exam on your very first try—without wasting away time or money—you’ve found your ultimate guide. Dive in deeper to discover more about me and the dedicated team that powers CMA Exam Academy. Click here and let’s embark on this journey together!