
The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) exams are popular for their complexity and rigor, demanding inclusive knowledge, critical thinking skills, and effective exam strategies. To increase your chances of success in ACCA in Abu Dhabi, it’s essential to be aware of common pitfalls and mistakes that candidates often encounter. In this article, we highlight eight common mistakes to avoid ensuring a smooth and successful exam experience.
Lack of poor time management:
One of the most common mistakes in ACCA exams is poor time management. Candidates often struggle to allocate sufficient time to each question, resulting in rushed answers or incomplete responses. Avoid this mistake by practicing time management techniques during your exam preparation, such as setting time limits for each question and practicing under timed conditions.
Neglecting to read the question carefully:
Misreading or misunderstanding exam questions can lead to significant errors and lost marks. Take the time to read each question carefully, paying attention to key instructions, requirements, and calculation details. Underline or highlight important information to ensure clarity and accuracy in your responses.
Failing to plan your answers:
Jumping straight into answering exam questions without planning can lead to disorganized and incomplete responses. Before starting each question, take a few moments to plan your answer structure, outline key points, and allocate time for each section. A well-structured and organized response will showcase your understanding and increase your chances of scoring full marks.
Overlooking technical detail:
ACCA exams often require candidates to demonstrate technical proficiency in accounting standards, principles, and calculations. Failing to apply the correct accounting treatments or omitting essential technical details can result in significant mark deductions. Review and practice technical concepts thoroughly to ensure accuracy and precision in your responses.
Ignoring professional skepticism and judgment:
Professional skepticism and judgment are essential skills for ACCA candidates, especially in audit and assurance papers. Avoid the mistake of blindly accepting information presented in exam scenarios without critically evaluating its reliability, relevance, and implications. Exercise professional skepticism by questioning assumptions, gathering sufficient audit evidence, and exercising sound judgment in your responses.
Neglecting to show calculations and workings:
In quantitative papers such as Financial Management and Performance Management, failing to show calculations and workings can result in lost marks, even if the final answer is correct. Always show your calculations and workings clearly, using appropriate formats and labels to demonstrate your understanding of the underlying concepts.