Ask the Accounting Community

Hello!

I'm looking for tips on how to write essays that are clear, engaging, and score well in competitive exams.

I'd like to know how to structure essays so they are easy to read, such as using headings, smooth transitions, or even diagrams when needed.

I'm also interested in learning how to stay focused, cover important points, and avoid writing too much or going off-topic.

If there are ways to manage time better during essay writing and make my answers stand out, I'd love to hear about them.

It would also be helpful to know the dos and don'ts of writing essays.

Additionally, can you suggest which topics from CMA Part 1 I should focus on more for better results?

Thank you,
Sneha Mondana

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Sneha Mondana
Student
Kochi
India
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Hi Sneha
wrt essay :
1. Read and understand the central theme of the case. I.e Bond yield, RoE, CAPM - basically your first line should caputure the theme. Write 2-3 lines before you start answering the questions .
2. For questions, write one line on what you are going to do and why ( relate to the topic). Ex. In this question the investor has a limited risk profile and wants to earn maximum ROI. So, CAPM like of intersection b/w Beta and yield will provide the max return.
3. Write the formula
4. Solve the question - show the workings - high level - even if you would be solving it in paper and pencil
5. Last line : summarise your interpretation / Answer .
Wrt topics :
IMO cover all topics - don’t leave any. Unlike Indian exams, like 40 % in each subject and total 50%, CMA / CPA you can’t afford to leave any topic as the score is 75%. Assuming you tend to leave 5 questions and 10 incorrect answers ( this is quite normal ) - it hardly leaves you with any slack .

Best wishes
Devashis