Studying for ACCA exams is not easy. Every paper is detailed, and the concepts can feel heavy if you don’t have a clear plan. Many students feel lost because they don’t know how to study, not because they cannot study.
This blog shares simple, practical, and student-friendly study tips that any ACCA student can follow. No complicated words just clear guidance to help you prepare confidently for your exams.

1. Understand the ACCA Exam Format

Before opening the book, take a moment to understand what your exam actually looks like. ACCA exams are very structured, and each paper has a clear pattern.

You should know:

• How many questions are asked
• What type of questions you will face (MCQs, long answers, calculations)
• How much each question carries
• How much time you have

When you know these basics, you study with purpose.
Most students who score well always start by reviewing:

• Past papers
• Examiners’ comments
• Sample papers on the ACCA website

This gives you a picture of what the examiner wants and how to approach the exam properly.

2. Create a Realistic Study Plan

A study plan is not about studying 10 hours a day. It is about studying regularly and smartly.

Here is a simple way to make a study plan:

• Divide each topic into small parts
• Do 2–3 focused hours daily
• Add break time so your mind stays fresh
• Keep Sundays or one day a week for revision
• Make a list of topics that feel difficult and give them extra time

Your plan should fit your routine not the other way around. Even slow and steady progress helps you move towards your goal.

3. Focus on Conceptual Understanding

ACCA is not a memory test. It checks how well you understand concepts and how you apply them to real business situations.

Here’s how to understand concepts better:

• Watch short explanation videos
• Relate topics to real-life examples
• Ask questions whenever you feel confused
• Make your own notes in simple language

For example, if you are studying budgeting, think about how companies plan their monthly expenses. This makes the concept easier to remember.

4. Practice Past Papers Regularly

Past papers are your best friends during preparation. They show you the exact style of questions and help you test yourself.

Try this routine:

• Pick one past paper every week
• Set a timer and solve it like a real exam
• After finishing, compare your answers with the marking scheme
• Identify where you made mistakes
• Fix mistakes by revising those topics again

This habit trains your brain for the real exam day and improves your speed, accuracy, and confidence.

5. Use ACCA Approved Study Resources

There are many books and notes available online, but not all of them are helpful. To avoid confusion, always use trusted resources like:

• ACCA-approved study texts
• Revision kits
• Official ACCA articles
• Video lectures from reliable platforms

These materials are updated according to the exam pattern and explain topics in a clear, simple way.

6. Build Exam-Style Writing Skills

Many students lose marks because they do not present their answers properly even when they understand the topic.

To improve writing skills:

• Use headings
• Write short, clear sentences
• Don’t add unnecessary information
• Show calculations clearly
• Explain in a simple, logical flow

A clean answer is easier for the examiner to read, and it shows your understanding clearly.

7. Join Study Groups or Seek Guidance

Studying with others helps you learn faster. You hear different explanations, understand different viewpoints, and learn shortcuts you may not know alone.
If group study is not possible, try:

• Online groups
• Teacher support
• Discussion forums

Sometimes one explanation from a friend or teacher can clear a topic that you struggled with for days.

8. Take Care of Your Health

A tired mind cannot study, no matter how hard you try.
So remember to:

• Sleep well
• Eat properly
• Drink enough water
• Take short breaks
• Avoid late-night cramming sessions

When your mind is fresh, you understand concepts faster and remember them longer.

9. One Week Before the Exam

This week is about revision, not learning new chapters.
Your focus should be:

• Quick revision
• Solving mock exams
• Reviewing past mistakes
• Keeping your notes organized

Stay calm, stay positive, and trust your preparation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

These FAQs are added naturally as part of student concerns.

1. How many hours should ACCA students study daily?

There is no fixed number. Most students find that 2–3 focused hours every day are enough if they are consistent.

2. Can I prepare for ACCA without tuition?

Yes, many students self-study. Just make sure to use ACCA-approved books, past papers, and online resources.

3. How early should I start preparing for my exam?

Ideally, start 10–12 weeks before the exam. If the paper is difficult for you, start earlier.

4. Are past papers enough for passing the exam?

Past papers are important, but they are not enough on their own. You also need:

• Clear concepts
• Revision kits
• Good writing practice

5. What should I do if I feel stressed during preparation?

Take short breaks, talk to someone, divide your workload, or change your study environment. Stress is normal just don’t let it stop you.

Conclusion

ACCA exams become easier when you follow a simple and smart approach. Understand the exam structure, make a practical study plan, keep your concepts strong, and practice past papers regularly. With consistency, discipline, and a calm mind, every ACCA student can prepare confidently and achieve success.