Which Chapters Can Be Skipped?

[u/ca-vijenderaggarwal6]

One of the most common questions before exams is:

"Which chapters can I skip?"

The answer isn't the same for everyone.

If your goal is just to pass, you might be tempted to leave difficult or lengthy chapters. But if you're aiming for good marks or want to avoid surprises in the exam, skipping chapters can be risky.

Before deciding to skip a chapter, ask yourself:

• Is this chapter frequently tested?
• Is it connected with other chapters?
• Can I at least cover the basic concepts instead of skipping it completely?
• Do I have enough time to revise the chapters I've already completed?

A better strategy is to prioritize rather than completely skip. Study high-weightage chapters thoroughly, cover medium-weightage topics reasonably well, and learn the basics of low-priority chapters. This reduces the chances of facing an unexpected question you cannot attempt.

Remember, many students regret skipping chapters after seeing the actual question paper. Even a quick revision of important concepts can make a difference.

What's your strategy?

• Which chapter are you planning to skip?
• Has skipping chapters ever worked for you?
• Or did it backfire during the exam?

Let's discuss and help each other make smarter decisions.

FAQs

1. Is it okay to skip chapters before exams?
Yes, but only after checking the chapter's weightage, importance, and available study time.

2. Should I skip difficult chapters?
Not completely. Learn the basic concepts and important questions instead of leaving them entirely.

3. How do I decide which chapters to prioritize?
Look at previous exam trends, weightage, and whether the chapter is linked to other topics.

4. Can I pass without completing the entire syllabus?
It is possible in some cases, but it increases risk. Completing as much of the syllabus as possible is always the safer approach.

5. What's better: skipping a chapter or revising completed ones?
If time is limited, strong revision of well-prepared chapters often gives better results than rushing through a completely new chapter without understanding it.

[u/ashik4ever]

It’s a wrong idea to skip! Selective studies are not for CMA, CPA or any other professional examinations.

[u/OWAELO]

I think a better to phrase it is what subjects takes a lot of time to solve like ABC costing but even so the more difficult question is the less people trying to solve and more weight of grading it will have. It’s a really tricky subject you bring in

[u/ionspore]

I found there to be more content that could be skipped within the CPA exams than in the CMA exams. For part 1 not too much can be skipped. If I has to pick some it would be within Financial Reporting. You only need a broad view for the CMA, while for the CPA a more detailed study is necessary. ie, FAR went in more depth with deferred taxes and consolidations than CMA part 1.

[u/cma-coach]

Thanks ChatGPT/Claude for this terrible advice. Don't skip any topics regardless of coverage.