Recommended Reading
Read each question carefully before starting to write
Start each question on a fresh page and number each question clearly at the top of the page. Leave at least half a page at the end of a question in case you have time to come back to it later and wish to add some more information.
If necessary leave a blank page before the next question. If you have to split a question, clearly label where the rest of the question can be found.
Put the start and finish time at the top of the page before you star to answer a question. Allow yourself an extra 5 minutes in necessary, but no longer.
Approach to each question
Read through again carefully, highlighting the key data. Decide what steps you need to take to answer the question. Draw up any appropriate tables, leaving a blank line between each line of your answer. If you need to calculate a number to go in the pro forma, make sure you clearly indicate where that calculation can be found.
Try to keep your numbers neatly aligned – it makes it easier to add up columns afterwards.
Check every calculation before moving on to next step.
Reread the question before moving on to the next question. Make sure you have answered all the parts and answered the question as set.
Remember, you can collect 80% of the marks in the first 20% of the time.
Make sure you understand exactly what the examiner is asking you in the questions. Writing every thing you know about a subject (the scattergun approach) is unlikely to gain you marks. Two or three short sentences pertinent to the question will.
Give yourself the best chance of passing an ACCA exam by attempting every part of every question.
