Nasheen Wuisman answers a question about how to make the most of past exam papers.
Question
When studying for the case study exam I have tried to use past papers and the solutions to past exams to try to improve my answers, but my answer never looks like the suggested solution.
I find this demoralising and struggle to see the point of this exercise. Should I carry on using past papers?
Nasheen’s answer
If you were cooking, creating a piece of artwork or singing a song you would put your own personal stamp on it, use your own flair to create something that is unique to you. Your version, done well, is not of less beauty than anyone else’s version.
The same applies when you write an answer to a case study task. You adopt the persona, you learn the technical knowledge, you analyse the pre-seen. And when you put it together, the key is to demonstrate the exam skills in a clear way – but make it your own.
Past exam papers are an excellent basis to prepare for your next case study exam; they help you get in the right mindset and familiarise yourself with the exam format. Most importantly, they help you test your knowledge and practise your question-answering skills.
Using past papers efficiently
- Your answer will always look different from the model answer, and that’s okay. Your writing reflects your unique style and there’s no need to change that.
- Don’t assume that if your answer looks different from the model answer it won’t score well. However, you need to make sure you understand the suggestions in the model answer to help improve your approach for your next attempt at a task.
- Carefully consider the approach taken in the model answer. Take time to study how different pieces of information from different sources (pre-seen, unseen, technical knowledge) have all been pulled together to create a comprehensive answer.
- Look at the way each point has been communicated – concise, value-adding sentences, without having to increase the amount you write.
- Be fair to yourself. Give yourself credit for the parts of your answer where you have demonstrated recommended skills well – and remember to replicate that next time.
- Reflect and revise. Actively try to see how you would change your attempted answer, especially when it comes to bringing in knowledge application skills and linking more effectively to the pre-seen.
- And finally: practise, practise, practise! The examining team is very clear: practising past papers and learning from the guidance offered will increase your chances of passing your case study. So, make it a central part of your exam preparation. Don’t shy away from it!
Remember, past papers aren’t old news, they’re a powerful tool to sharpen your exam skills and confidence. Make the most of them.
- Nasheen Wuisman, Senior Manager of Global Academic Progression at AICPA & CIMA, together as the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants
