9 Atomic Habits to pass the CPA Exam

9 Ways to Pass The CPA Exam with Atomic Habits

Studying for the CPA is one of the hardest things most people will do academically and can only be achieved with good study habits. Here's how you can benefit from the principles outlined in James Clear's best selling book Atomic Habits.

1. Start Small: If fear of an overwhelming workload is what is holding you back from starting to study for the CPA exam, then start small!

Do just 2 minutes of studying and build from there. Do 2 minutes a day one week, then the next week 5 minutes a day, and the next week 15, and then before you know it you will be studying an hour or 2 a day.

The hardest part to most things is starting, so if that is what is holding you back make it as easy as possible. Studying for 2 minutes won’t get you through the CPA Exams, but it can get you to start, which is the most important part.

2. Make It Obvious: Create a dedicated study environment that makes it easy to start studying. Organize your study materials, set up a quiet and comfortable workspace, and remove distractions. When everything is ready and visible, it becomes easier to dive into your study sessions.

3. Habit Stacking: Connect your study habit to an existing routine or habit. For example, you can decide to study for 30 minutes immediately after your morning coffee or right after dinner. Habit stacking helps anchor your study habit to a specific trigger.

4. Consistency is Key: Consistency in study habits is essential. It’s not too hard to study on those days when you’re feeling motivated and excited, but what about the days where you’re not feeling great and you’re really busy? Those are the most important days to show up on.

Keeping your good habits, even when you feel bad can be the difference between success and failure. This does not mean you can never take a day off from studying or rest when you’re feeling sick. What it means is that on the days when you’re feeling lazy or unmotivated (we’ve all been there) you need to stick to your good habits. Even if it is just a few minutes of work, its better than nothing.

Or if you really do need a full day off, which is completely understandable, just make sure it doesn’t turn into 2, 3, 4, or 5 days off.

5. Set Clear Goals: Clearly define your goals for the CPA exam. Break down these goals into smaller, more achievable milestones, such as completing a certain number of practice questions or sections of study material. Knowing what you're working toward provides motivation and direction.

6. Track Progress: The human brain loves to feel like it is accomplishing