The Institute of Cost Accountants of India is now conducting Online examinations at all the three levels i.e., Foundation, Intermediate and Final.

Will this change in the mode of examination affect your learning methodology or preparation strategy? Read this article to know all about how to prepare for CMA Online examinations.

All about CMA Online Examination and Its Strategies

(1) Question Pattern

The type of questions asked in the examination remains the same.

Only the form of the questions has changed.

The questions are of several types - 

MCQ

MCQs will be based upon a single question/case study. For instance, in case of practical papers, numerical problems would be given in the form of a case scenario and multiple MCQs would then be based upon that numerical problem [as shown in Illustration above]

Pro Tip: In order to solve these questions, you may follow the steps mentioned below:

Step 1: Read the entire question throroughly.

Step 2: Take a quick glance at all the multiple choice questions relating to the practical problem and make a note of the part you are required to solve.

Step 3: Solve the entire practical problem in a rough sheet just like you would do in a written examination

Step 4: Use your solution to answer the MCQs.

The only change that is required in your approach would be to ensure that your solution gives the answers to all the questions raised in the multiple choice questions.

General MCQs relating to the concepts which are independent of other questions.

These questions are much simpler and easier to solve if you have a sound understanding of the concepts.

**No Negative Marking for Incorrect answers.**

Answer all questions even if you do not know the correct answer.

Even if your solution does not provide the answer to a particular question, you may still choose any option which is the most appropriate according to you.

Descriptive

A few descriptive or subjective questions are also asked in the form of writing short notes and explanations which are to be typed in the space provided or to be uploaded.

Pro Tip: To prepare for such questions, you are advised to do some typing practice to increase your speed in typing or upload your answers after writing on paper.

If you are uploading your answers, ensure that you write in neat sheets of paper and scan them properly.

(2) How to make notes while doing your preparation/classes?

As discussed in the previous section, the type of questions remains the same so there would be no change in the learning methodology. You should complete the syllabus and prepare the notes in the same manner as you would do in case of a written examination. Notes should be prepared and presented properly will assist in revision.

Moreover, to become a knowledgeable professional it is essential to focus on clarity in concepts (which is possible only through in-depth study) rather than just aiming to clear the examination.

(3) How to practice for the exams?

As part of your preparation, you should attempt some Mock Tests to acquaint yourself with the online platform and the change in form of questions.

You should appear for Online Tests provided by the Institute before exams for all the subjects.

(4) What should be your exam strategy?

Since most of the questions are in the form of multiple choice, there is no need to follow all presentation requirements (tabular formats, working notes, related provisions and explanations etc.) to solve the questions.

You should present subjective answers properly by dividing your answers into paragraphs and points.

You are required to focus on the Study material of the Institute along with the study material and notes of your classes.

For solving the questions, follow the approach and method of the Institute.

Hope you found this article helpful!

Do share your views on this in the comments below!

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