For starters, it’s important you realize that one size does not fit all when it comes to CPA Exam strategy. Everyone has different things going for them, and depending on what variables apply to you, you’ll need to tweak your own CPA Exam strategy accordingly.

With that being said, if you're a professional studying for the CPA Exam, a full-time job poses a common problem — time and the lack thereof. So here are a few things to keep in mind: 

Change your mindset.

It’s not helpful to stay stuck in the  “I’m too busy and can’t find the time to study” mode of thinking. 

I’m busy, you’re busy, everyone’s busy. That fact is already proven, so it’s time to move on to asking yourself a simple question: How badly do I want to become a CPA? 

Megan Sheehan works at Deloitte & Touche in New York. Learn more about her CPA Exam journey below!

In early February, I had the pleasure of witnessing Dan Black, Global Recruiting Leader at EY, present at the American Accounting Association's APLG conference.  His presentation was titled: “The Future of Work” and helped shine further light on how the changing world around us is affecting recruiting and the accounting profession in positive and exciting ways. 

I was extremely inspired by what he had to say and couldn’t wait to share this message with our audience. Dan graciously accepted my recent invitation for an interview to provide further insight on how the recruiting process is evolving to adapt to Generation Z, the positive embrace of new technology, and how firms are evolving the way they present their cultural and brand identities.

If you aren't already aware, the CPA Exam underwent some changes on January 1, 2018. The most noticeable change to occur is on Revenue Recognition in the Financial Auditing and Reporting (FAR) section of the exam--also known to candidates to be the most dense, and therefore daunting, section. But that's not all. With the tax bill just being passed by congress, that means the CPA Exam is going to undergo even more change beginning on January 1, 2019 in the Regulation (REG) section to reflect the new bill.

Starting April 1, 2018, the AICPA has determined that the CPA Exam will undergo a series of changes set to improve the User Experience.  Among these updates is the inclusion of Microsoft Excel, which is replacing the previous generic spreadsheet tool that has been available within the Exam.  This should be a welcomed change, as Excel is the foremost spreadsheet tool used throughout the profession, and most candidates have had exposure either on the job, within their college accounting curriculum, or both.