
Hey there, future CA!
So you’ve decided to go for CA and have your eyes set on clearing the CA Foundation exam. First of all – kudos to you. It’s a big step. But let’s be real – this journey isn’t just about how many hours you study or how many books you read. It’s also about what not to do.
Yes, you read that right.
A lot of students who fail or struggle with CA Foundation didn’t necessarily study less – they just made small mistakes that cost them big.
So let’s talk about those mistakes and how you can avoid them.
What most students do: They only study from coaching notes or random YouTube channels. They think ICAI books are boring or too long.
Why that’s a problem: ICAI often takes direct questions from its own material. If you skip it, you're missing the main content.
What you can do: Use the ICAI books as your main source. Coaching notes are helpful, but don’t depend only on them. Solve the examples and questions given in the ICAI books.
What most students do: They just read and think, "Okay, I understood this."
Why that’s a problem: Understanding is one thing. Writing it in exam pressure is another. Also, you might not realise where you’re going wrong unless you write.
What you can do: Practice writing answers – especially for Law and Accounts. Solve questions from past papers. Make writing a habit.
What most students do: They don’t give enough time to practice MCQs or Revision Test Papers (RTPs).
Why that’s a problem: These have a big weightage in marks, especially in subjects like Business Economics.
What you can do: Solve at least 50 MCQs for every topic. Go through RTPs published by ICAI. Many questions repeat in the main exam.
What most students do: They take classes from different teachers for the same subject, or watch 100 YouTube videos.
Why that’s a problem: Too many sources = too much confusion. Also, you won’t have time left for self-study.
What you can do: Choose one teacher or one set of notes. Focus on understanding. And then revise it yourself.
What most students do: They leave topics for the end or plan to "do revision later".
Why that’s a problem: Last-minute panic = stress, silly mistakes, and poor performance.
What you can do: Try to finish your syllabus at least 1 month before the exam. Use that last month only for revision, mocks, and practice.
What most students do: They write in a hurry, no headings, no proper format. Everything looks like one big paragraph.
Why that’s a problem: Even if your answer is right, bad presentation can lead to fewer marks.
What you can do: Write clearly. Use points. Underline important words. Make your paper easy to read.
What most students do: They spend too much time on the subject they love and avoid the one they hate.
Why that’s a problem: You need to pass all subjects. One bad paper can mess up your result.
What you can do: Give extra time to the subjects you’re weak at. Don’t postpone them. Face them early and practice more.
What most students do: Some think, "I’ll easily pass." Others feel, "No matter what, I’ll fail."
Why that’s a problem: Both mindsets are harmful. Overconfidence = careless prep. Underconfidence = panic.
What you can do: Stay balanced. Trust your hard work. Give your best. Believe you can do this – but only with smart, honest effort.
Final Thoughts
Passing CA Foundation isn’t about being a genius. It’s about being smart, consistent, and focused.
Avoid these common mistakes and you’ll already be ahead of many others.
And hey, you don’t have to do this alone. If you need help, guidance, or a proper study plan – we’re here for you.
Ready to take your CA prep seriously? Join [Achievers Academy] today – and let’s crack CA Foundation together!
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