Struggling with ACCA AAA? How I Turned 3 Failures into Success

Background and Journey – Sneha Alfred

Introduction and Background:

Q) Can you tell us a little about yourself and your background?

I am originally from Bangalore, India. I completed my Bachelor’s in Commerce and interned at Goldman Sachs during my studies. After graduating, I completed my articleship at PwC. I then worked with PwC Bangalore and McAfee before relocating to London. At the time of my move, I was part-qualified in Chartered Accountancy.

Q) What initially motivated you to pursue the ACCA qualification?

Having already pursued my Chartered Accountancy (CA) qualification, the opportunity to move to London made it a natural progression to pursue ACCA. I heard about the excellent opportunities from some of my peers and took advantage of the exemptions available due to my CA exam qualifications.

Journey with Learnsignal:

Q) How did you discover Learnsignal, and what made you choose it for your ACCA preparation?

As I approached the final level of my ACCA journey, I faced challenges with the AAA and AFM exams. After some introspection, I realized the need for expert guidance. While exploring options on the ACCA website, I discovered Learnsignal, an approved tuition provider with Gold ALP status. I promptly noted the contact details and reached out to Vatsal, the Learnsignal contact for student queries, to inquire about the course details.

Q) How did Learnsignal support you throughout your ACCA journey?

Learn signal has been so supportive from the get-go. Vatsal (Student success manager) took time out to understand my ACCA journey, what were some of the concerns or challenges that I faced and my expectations out of the course. He immediately motivated me to not give up, having come so far and encouraged me to work through a more structured plan outlining how Learnsignal could help in that direction. 

Based on my initial assessment with Learnsignal and the prior AAA examination marks it was assessed that I needed to focus more on exam techniques. This helped me rethink my strategy and focus more on the practice questions, learnsignal mocks and debrief video. I used the platform to ask any queries I had and helped clarify my doubts real time. In addition, I opted for the one-to-one coaching with Murad, which helped me work my exam answering skills.

Exam Preparation and Strategies

Preparation Techniques:

Q) Can you share your study routine and how you managed your time effectively?

Balancing a full-time job and a recent transition into a new role made studying quite challenging. However, I made the most of my available time by starting my day early and studying after work. I set realistic weekly targets for the topics I wanted to cover and utilized weekends to practice exam questions and review the material I had studied during the week.

Q) What specific strategies did you use to prepare for the AAA exam?

I adopted a smart studying approach, focusing on areas that needed more attention. Practice was key, so I dedicated significant time to working on exam questions, mocks, and debrief videos to understand the examiner’s perspective. I concentrated on points that would earn me marks and regularly attempted questions to evaluate and improve my answering techniques.

Additionally, I created a study schedule that balanced my work commitments and study time effectively. I used active learning techniques, such as summarizing key concepts, regularly reviewing past papers and examiner reports helped me identify common pitfalls and areas for improvement.

Resource Utilization:

Q) Which resources or tools from Learnsignal did you find most helpful?

The most helpful resource for me personally was the one-on-one coaching. This personalized guidance significantly improved my exam technique. My interactions with my coach, Murad, were particularly beneficial. Our regular check-in sessions and his corrections of my mock exams helped me hone my exam techniques. Often, we believe our answers are sufficient to earn marks, but having an expert review them helps identify shortcomings and fine-tune our approach. 

Additionally, the debrief videos were invaluable. They provided insights into the examiner’s perspective and highlighted common mistakes to avoid. The practice questions and mock exams were also crucial, as they allowed me to apply what I had learned and assess my progress. The real-time query resolution feature on the platform was another great tool, enabling me to clarify doubts promptly and stay on track with my studies.

Q) How did you balance between theory and practical case studies in your preparation?

Having completed my articleship and gained work experience helped me understand concepts better. However, I received feedback that, although my technical knowledge was strong, I needed to improve my exam techniques. For those who haven’t worked yet, reading technical articles and completing the ethics module before the strategic level exams can be very beneficial, as the examples provided are quite practical.

To balance theory and practical case studies, I integrated real-world scenarios into my study routine. I regularly reviewed case studies and applied theoretical concepts to these practical examples. This approach helped bridge the gap between theory and practice. 

I also made use of Learnsignal’s resources, such as debrief videos and mock exams, to practice applying theoretical knowledge in exam-like conditions. This combination of theoretical study and practical application ensured a well-rounded preparation. Additionally, having the one-on-one coaching helped fill in the gaps in my exam technique skills, which was a key requirement in my case.

Challenges and Overcoming Them:

Q) What were some of the biggest challenges you faced while preparing for the AAA exam?

One of the biggest challenges I faced was failing the AAA exam three times, each time scoring 48 marks. This consistent result led me to doubt myself, but I knew I was very close to my goal and was determined not to give up.

To overcome this, I sought feedback to understand where I was going wrong and focused on improving those areas. I also adjusted my study techniques, incorporating more practice exams and focusing on exam techniques. The support from my coach, who provided regular feedback and guidance, was invaluable in helping me refine my approach.

Another challenge was balancing my studies with work commitments. I had to manage my time effectively, often studying early in the morning or late at night. Setting realistic goals and maintaining a structured study schedule helped me stay on track.

Additionally, staying motivated was crucial. I reminded myself of my long-term goals and the importance of achieving the ACCA qualification.

Q) How did you overcome these challenges and stay motivated?

My biggest support has been my family, especially my husband, who has always motivated me to never give up. He has been there every step of the way and has been my constant anchor.

This helped me maintain a positive outlook and a sense of progress. He always reminded me of the long-term benefits of achieving the ACCA qualification and how it aligned with my career aspirations and encouraged me to never give up especially given how far I had progressed in my ACCA journey.  

To stay motivated, I set small, achievable goals and celebrated each milestone. I practiced a lot of self-affirmations which reinforced my commitment to my goals.

Taking regular breaks and practicing self-care were essential to avoid burnout. I made sure to balance my study time with activities that helped me relax and recharge, such as exercise, hobbies, and spending quality time with loved ones.

Exam Experience

Exam Day Insights:

Q) Can you walk us through your experience on the day of the AAA exam?

It’s natural to feel nervous, but having worked through the techniques, I knew I was better prepared this time to answer any scenario-based questions or at least had the tools on how to approach them.

On the day of the exam, I made sure to start my day with a calm and positive mindset. I reviewed my notes briefly to refresh key concepts but avoided cramming to keep my mind clear. I arrived at the exam center early to settle in and get comfortable with the environment.

Q) How did you manage stress and stay focused during the exam?

Once the exam started, I focused on managing my time effectively. I carefully read each question to ensure I understood what was being asked and used the planning time to outline my answers. This helped me stay organized and ensured I addressed all parts of the questions.

I applied the exam techniques I had practiced, such as structuring my answers clearly and focusing on quality content and not quantity. Whenever I felt stuck, I took a deep breath and reminded myself of the strategies I had learned, which helped me stay calm and focused. During the breaks, I took a moment to relax and clear my mind, which helped me maintain my concentration throughout the exam. 

Leaving the exam center, I felt confident that I had done my best, thanks to the thorough preparation and support I had received. The combination of a positive mindset, effective time management, and the application of exam techniques made a significant difference in my performance.

Key to Success:

Q) What do you think was the key factor that contributed to your outstanding score of 95%?

The key factor that contributed to my outstanding score of 56% was my unwavering determination and strategic use of time. Knowing this was my last exam, I did everything possible to stay motivated. I made use of every available moment, waking up early to study and continuing my studies late into the night after work. Weekends were particularly valuable, as they provided extended periods for focused study sessions.

I also set clear, achievable goals for each study session, which helped me stay on track and measure my progress. Utilizing a variety of study resources, including practice exams, debrief videos, and one-on-one coaching, ensured I was well-prepared for any scenario-based questions. The personalized feedback from my coach was instrumental in refining my exam techniques and boosting my confidence.

Additionally, maintaining a positive mindset and staying organized played crucial roles. I kept a study schedule and regularly reviewed my progress, which helped me stay focused and motivated. 

Overall, the combination of effective time management, strategic use of resources, and continuous motivation were key factors in achieving my outstanding score.

Advice and Inspiration

Advice for Fellow Students:

Q) What advice would you give to other ACCA students, especially those preparing for the AAA exam?

Understanding the examination approach is crucial. A good starting point is to review specimen and practice exam questions available on the ACCA website. This will help you gauge where you stand and identify areas that need improvement.

Taking mock exams under timed conditions is essential. This practice will help you manage your time effectively during the actual exam and get accustomed to the exam format. Pay close attention to the feedback from these mocks to understand your strengths and weaknesses.

Focus on developing strong exam techniques. This includes structuring your answers clearly, addressing all parts of the question, and providing relevant examples. Understanding the examiner’s perspective through debrief videos and examiner reports can also provide valuable insights.

Make use of all available resources, such as study groups, one-on-one coaching, and online forums. Engaging with peers and mentors can provide different perspectives and support and do not hesitate to ask questions and seek clarification on topics you find challenging.

Lastly, maintain a positive mindset and stay motivated. Remember your long-term goals and the importance of achieving the ACCA qualification. Celebrate small milestones along the way to keep your spirits high.

Q) How important are consistency and discipline in achieving high scores in ACCA exams?

Consistency and discipline are crucial in achieving high scores in ACCA exams. Creating a study schedule that balances your work and personal commitments and sticking to it is essential. Regular, focused study sessions are far more effective than cramming at the last minute.

Consistency helps reinforce learning and ensures that you are continuously building on your knowledge. It allows you to identify and address any gaps in your understanding early on, rather than discovering them just before the exam. Regular revision and practice help solidify concepts and improve retention.

Discipline is equally important. It involves adhering to your study schedule, even when you might not feel like studying. It means prioritizing your studies and making the necessary sacrifices to ensure you are well-prepared. Discipline also includes maintaining a positive mindset and staying motivated throughout your preparation.

In addition to a structured study schedule, setting realistic goals and breaking down your study material into manageable chunks can help maintain consistency and discipline. Regularly reviewing your progress and adjusting your study plan as needed ensures you stay on track.

Engaging with study groups, mentors, and using available resources like mock exams, debrief videos, and one-on-one coaching can provide additional support and motivation. These tools can help you stay disciplined and consistent in your preparation.

Ultimately, consistency and discipline create a strong foundation for success in ACCA exams, enabling you to approach the exams with confidence and achieve high scores.

Motivation and Inspiration:

Q) Can you share any motivational tips for students who are struggling with their ACCA studies?

Setting small, achievable goals and celebrating each milestone can boost your morale. Engaging with a supportive community of peers and mentors can provide encouragement and different perspectives. Remember to maintain a positive mindset and remind yourself of the long-term benefits of achieving the ACCA qualification. 

Believing in yourself and bouncing back after each setback is crucial. It’s important to introspect on what might have gone wrong in a particular attempt. Sometimes, your marks may not reflect your efforts, but it’s essential to accept the results, move on, and plan ahead with strategies that work best for you. Incorporating good practices from others can be beneficial but avoid overwhelming yourself with too many strategies. 

Q) How did you stay motivated throughout your ACCA journey, and what kept you going during tough times?

Along with your studies, it’s important to build other habits such as exercise or finding ways to motivate yourself. Taking regular breaks can help you recharge and maintain focus. Breaking the monotony by watching motivational videos, practicing affirmations, and writing down things that inspire you can be very effective. Two of my favourite movies are “The Pursuit of Happiness” and “12th Fail which are true stories of determination, resilience, overcoming failure and most importantly never giving up on your dreams. 

Visualization techniques can also help you stay focused on your goals. I found it helpful to write down the number of exams I had cleared out of the 13 required for ACCA. This served as a constant reminder of how far I had come and motivated me to keep going. 

Remember to maintain a positive mindset and remind yourself of the long-term benefits of achieving the ACCA qualification.

Future Aspirations:

Q) What are your future career aspirations now that you are an ACCA affiliate?

As an ACCA affiliate, I am excited about the prospect of better job opportunities and advancing my career in the finance and accounting field. I aim to leverage my ACCA qualification to secure a role that allows me to apply my skills and knowledge in a dynamic and challenging environment.

I am particularly interested in roles that offer opportunities for growth and development, such as financial analysis, management accounting, and strategic planning. 

Q) How do you plan to leverage your ACCA qualification in your professional life?

In the long term, I hope to continue my professional development by pursuing further qualifications and certifications that complement my ACCA. I am also keen on staying updated with industry trends and best practices to ensure I remain competitive in the ever-evolving finance landscape. 

Additionally, I aspire to take on leadership positions where I can contribute to the success of the organization and mentor others in their professional journeys.

Personal Insights

Personal Growth:

Q) How has studying and passing the ACCA exams contributed to your personal and professional growth?

Studying and passing the ACCA exams has significantly contributed to both my personal and professional growth. Professionally, it has deepened my conceptual knowledge, allowing me to approach tasks at work with a fresh perspective. This enhanced understanding has improved my ability to analyze complex financial data, make informed decisions, and contribute more effectively to my organization’s success.

The rigorous preparation for the exams has also honed my problem-solving skills and attention to detail. It has given me the confidence to tackle challenging tasks and take on more responsibilities in my role. Additionally, being an ACCA affiliate has opened up better job opportunities and positioned me as a competitive candidate in the job market.

On a personal level, the journey of studying for the ACCA exams has taught me the importance of discipline, time management, and perseverance. Balancing work, studies, and personal commitments required a high level of dedication and resilience. This experience has made me more organized, focused, and determined to achieve my goals.

Moreover, the sense of accomplishment from passing the exams has boosted my self-confidence and motivated me to pursue further professional development. It has also provided me with a strong network of peers and mentors who have been supportive throughout my journey.

Q) What are some key skills or lessons you’ve learned from this journey?

Throughout my ACCA journey, I have learned several key skills and lessons that have been invaluable. Patience, perseverance, and belief in oneself are at the forefront. The rigorous preparation and challenging exams taught me the importance of staying patient and persistent, even when faced with setbacks. Believing in my abilities and maintaining a positive mindset were crucial in overcoming obstacles and achieving my goals.

Additionally, the ACCA qualification has been a transformative experience, shaping me into a more knowledgeable, skilled, and confident professional. It has enhanced my problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and analytical skills. I have also developed strong time management and organizational skills, which have been essential in balancing work, studies, and personal commitments.

Overall, the ACCA journey has not only equipped me with technical knowledge and professional skills but has also fostered personal growth and resilience.

Role Models and Influences:

Q) Did you have any role models or mentors who inspired you during your ACCA journey?

One of my key inspirations has been my husband. He has always demonstrated a never-give-up attitude, resilience, and a reminder that if you set your mind to something, you can achieve it. 

Additionally, I drew inspiration from true life stories of individuals who achieved success despite various challenges, whether financial, health crises, or other obstacles. Their determination to persevere in the face of adversity was a constant source of motivation for me.

Q) How did their guidance or example impact your success?

Their guidance taught me the importance of hard work, perseverance, and avoiding self-doubt. Observing my husband’s resilience and never-give-up attitude, especially as he faced setbacks in his own CA journey, was incredibly motivating. His persistence in overcoming personal challenges to achieve success showed me that determination and a positive mindset are crucial.

Additionally, drawing inspiration from true life stories of individuals who achieved success despite facing significant challenges, whether financial, health crises, or other obstacles, reinforced this belief. Understanding that people in far more challenging circumstances could achieve their goals made me believe that I could do it too. This perspective helped me stay focused and motivated, even when faced with difficulties, ultimately contributing to my success.