To pass the ACCA LW exam, start by booking your exam early and creating a study plan. Practice in the real CBE environment under timed conditions. Read every question carefully, especially negatively worded ones, and learn to avoid distractors. Cover the entire syllabus, track your progress, and set output-based goals for study sessions. Take regular breaks and focus on weak areas in the final weeks.
Before you start studying, it is important to book your exam date. Doing this early gives you a clear target to work toward and helps you plan your time effectively. Be careful to choose the correct variant of the exam, since ACCA offers different versions depending on region. Finally, make sure you understand the structure of the exam. Section A includes multiple-choice questions, and Section B involves scenario-based questions. Knowing the format will help you tailor your practice sessions.
The first rule is to read carefully. Many questions are negatively worded, such as “Which of the following is NOT correct?” Missing the word “not” can change the whole meaning of the question.
Distractors are another challenge. These are wrong answers that look tempting. To avoid them:
If you are still unsure, flag the question and return to it later. If time is short, make an educated guess. Leaving a blank is always worse than guessing.
Once your exam is booked, use a diary or digital planner to map out your study sessions. Decide in advance what you will do each day. You do not need to study every single day, but consistency is important. Allow yourself rest days, but when you set a study session, stick to it. This discipline ensures steady progress and prevents last-minute cramming.
Practicing under real exam conditions is the best preparation. Use ACCA’s software and platforms like Practice Test Academy to get used to the computer-based exam (CBE). Always time yourself. Spending too long on one question during practice does not prepare you for the real exam.
Learning actively through question practice is more effective than passively reading notes. When you attempt a question, your brain is forced to recall and apply knowledge. If you struggle, then check your notes. This method keeps you engaged and helps you remember better.
It can be tempting to focus only on the topics you enjoy, but every area of the syllabus is examinable. Success comes from balance. Prioritize your weaker topics first, so you can strengthen them before the exam. Use past papers and question banks to find your weak spots. Work backwards: start with a question, and then review the study material related to it. This way, your learning is active and targeted.
Tracking progress keeps you honest. Keep a record of which questions you answered correctly and which ones you struggled with. Do not write answers in your question bank, so you can attempt them again later. After some time has passed, revisit the same questions to check whether you can now solve them. This method shows your growth and highlights areas needing more work.
Time-based goals, like “study law for two hours,” can lead to wasted time. Instead, set output-based goals. For example: “Complete and review questions 50 to 80.” This makes your study session focused and productive. When you finish the set task, you know you have achieved something concrete. Output-based study also ensures that you will cover the syllabus before exam day.
Studying for long periods without breaks reduces concentration. Aim to look away from your screen every 10–15 minutes to rest your eyes. Every 45–60 minutes, take a proper 10-minute break. Walk around, stretch, or get a drink. These small breaks refresh your mind and keep your energy levels high. A well-rested brain learns more effectively.
In the last few weeks, shift your attention to your weaker areas. Keep practicing under timed conditions to build speed and confidence. Take full mock exams to simulate the real test. This helps reduce exam-day stress because the format feels familiar. Consistency matters most during this period. Keep a steady rhythm, review your notes, and trust the preparation you have done.
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