[NoLifeATM]

Hello!

I have read many threads on the BEC written communications section of the exam from 2011-2013 (because I have been unable to find any recent ones) and they mostly recommended just knowing the proper format and staying on topic. Is this still the general consensus on how it’s graded these days? Or are the essays graded based on technical content and if you legitimately know everything that you’re talking about?

I have my exam in a few days, but have been spending the majority of my study time reviewing the materials and hammering multiple choice questions. Not really sure how much time to devote to the essays.

I appreciate any input!

Thanks,

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[monikernc]

this post has a good template

https://www.another71.com/cpa-exam-forum/topic/bec-wc-is-my-memo-good/

good luck! and ask for a handheld calculator. so much quicker and less stressful than online calculator for quick calcs.

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[NoLifeATM]

Thank you for that link! Helpful information for sure.

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It's over. It's done.

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[D]

To answer your question – no I don't believe they grade you on actual technical content.

Format, grammar, and structure is most important, followed by technical content and relevance. From my experience (taking BEC more times than I want to admit and always acing SIMS but sucking in MCQ)… focus on MCQs and those will actually help you address some of the topics they ask you about. If your business writing skills area already strong, then I would definitely just focus on MCQs, and make sure to save about 1 hour for SIMS (20 min each, enough to think about it, write it out, proofread/edit, etc.).

Some things I always made sure to do, and received as advice years ago:
1) Start your 1st paragraph by restating the purpose of your memo (i.e. addressing the problem) and why you're writing it. Maybe start with 1-2 sentences.
2) 2nd/3rd paragraphs(3-4 sentences max each) provide detail on your recommendations and/or what you are advising and why.
3) Finally, restate #1. (“I hope this helped to address your concerns around ________________________.) Then be sure to say something around the sorts of “feel free to contact me if any questions/concerns… Sincerely, Your Name, CPA.. etc.”

Good luck!

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AUD: 77  (Jan 2016)
BEC: 80  (May 2016)
REG: (rematch May 2017)
FAR: (rematch Apr 2017)
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AUD - 74, 77! (1/2016)
BEC - 80! (5/2016)
REG - tbd (8/2016)
FAR - tbd

Study materials: NINJA MCQ/Audio/Notes

"I can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens me!"
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[NoLifeATM]

Another really helpful response! Ahh thank you so much. I feel pretty confident in my MC. I'm averaging in the 80s on my progress tests (I'm using Becker), and I got a 75 on the first practice exam.

I'm just going to write out (and memorize) a good template for my written responses and keep reviewing the materials/working MCs till exam day.

AUD - 81
BEC - 85
FAR - 81
REG - 80

It's over. It's done.

FAR - 81 (5/16)
REG - 80 (716)
BEC - __ (8/16)
AUD - __ (10/16)

[D]

Great strategy – sounds like you're on track for a PASS! Keep it up 🙂

**************************
AUD: 77  (Jan 2016)
BEC: 80  (May 2016)
REG: (rematch May 2017)
FAR: (rematch Apr 2017)
**************************

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AUD - 74, 77! (1/2016)
BEC - 80! (5/2016)
REG - tbd (8/2016)
FAR - tbd

Study materials: NINJA MCQ/Audio/Notes

"I can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens me!"
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[Pokey]

Good luck on the exam – I take BEC 9/8 and haven't also looked too much in the WC until I feel comfortable with the content

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[Author]

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