I'm currently (self) studying for the AAT Cert in Bookkeeping. Following advice on this forum, I've purchased my study material from Osborne Books and am finding them to be very clear and concise. So far so good! Would you please let me know if, by studying Osborne Bookkeeping 1 and Bookkeeping 2 Tutorials and Workbooks and then completing the practice tests on the Osborne and AAT websites, I will be fully equipped to sit (and pass) the exam? I understand I will need a training provider for the next step, ie. Computerised Accounting, but I would appreciate some reassurance that I'm on track so far.
Thank you
Sharon
-- Edited by FullCircle on Thursday 22nd of January 2015 03:52:26 PM
I found the Osborne books very good study material -I did my AAT through college but used the books for revision as well as the website exams , the green light questions are also very good
Hi Lottes
I've found that with any kind of study you need to be self disciplined but more so with self study. I would prefer this option as due to work commitments I can't always pitch up to the classroom environment so it gives you the flexibility with work and life in general. Doesn't suit everyone though.....my son prefers working alongside other people and finds it very hard to focus at home.
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Joanne
Winner of Bookkeeper of the Year 2015, 2016 & 2017
Thoughts are my own/not to be regarded as official advice,which should be sought from a suitably qualified Accountant.
You should check out answers with reference to the legal position
Personally I prefer self study using Open Tuition, Kaplan study texts (as they use the learn, try, do again with more complexity approach) and old exam papers.
I think that the main advantage to group study is an imposed study timetable where if you are self disciplined you can impose that rigid learning structure on yourself.
I tend to use an Excel spreadsheet with a six month study plan on it which goes down to what chapters of a book I need to be read by when, what past exam paper needs to be attempted when. Even down to which deck of revision cards I take with me on the school run.
I miss exams season... right, what other qualification has three hour exams once every six months...
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Shaun
Responses are not meant as a substitute for professional advice. Answers are intended as outline only the advice of a qualified professional with access to all relevant information should be sought before acting on any response given.
Hi Sharon
I self studied for Levels 2 and 3 for AAT and am now making a start on Level 4. I used the Osborne text books in conjunction with the past papers and test material on the AAT website and found that I had covered enough to pass all of the exams first time. For the modules requiring external marking - Computerised Accounting and Spreadsheets - I purchased a course in the individual subjects from Kaplan.
It all worked out fine for me though I must admit I'm now struggling to find the time to sit down and get on with Level 4 after a year's break!
Clare
Thank you for your replies, in particular Clare, it helps to know I'm on track and won't get any nasty surprises when I face the exam! In answer to your question Lottes, I'm enjoying the flexibility of self study and working at my own pace. I don't move on to the next chapter until I feel I'm full bottle on the last one. My main challenge is retaining everything! I've created loads of acronyms which help me to remember certain rules. The one I use most often is MIDMOC (I think you can all guess what it stands for) - it works for me! TTFN, Sharon
-- Edited by FullCircle on Thursday 19th of February 2015 03:32:30 PM