Accounting & Information Systems
2015
Secrets to Surviving Accounting at TCNJ Guide
The following are suggestions/tips for studying, how to be successful in accounting classes and
how to practice effective study habits.
“Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.” Seneca (Roman philosopher born
in 5 B.C.)
I. Prepare for Class
Accounting is different from other courses you may be taking or may have taken in the past. It is
not enough to show up for class without preparing nor is it enough to simply read or skim the
materials, do a few problems and expect to do well in an accounting course.
1. Read the textbook before class
Read the assigned chapter or materials before class and make sure you understand the
accounting concept and the reasoning behind the concept (i.e., why do they record that, why is it
calculated that way). Read the chapter closely (do not skim) because each sentence likely
includes a key nugget of information. It is not uncommon to read a paragraph or section a
number of times before you comprehend its meaning.
Keep in mind that accounting is cumulative—that is, one topic builds on the other. You
must understand the earlier chapters to effectively understand the later chapters. If you are
confused about one chapter, it will likely affect your performance on a later chapter.
2. Accounting problems
Practice, practice, and more practice! After you understand the accounting concept or
theory, you must apply the concept by working through problems. First, work through the
example problems in the chapter so you can see how the accounting concepts are applied. Do
not simply look at the answers but actually work out the problems on your own.
Second, work through the assigned homework problems. Read the homework problems
carefully and make sure you answer the question the problem is asking. It is important to
legitimately attempt or complete the homework problems before class so you can have a better
understanding of the substantive content while the solutions are reviewed in class. Be careful to
identify the issue(s) or nuances in the problem and do not get distracted by irrelevant information
(“red herrings”). Check your answer against the solution reviewed in class and make sure you
understand why the answer is what it is and how the instructor arrived at the answer. If you have
a question or are confused by a part of the problem, make sure to ask your question during class
or clarify the problem with your instructor.
II. Class Lectures
Be prepared for class (see I. Prepare for Class; read and work through homework
problems before class) and pay attention during class. The instructor covers key material during
class so it is in your best interest to concentrate and disengage from distractions such as smart
phones, texting, etc. Class attendance reinforces the material and can result in a deeper
understanding, better recall and retention during the exam.
Be proactive in class. Classes are even more interesting if you participate and become
involved. Ask questions you may have about the material and respond to questions that further
the discussion. Although no question is a dumb question, be as specific as possible so your
instructor can understand the source of your confusion. Ask for help from your instructor before
you feel overwhelmed by the course material. Lastly, listen carefully and take good notes
during class (include the concepts and examples in your notes). Taking notes helps you to retain
the material and also refreshes your memory as you review the material again.
III. Time Management
Manage your time accordingly so you do not fall behind in your classes. The
material in accounting courses cannot successfully be crammed the night before an exam (i.e.,
theory, practice and application go hand-in-hand). Keep on top of all projects and assignments
assigned in class. Begin working on the assignments as soon as possible. Working on the
assignment in advance a little at a time is more effective (and less stressful!) than doing all of the
work near the due date. Procrastinating and playing catch-up in your accounting courses is a
slippery slope (remember, a new topic or chapter builds on the prior lessons).
Review the material on your own, i.e., look over class notes and prior material and work
through problems again (particularly those you found confusing or challenging). Reviewing
throughout the semester is more effective than cramming for an exam.
IV. Studying for Exams
Study smartly (i.e., efficiently as possible) when you are preparing for an accounting
exam and focus on the scope of the course. Make sure you understand, in particular, the material
covered during class (including examples and problems) and the homework problems assigned.
Work through the problems again on your own without looking back at the chapter to ensure that
you thoroughly understand the material. Use the resources available through your textbook and
online learning tool to review for the exam (e.g., practice quizzes). Again, success in an
accounting course requires an understanding of the material and your ability to apply the
concepts effectively.
Study groups may be helpful during your review process, but make sure to remain
focused and not distracted by unrelated topics. Studying in a group can improve your accounting
knowledge (e.g., exchange of information) and communication skills (e.g., explaining the subject
matter).
Exams test your critical thinking skills not your ability to memorize rote answers.
Accounting concepts are not always clear-cut and have many exceptions to the general rule, and
so your answer may depend heavily on the problem’s facts. You should be able to logically
reason and apply the accounting concepts in an exam setting. During the exam, pace yourself,
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read the question carefully and make sure to answer the question the problem is asking. Points
are easily lost because of carelessness. If there is time at the end, go back to the questions you
were uncertain of.
V. Great learning tips from Make it Stick: The Science of Successful Learning
Check the link below on tips for increasing the depth, durability and flexibility of
learning:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=88X4zqkRWFs
Additional Resources
The Center for Student Success provides Academic Success Workshops during the semester (see
https://css.tcnj.edu/extensive-academic-enhancement-workshops/). The following is a list of
recent Workshop Series:
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Time Management
Effective and Efficient Reading
Note Taking
Review/Recharge to Finish Semester Strong
Preparing for Finals
Test Taking
Good Luck!
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