Preparing for CIMA case study exams can be challenging, and mock exams play a vital role in this process. However, many students often encounter common pitfalls that can affect their performance.
In this blog, our marker, Rebecca, shares their observations on the most frequent mistakes students make during their mock exam attempts. From misunderstanding questions to struggling with time management, we will examine these issues in detail. More importantly, we will offer practical tips and strategies to help you overcome these challenges and enhance your exam technique.
1. Time management woes
Time management is a biggie. In this case, the CIMA exam software moves you on when your time on that task is up. This makes getting stuck on the first sub-task a fatal mistake! My advice? Practise with a timer and plan your attack. Ensure you are strict with yourself and give each sub-task the attention it deserves!
2. Make it relevant
The CIMA exam case study is ALL about the application to the scenario. The case study exam is there for a reason! I tell my students to apply the “Tesco Test”. If I could read your answer, replace the business name with “Tesco” and it still makes sense… it isn’t applied enough. Every point you make should be backed up with an example that is unique to your case study exam. Practise this skill by explaining concepts to your friends and colleagues, giving only examples from the industry your case study is set within.
3. Structuring your answers
A well-structured answer is like a well-organised closet – everything is in its place and easy to find. Use headings, sub-headings and short paragraphs to make your exam answers clear and logical. Trust me, it makes it much easier for your examiner to give you those hard-earned marks.
4. Explain, explain, explain
Don’t assume I know what you’re thinking. Many students lose marks because they don’t fully explain their points. I know you know, but your examiner doesn’t play the guessing game. I tell my learners to go back to studying at school when their teacher would tell them to use “Point, Evidence, Explain”. You’ll be well rewarded if you hit these for every point you make.
5. Not answering all parts of the requirement
CIMA case study examiners love to ask you to do multiple things in one sub-task. Three or four requirements might be disguised in one little request! Spend a bit of that expensive exam time fully reading and breaking down the requirement, converting it into sub-headings in the answer area, and I promise it will pay back dividends when it comes to hitting the marks.
So, there you have some insider tips straight from the CIMA marking desk. Keep these in mind, practise hard, and you’ll be well on your way to exam success. Good luck and go get those marks!
Rebecca Altria
Educational Content & Assessment Lead
