(1) Ethics, Professional Responsibilities and Federal Tax Procedures.

Business Law.

(2) Federal Taxation of Property Transactions.
(3) Federal Taxation of Individuals.
(4) Federal Taxation of Entities.
(5) Business Law.

Like all CPA exam sections, a strategy should be in place when attacking regulation. Remember that although REG is a tax heavy exam, the conceptual components (e.g. ethics & business law) should not be disregarded. Often students find themselves disappointed with their 71% come score release day, and the first question I ask them is “how much did you study for business law?”

Studying for business law is an annoying task because although this section is not weighted very heavily compared to other sections (approximately 10-20% according to the AICPA), there is still a large volume of information that needs to be absorbed.

Yes, corporate and entity taxation is considered the “meat and potatoes” of this exam, but if you’re sitting in the 70-80% range, 10-12 points can go a long, long way. My plan of attack when studying for regulation is as follows:

(1) Individual Taxation – Go heavy on the mnemonics and create your own. Make sure to know the differences between adjustments and miscellaneous itemized deductions. In addition, make sure to know which individual credits are refundable and which are non-refundable.
(2) Entity and Corporate Taxation – Make sure to know the key differences between C-Corps, S-Corps and Partnerships. How to calculate basis, what are the differences between distributions and liquidations, and what are their respective taxable income items and deductions.
(3) Business Law – Read and do as many practice questions as possible.

Universal CPA Review offers 4,200 additional multiple-choice questions and 200+ practice simulations to supplement your study for just $99.

1. Read the newspaper daily

Newspaper editorials provide you with not only the updates on current affairs, but also an insight on writing style and flow. It is easy to observe how each writer has explained the happenings of the world in 250-300 words. You can also observe the correct application of Grammar rules. Slowly, and steadily, you’ll become so proficient, that you may be able to weed out mistakes in the newspaper itself, if any.

2. Practice speaking in English

Though spoken and written English are different in significant ways, it is always a confident boost to be able to fluently speak in a language that is not your mother tongue. Speaking in English will create nerve tracks in your brain, that will enable you to be more understanding of the language. Conscious efforts in this direction will force your brain to express thoughts in English, thereby improving your vocabulary, too.

3. Carry your flash cards everywhere.

Nowadays, due to digitization, we find mobile apps for everything. Similarly, there are apps for flash cards, too. If you’re more comfortable with the paper cards, then discretely sneak them to your cousin’s wedding, or else pretend to be clicking really great pictures while learning up as many words as humanly possible.

Pro Tip: ALWAYS learn the application as well. It helps to remember the word better than anything else. It is also beneficial to associate the words with things that you see in daily life.

4. Grammar isn’t just for convent school girls.

In school when we were forced to speak in English, it hadn’t been because the teachers hated us. It was so that we could grasp the language. Grammar rules if studied on their own, will definitely bore a person out. But when you study with a partner, or even if alone, you study the rules through a YouTube video, it gets easier. Always remember that knowing Grammar rules will fetch you ‘lazy’ marks i.e. the marks assigned to match the columns, complete the sentences, mark the wrong part of sentence, etc. Reading Comprehension also becomes much easier as you do not have to spend too much time on understanding a sentence.

5. Being patient.

Learning a new language is difficult. But relearning a language that you’ve spoken almost all your life is really tricky. You will be exasperated as the words will seem the same, or you’ll keep messing up the rules. But, keep going. Keep practicing. Because once you get the hang of this section, it’ll be a great time saver as well as the easiest way to score.

Rest assured, whatever you do, do not ignore this section as the 4/5 ‘lazy’ marks could be the ones that make all the difference in your score. English is sometimes confusing, and remembering the exception to the rules can sometimes muddle your head. But, it’s always a question of how badly do you want to achieve your dream. Keep believing. Keep working. All the best!

Connect with your Study Partner at www.StudyPal.co to help you ace your test prep

Contrary to the multi-tasking lifestyle that we lead, studying demands focusing on one thing at a time. Constant devotion of time and attention to a singularly tracked study material, often gets difficult due to the existence of distracting electronics and the restlessness induced due to overuse of social media. Social media constantly distracts us by being so current and finicky. Though, the biggest boon of social media is the sheer accessibility of opportunities to succeed, to meet new people, and to stay updated, it is of utmost importance that we first learn to prioritize our time.

So, in order to help you stay focused and get the most out of your devoted study time, here are 5 fool-proof hacks:

1. Meditate your way to A+B=C

Not only is meditation a way to guarantee superhuman concentration levels, but it also calms the nervous system. It stimulates the brain to achieve better cognitive and intellectual performance. Studies have shown that meditation is responsible for changes in brain functions, increasing students’ practical intelligence and creative thinking. It is the sure shot way to sharpening your memory as well as keeping away restlessness and insomnia, which are very common symptoms of stress.

2. Eat to nourish your brain

We have been told that since walnuts look like miniature brains, they are good for the brains. Well, turns out, they really are excellent for maintaining optimum brain health. Foods containing essential fatty acids like Omega-3, copper, polyphenols are excellent for increased brain power. Wondering which foods contain these wonder components, look no further, here’s a list:

• Vegan Options – Nuts (walnuts, almonds), turmeric, blueberries, broccoli, avocado, spinach, pumpkin seeds, olive oil, coconut oil.
• Non-vegan Options – Salmon, eggs, dark chocolate.

3. Study with a partner

Studies show that humans function better in a group, or with a partner, in general. Due to our social nature, we tend to look for safety and a sense of team to be performing at our optimum level. More than that, studying with a partner ensures that we complete what we aimed to do. It encourages us to focus better, and in case we are stuck at a particular problem, our study partner can always help out. It is in fact, one of the most fruitful ways to ensure successful study sessions.

4. Exercise for a sharper memory

Exercise guarantees a healthy body, and an even healthier brain. It stimulates the production of endorphins (a chemical naturally released in the brain to reduce pain, that in large amounts can make you feel relaxed or full of energy). Endorphins lower cortisol levels (a hormone produced as response to stress), and increases energy levels. Studying gets easier as you feel motivated, confident, and happier.

5. Organization is key

Organize your study space, your time table, your exam day, and your life in general. The more ordered your timeline is, the easier it is to escape chaos and focus. The time tables that you set, should be a doable allocation of study material to the time in question. A clutter-free desk results in a clutter-free mind. You can easily find your required materials, and start studying without having to waste time searching for everything in a mess.

6. Originality is inspirational

Study in the way you find comfortable. You shouldn’t be bothered if it takes you a little while longer than your friend to study a particular topic. Set your own time table, and device your own study techniques like writing down pointers, making flashcards, or just plain highlighting the text. It is always best to trust your own gut when it comes to planning for your future.

Now, that you have a few pointers as guidelines, don’t just stick to them. Be innovative, and find ways to add your own twist to these hacks. It is after all your study sessions. And the most important of all is to always believe in yourself and the dream you want to achieve. All the best!

Eating Your Way to The Top: 4 Recipes that can cook up a storm

Studying for a test is an uphill task in itself and nobody knows those random hunger paws sabotaging the entire plan for extensive studying better than us. To help you grab something more than the decaf coffee you slowly sip upon to keep your eyes open and at least eat something more than the baseless midnight bowl of bland instant noodles, Studypal.co has brought to you 4 great delicious recipes that will keep you full between those gruesome study hours with almost zero efforts from your end.

The Legendary Chickpea Roast

Basically, this comes as a healthy alternative to the baseless chips snacking we all do once in a while, and of course, these are healthier. It is the perfect snack to fill your tummy as you turn through the books.

Basically, this comes as a healthy alternative to the baseless chips snacking we all do once in a while, and of course, these are healthier. It is the perfect snack to fill your tummy as you turn through the books.

Here is a step by step guide on how to go about it:

Ingredients- 1 cup chickpeas, 1 lemon, Olive oil for seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, more or less to taste, 1/2 Tablespoon chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/4 cup finely chopped onion

Process-

1. First, we need to preheat the oven to 350F and line a baking tray with foil
2. Then we need to rinse the chickpeas in a utensil and let them dry well
3. In a bowl, we now combine chickpeas, salt spices and season it with olive oil and then toss the chickpeas around to coat them properly.
   4. Now we need to spread the chickpeas onto baking sheet in a layer and bake it for about forty minutes until the peas are nicely crispy and cooked.
4. The Roasted chickpeas can now be served with chopped onions and a squeeze of lemon for the taste. It’s always better than potato chips you know!

The Oatmeal with the Fruity Twist

There is nothing like a big warm bowl of food when you are hungry and given that you need to stay up and fight through the endless pages of your test prep material, oats is definitely a great option. Here’s a recipe to bring a twist to the traditional boring oat and milk staple. There is no reason to be boring, you know.

There is nothing like a big warm bowl of food when you are hungry and given that you need to stay up and fight through the endless pages of your test prep material, oats is definitely a great option. Here’s a recipe to bring a twist to the traditional boring oat and milk staple. There is no reason to be boring, you know.

Ingredients -2 cups fat-free milk, 1 cup quick-cooking oats, 1 large ripe banana (sliced), 6                          Strawberries (Sliced), Raspberry syrup, Honey,1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon powder, Diced fresh fruits of your choice (avoid citrus), Sugar (as needed)

Process-

1. In a small saucepan, we need to bring the milk to a boil; and slowly, stir in the oats and let it cook over medium heat until thickened, stirring occasionally.
2. Now, we need to stir in the banana and strawberry and follow it by the sugar, cinnamon powder and honey.
3. To serve, we need to garnish it with the remaining fresh fruits and the raspberry syrup as required.                                                                                                                        Homemade Cheese Popcorn
   

   Okay, so you want to gorge on something that’s delicious, but without the guilt of eating greasy junk food. It is surprising how easy it is to make your favorite Cheese Popcorn in just a few easy steps.

Okay, so you want to gorge on something that’s delicious, but without the guilt of eating greasy junk food. It is surprising how easy it is to make your favorite Cheese Popcorn in just a few easy steps.

 Ingredients: 1 cup Popcorn Kernels, 2 Tablespoon Butter, Salt to taste, 3 Tablespoon Cheddar Cheese Powder, 1/2 teaspoon Pepper

Process-

1. For the first step, we need to seal a cup of Popcorn in a brown paper bag and Microwave till kernels stop popping at the rate of at least one pop per second.
2. Then we need to slowly pour molten butter into the bag and then shake it REALLY well till it mixes up
3. In a bowl, we need to mix the Cheddar cheese powder, Black pepper Powder and salt and mix it with the popcorn in the bag, shaking it well.                                                                                                                                        The Kale Chips
   

   These crispy sinful kale “chips” are practically fat free — the perfect answer for guilt-free snacking options. If you are one of those who like to keep munching something or the other as you rack your brains, this is absolutely going to be your favorite.

These crispy sinful kale “chips” are practically fat free — the perfect answer for guilt-free snacking options. If you are one of those who like to keep munching something or the other as you rack your brains, this is absolutely going to be your favorite.

Ingredients- 1 bunch kale, nonstick cooking spray, ½ tsp salt

Recipe-

1. For the first step, we need to preheat the microwave oven to 350 degrees F.
2. Now for the Kale, we need to tear leaves into large pieces and remove and discard thick stems to speed up the cooking process.
3. In a microwave tray, the leaves should be spread in a single layer, lined by a foil.
4. After spraying the leaves with nonstick cooking spray followed by a sprinkle of salt to taste, we need to bake it for twelve to fifteen minutes, till the chips are crisp.

So, got your taste buds running already? Well, we don’t blame you! So cook up a storm for yourself with these easy recipes the next time you feel ravenous in between the study hours. We at Studypal.co aim at making your test prep experience a better one with pioneering tips and advice from the experts in the industry.

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]]> https://www.studypal.co/blog/eating-your-way-to-the-top-4-recipes-that-can-cook-up-a-storm/feed/ 0 https://www.studypal.co/blog/5-study-spots-in-austin-to-look-out-for/ https://www.studypal.co/blog/5-study-spots-in-austin-to-look-out-for/#comments Thu, 18 Feb 2016 20:42:36 +0000 http://www.studypal.co/blog/?p=634 Studying doesn’t always need to be boring. With a lot of study prep to be done for those hugely competitive tests, it is always advisable to find yourself a change of location, all for your good. Caffeine addict or an outdoor person; we have something for you on our list of study spots for Austin. So grab your books and walk out to explore the 5 absolutely fantastic study spots in Austin which will help you to ace those test scores:

Houndstooth

Delicious coffee, lovely music and tons of natural light set just the right mood for studying. The interiors are modern and chic and there is an option for easing yourself on the couches while you study. This place also has some of those executive meeting tables; apt for people who like to study in groups of two or three. Houndstooth is the ultimate answer to the students on a budget looking for some place quiet to study.

Location: 4200 North Lamar Boulevard

Carver Branch Library

Austin Public Library’s first branch to cater to the black community; this place has a history that dates back to1933. A non-university library; it has a museum attached to add to its charms. East Side Pies, an eatery without delectable items on the menu, stands as a rescue to the hungry souls just across the street. The lovely little place also has reasonably large meeting rooms; making it apt for the group study sessions with your study pals.

Location: 1161 Angelina St

Barton Springs Pool

Sometimes, all of us crave to grab our books and lay down in the warm sun, lazing around. For all those outdoor loving romantics at hearts, this is the place to be. Apt for extra-long study sessions which require a great deal of reading; the pool is an inviting option for a swim break between those long study hours. Food isn’t allowed inside; but you can always grab a snack outside.

Location: 2201 Barton Springs Rd

Thunderbird Coffee

For those looking for a social setting for light studying and finding interesting things and people to observe, Thunder Bird is the place to be. They offer both beer and coffee; and both are taken care of with expertise. So, this place is one of those real catches where you can have agreat beer to calm your nerves to sip over the delicious coffee to rack your brains as you prep for your upcoming tests.

Location: two locations –
2200 Manor Rd
1401 Koenig Ln

Once Over Coffee Bar

Its location; cleverly hidden away behind those numerous sprawling oaks, gives you the feeling of being tucked away in a little garden with a coffee bar. The shaded outdoor patio overlooks the Bouldin Creek; making this spot an absolute visual bliss. You can bring along your food too; given you buy the coffee here which is by every means, pretty good. This is an absolute winner for a study spot to get lost in.

Location: 2009 S 1st St

The above list is not comprehensive, and there is always scope for finding someplace new to study in your city. For the explorers at heart, the possibilities are immense. So, get up from that boring study table stuck in the dead end of your room and go out to get some inspiration. Studying is not only about mugging stuff but learning in the process. A new location, some fresh air and new people can do a lot good to you in the long run. So, what are you waiting for?

 Need  a study buddy? Signup at www.studypal.co today!