A key mistake ACCA P2 students are making

Being able to do well in the exam does not only mean learning core syllabus topics but being able to apply this knowledge to the scenario within the question.

Students are expected to give specific details on the case within the question and comment using the relevant theory/knowledge to back up their points.

This is what examiners had to say about recent candidates’ performance in this area:

“This examination required candidates to display more than just a rote knowledge of accounting standards. Professional accountants are required to advise clients, and the Corporate Reporting examination tests the candidate’s ability to apply knowledge to a scenario: the ability to explain the correct accounting treatment, the principles that underpin the treatment, and the implications of this, in complex scenarios.” - ACCA P2 Examiner's Report - September 2015

“Professional accountants would be expected by their clients to provide advice which outlines both the correct accounting treatment and also the reasons for this treatment. Candidates who failed to display both knowledge and application limited their opportunities to gain marks.” - ACCA P2 Examiner's Report - September 2015

“There was some criticism of the nature of the questions and one observer called the questions theoretical and academic. This is not the case as most of the questions are based around real life scenarios, which means that candidates will need to apply their knowledge.” - ACCA P2 Examiner's Report -December 2014

“Many of the questions are based around real life scenarios, and the marks are allocated for knowledge of the standard and its applications to that scenario.” - ACCA P2 Examiner's Report - June 2014

Remember, it is absolutely vital that you demonstrate to the examiner that you have linked the scenario into your answer. Don't simply write down everything you know about the subject. It is far more important to refer only to the relevant theory and state specifically how it relates to the scenario.

The best way to get into the habit of doing this correctly is through practise. 

You should aim to complete at least 3 full past exam papers under examination conditions before your final exam in order to ensure you make these links effectively.

Access the ACCA F4 past exam papers by going to - ACCA P2 Past Exam Papers. 


This is just one of the points addressed in our ACCA Examiners' Guide. See what others issues had been identified by going to - ACCA P2 Examiners' Guides