Hidden Secrets to Write Answers in CA / CMA Exams?
How to Write to Score When cracking CA and CMA exams, students often focus solely on studying hard, revising concepts, and memorizing facts. But there's one skill that often gets overlooked—writing skills.
Yes, how you write in your exam can significantly impact how much you score.
In professional courses like CA and CMA, it's not enough to just know the answers, you have to present them well. The examiner isn’t a mind-reader; they judge your understanding based on how effectively you write and structure your answers on paper. Let’s dive deeper into why this matters and how you can learn how to write the CA / CMA exams.
1. Why Does Writing Style Matter in CA and CMA Exams?
1. Why Does Writing Style Matter in CA and CMA Exams?
CA and CMA exams are not just memory tests, they are skill-based assessments. These exams are not just what you know, but how well you can apply your knowledge under pressure, within strict time limits.
Here’s Why your Writing Skills make all the difference:
Examiners Can’t See Your Thoughts—Only Your Word: You may have all the concepts in your head, but if your writing is unstructured and unclear, the examiner may not understand your answers the way you intended.
Time Management and Precision : The way you write can either save or waste time. If you write long, vague paragraphs without getting to the point, you'll run out of time and leave questions incomplete. Effective writing helps you attempt all questions properly, improving your chances of scoring higher.
Professional Impression : CA and CMA papers are professional exams. A neat, logical, and structured answer sheet creates a good impression. It reflects not only your knowledge but also your professional mindset. Examiners are more inclined to award marks when answers are easy to read and well-organized.
2. Common Mistakes Students Make While Writing Answers
Writing in long paragraphs without headings or points
Mixing concepts without clarity or flow
Not quoting relevant sections or standards where applicable
Giving generic answers instead of to-the-point responses
Not highlighting key terms or keywords
Repeating the same point in different words
Poor handwriting or messy layout
These mistakes lead to unnecessary loss of marks, even when you know the gist of the answer.
3. How to Improve Your Exam Writing Style and Score More?
1. Use Pointwise Format
Avoid long paragraphs. Break your answer into clear bullet points or numbered steps.
Example:
Instead of: "The auditor is required to examine the financial statements carefully."
Write:
Responsibilities of an Auditor:
Examine the financial statements thoroughly
Ensure compliance with applicable laws
Report material misstatements, if any.
2. Start with a Heading or Introduction
Always begin your answer with a relevant heading or a one-line intro. It helps set the context for your answer.
Tip: If it’s a law question, mention the section number. If it’s costing, start with the formula or concept.
3. Use Keywords and Highlight Them
4. Quote Sections, Standards, or Formulas Wherever Applicable
This adds credibility to your answer. It shows you're not just writing from memory but understand the laws and logic behind your answers.
5. Support with Examples
Whenever possible, give short examples. This shows clarity of thought and helps the examiner understand your interpretation. Example:
When writing about "opportunity cost", mention a practical business situation briefly.
6. Write in a Professional Tone
Avoid flowery language. Be clear, concise, and professional. Get to the point quickly.
Example: Instead of writing “As per my understanding…”, write “As per Section 133 of the Companies Act…”
7. Practice Writing—Not Just Reading
8. Mock Tests Are Your Best Friend
Appearing for scheduled mock tests is the best way to simulate the exam environment. At SJC, we conduct multiple Part Mock Tests and Full Mock Tests, which are evaluated by expert faculty with remarks. This helps you identify your weak points in writing and improve them before the real exam.
In CA and CMA exams, knowledge alone doesn’t fetch marks—your writing skill does. This isn’t just about grammar or language; it’s about organizing your thoughts, presenting structured answers, and respecting the examiner’s time.
So don’t ignore this. Make answer-writing a part of your study routine. At SJC Institute, we focus not just on concept clarity but also on developing students’ writing skills through regular mock tests and faculty feedback, because we know that students who write well score well.