How to Revise ICAI Modules Effectively Before Exams

As a CA student, you already know that the ICAI modules are your main study material. But the problem comes when exams are near. The modules are big, time is short, and you don’t know how to revise everything. If you are feeling lost, don’t worry. You are not alone. Almost every CA student faces this problem. In this article, you will learn simple and effective methods to revise ICAI modules before exams.

Why ICAI Modules Are Important

Before learning revision strategies, you should understand why ICAI modules are so important:

• Main source of exam questions – ICAI sets papers directly from the modules.
• Covers ICAI language – Many times, examiners expect answers in ICAI style.
• Most authentic material – Reference books are helpful, but ICAI modules are the base.

That’s why you cannot ignore the modules, especially during the last days before exams.

Step 1: Make a Realistic Revision Plan

When exams are close, you cannot revise every line. You need a smart plan. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Check the number of days left – Count how many days are there before your first paper.
2. Divide subjects properly – For example, if you have 30 days and 8 subjects (CA Inter), give 3 days per subject. Keep 6 days for final revision.
3. Prioritise difficult subjects – If costing is weak for you, keep more time for it. If law is easy, keep less time.
4. Set daily targets – Instead of thinking “I will study taxation,” decide “I will finish GST input tax credit chapter today.”

Remember: A practical timetable is better than an overambitious one.

Step 2: Use Short Notes and Summary

The ICAI modules are huge. Reading them word by word during revision is impossible. That’s why you must use short notes.

• Make your own notes during first reading – Write only keywords, formulas, and important provisions.
• Highlight ICAI examples – Many exam questions come directly from the module examples.
• Use summary notes – If you have purchased summary charts or handwritten notes from coaching, keep them handy.

Tip: If you don’t have notes, underline important points in the module and revise only those lines before exams.

Step 3: Follow the “3-Time Revision Rule”

CA toppers always say – revise at least 3 times before exams. But how is it possible? Let’s break it down:

1. First revision – Quick read of the whole module with focus on concepts. (Take 10–12 days).
2. Second revision – Practise questions and examples from the modules. (Take 12–14 days).
3. Third revision – Super-fast revision using short notes and marked areas. (Take 5–6 days).

If you follow this, you will remember maximum points on exam day.

Step 4: Practise Past Papers and RTPs with Modules

ICAI modules are not enough. To strengthen your revision:

• Solve past 3–4 years’ question papers.
• Read RTPs (Revision Test Papers) for the last 3 attempts.
• Do MTPs (Mock Test Papers) in exam-like conditions.

While solving these, always refer back to the ICAI module. This way, you will know which areas of the module are frequently tested.

Step 5: Focus on High-Weightage Chapters

Not all chapters carry equal marks. For smart revision:

• Check ICAI weightage – For example, in CA Inter Accounts, Accounting Standards carry high marks.
• Revise those first – Secure your easy marks by doing weightage-based chapters.
• Then move to medium and low weightage topics.

Example: In Audit, company audit and auditing standards are high-weightage. Never leave them.

Step 6: Active Recall Method

Simply reading the ICAI module will not help. You must test yourself.

• Close the book and try to recall provisions.
• Write short answers after reading a topic.
• Explain the concept to a friend – if you can explain, you know it.

Active recall improves memory better than passive reading.

Step 7: Time Management During Revision

During last days, time is your biggest enemy. Here’s how to manage:

• Avoid perfectionism – Don’t try to understand 100% of everything. Cover 80% with confidence.
• Use Pomodoro technique – Study 50 minutes, take 10 minutes break.
• Wake up early – Morning study is more effective than late-night stress.

Step 8: Handle Stress and Overthinking

Revision is not only about reading; it’s also about mental health.

• Don’t compare with friends – Everyone has different speed.
• Do light exercise or meditation daily to keep your mind fresh.
• Take small breaks after every 2–3 hours.

Remember: A calm mind remembers better.

Step 9: Last Day Before Exam

On the last day, you must be very smart.

• Revise only short notes and charts.
• Don’t start new topics – It will create panic.
• Sleep at least 6 hours before the exam.

If your mind is fresh, you will recall faster during exams.

Conclusion

Revising ICAI modules is tough, but not impossible. With proper planning, short notes, repeated revision, and focus on important areas, you can do it effectively. Don’t waste time in confusion. Just follow a simple plan and stick to it. Remember, ICAI wants conceptual clarity, not mugging up. If you revise smartly, you will definitely perform well in exams.

FAQs

Q1. How many times should I revise ICAI modules before exams?
At least 3 times – first for understanding, second for practising questions, and third for super-fast recall.

Q2. Should I read ICAI modules or coaching notes during revision?
Always give priority to ICAI modules. Use coaching notes only as a support for quick revision.

Q3. How do I revise fast if very little time is left?
Focus only on high-weightage chapters, short notes, and RTPs. Don’t waste time on less important areas.

Q4. Can I skip ICAI modules and do only summary notes?
No. Modules are the base. At least read important examples, provisions, and summaries from modules.

Q5. How do I stay motivated during revision?
Break your revision into small targets, reward yourself after achieving them, and avoid comparing with others.