The Writing Portion of the CPA ExamETWR 2377 Business & Technical Communications (Summer 2012)

Wiley’s Tips2010-2011 37th Edition, Vol. 1

What’s New?

Multiple Choice – same as before, brief scenario, one answer 75% of the exam

Simulations – new! 20% of exam Real world situations Communications requirement 10%

How are Simulations Graded? Majority, short answers, computer

graded. Essays graded on writing skills:

Organization. Development. Conciseness. Clarity. Use of Standard English. Audience Appropriate.

How to Answer Simulations

Wiley’s recommends the Solutions Approach.

Five Steps: Scan the question – overall

topic/concept. What’s being asked? Organize answer per topic/concept in

question.

(How to Answer Simulations continued)

Respond to each tab one point at-a-time.

Feel free to respond to questions out-of-order.

Use split screen to refer back to scenario while answering question.

Use scratch paper, spreadsheet, and calculator.

Writing Skills Graded:

Technical accuracy not graded.

CAVEAT: Answers must be “on point” in order to be graded in the first place!

Be sure you’re answering the question asked, rather than going on a tangent.

(Writing Skills continued)

Logical formation of ideas – outline. Organize response in logical manner:

Short paragraphs. Ident. Topic sentence. Finish discussing old information before

moving on to new information. Parallel structure/sentences.

(Writing Skills continued)

Uniformity among noun, verb tense, and number.

Use pronouns or synonyms. Use transitions (i.e. therefore,

moreover, etc.). Conciseness – short, sweet & to

the point. Active voice vs. passive voice.

(Writing Skills continued)

Clarity No abbreviations. Agreement b/w nouns, pronouns,

verbs, & number. Give examples.

(Writing Skills continued)

Use Standard English Be aware of spelling, punctuation, &

usage It’s vs. Its There vs Their vs They’re

Audience Appropriate Professionals – ok to use jargon, etc. Non-professionals – avoid jargon, etc.

Finally…

Plan Organize Write Proofread Edit

Let’s get started!