Five study tips from CISI exam candidates

Once you start heading into the revision phase, start trusting yourself that you know the subject, instead of being worried about not remembering the subject word-for-word. Try to relate topics and subjects with events that interest you. For example, if you like cricket, think of regulators as the umpires who are the decision makers, have powers to “out” a player and can impose penalties. The more you relate, the easier it is to remember.

Samrat Chitrao, Assistant Operations Manager – EMEA Transfer Agency, BNY Mellon International Operations (India) Private Limited, recently passed UK Financial Regulation (Investment Operations Certificate)

I found doing one practice question everyday really useful to keep the momentum of studying going, especially with a full time job. I also found the small pocket book ideal for revising on my commute, and certainly less bulky than the textbook.

Hayley Brown ACSI, Senior Client Relationship Manager, Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment, recently completed the Investment Operations Certificate

Read around the subject to make sure that you truly understand the processes and tools being described. A challenge is to find a way that works for you in memorising lists of data – I found mind mapping to be a helpful tool.

Martin Higgins ACSI, Senior Analyst, BNY Mellon, recently attained the new level four qualification, Managing Operational Risk in Financial Institutions

Take the time to read the textbook thoroughly, although it is hard to find time between work. The material covers a wide range of knowledge in the financial industry and will help in obtaining a holistic understanding.

Joice Tjen, Analyst – Agency Commercial, Royal Bank of Scotland, recently completed the Investment Operations Certificate

I would advise candidates to try to apply what they are learning to their current day-to-day roles at every available opportunity. The real value corporate finance advisers can add is not just possessing the technical knowledge but in being able to spot the situations in which this knowledge might apply and advising clients accordingly.

Steve Wagner, Corporate Strategy Manager, Lamprell PLC, recently completed the Diploma in Corporate Finance (Corporate Finance Strategy & Advice)

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