The 10-10-10 Rule: A Practical Way to Tackle the Last Month Before CA Intermediate Exams
If you’re a CA Intermediate student right now, there’s a high chance you’re feeling one (or more) of the following:
- “There’s too much left, I don’t know where to start.”
- “I studied everything, but nothing seems to stick.”
- “I can’t revise all subjects in one month!”
You’re not alone. Most students feel this pressure as the exam countdown begins. But here’s a mindset shift you need:
The last month isn’t about perfection. It’s about smart revision and confident execution.
That’s where the 10-10-10 Rule comes in — a practical, no-nonsense way to structure your last 30 days.
What is the 10-10-10 Rule?
It breaks your remaining 30 days into three focused phases:
- First 10 days: Complete your first revision of all subjects
- Next 10 days: Do a second revision, focusing on weak areas and practicing questions
- Final 10 days: Give mock tests and polish your exam temperament
This isn’t a magic formula. It won’t reduce the syllabus — but it will give your efforts direction, which is often more important than trying to do “everything.”
Phase 1: Days 1–10 – First Revision
Goal: Quickly revisit the entire syllabus and reactivate your memory.
This is not the time to go deep into concepts or learn anything new. You’re simply refreshing everything you’ve already studied.
✅ Use short notes, highlights, summary charts, and formula sheets.
✅ Spend more time on subjects you’re less confident in.
✅ Keep switching between practical and theory subjects to avoid boredom.
Example Routine:
- Morning: Accounts (3 hrs)
- Afternoon: Law (2 hrs)
- Evening: Costing (2 hrs)
- Night: Quick revision of theory/MCQs or solving a small question bank
Don’t get stuck on one chapter or subject — keep moving. If something feels too tough, note it down and revisit it in the second round.
Phase 2: Days 11–20 – Second Revision + Question Practice
Goal: Strengthen weak topics, practice important questions, and build confidence.
This round is more focused — now that your memory is refreshed, it’s time to dive deeper.
✅ Revisit the topics you found difficult in Phase 1
✅ Start solving RTPs, MTPs, and ICAI past paper questions
✅ For theory-heavy subjects (like Audit, Law), focus on presentation style and keywords
✅ For practical subjects, solve at least 2–3 full questions daily
If you haven’t given any mini-mock tests yet, start now. Even a 1-hour paper is useful.
Remember: You’re not revising to feel “perfect” — you’re revising to be exam-ready.
Phase 3: Days 21–30 – Mock Tests + Final Touch-Ups
Goal: Get into exam mode — build speed, accuracy, and confidence.
This is the most important phase. Your focus here is performance, not more reading.
✅ Attempt at least 3–4 full mock papers — ideally at the same time slot as your exam
✅ Simulate the exam environment: sit at a table, no phone, time yourself
✅ After each mock, spend time analyzing your mistakes
✅ Revise only from your summary notes — now is not the time to explore new material
Also:
- Fix your sleep schedule — align it with exam timings
- Take care of your physical and mental health
- Keep distractions (especially social media) under control
Why the 10-10-10 Rule Works
- It creates structure during chaos
- It avoids last-minute burnout by spreading the load
- It builds momentum — you feel more in control as the days progress
- It ensures you’ve revised everything twice and practiced mock tests — the sweet spot for most CA Inter students
Final Words
Don’t aim to be a perfectionist in this last month. You don’t need to know everything — you just need to know enough to write confidently and smartly.
Stick to the 10-10-10 Rule, trust your preparation, and stay consistent. This is the final lap — don’t let self-doubt slow you down.
You’ve come this far.
Now give it your all.
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