Welcome to the 2025 exam cycle!
Welcome, and thanks for joining me.
As you embark on the 2025 exam cycle, I want to extend a warm welcome to you all whether you’re new or preparing for a further attempt at the exams. Either way, this is a significant step in your career, and it's a testament to your dedication to advancing in this challenging but rewarding field. The exams are hard as nails - you have 5 months to make yourself a hammer! (Sorry, got a bit carried away with the metaphor).
When I prepared for the exams, the mistakes I made were to assume for FD1 that it was all about knowledge and no technique required. This was a recipe for failure. It wasn’t until I honed my technique that I actually passed.
The road ahead may feel daunting at times, but remember—you are not alone.
How to Make the Most of This Cycle
Plan and Prioritize: Time management is key. Develop a study schedule that aligns with your work-life balance and stick to it.
Leverage Resources: There is a wealth of support available for you, from past papers to tutorials. Take full advantage of them to hone your knowledge.
Stay Connected: Networking with fellow trainees can provide moral support and useful insights. Don't hesitate to set up a group and keep each other motivated and accountable.
Take Care of Yourself: Exams are demanding, but maintaining your physical and mental well-being is just as important as studying. Take regular breaks and stay active.
Resources to Get You Started
You can now sign up for my mock FD1 questions mailing list using the link above this article. I’ll mail you a question a week until the exam, with answers the week after. The e-mail will also be chock-full of tips and other information to help you on the way.
This blog details all of the techniques I used to pass FD1, including real examples of my planning papers. In addition, I’ll be adding a set of articles about each section of FD4 to pass on the techniques I used to passed FD4.
The PEB website is full of resources, which you will already know. Please make use of them. I previously posted a summary of useful resources (here) for you to refer to also.
Feel free to e-mail me or contact me on LinkedIn if there’s something I can help with - I am here to support you every step of the way. Remember, preparation and perseverance are your greatest allies.
Please consider a donation to Macmillan (see my about page) if you like what this blog provides.
Here's to a successful 2025 exam cycle. Let’s get it done!
