CFA 2024 Study Material: Pattern, Topics, Preparation Tips

Hafsha Qureshi

Updated on - Sep 12, 2024

CFA 2024 study material includes important books, question banks, and sample papers. Candidates can buy the CFA level 1 study material PDF online from the official website. The Chartered Financial Analyst exam is a globally recognized educational certification program that enables young aspirational professionals to have better career opportunities. The CFA level 1 study material guides students to a better understanding of modern-day financial practices.

The CFA exams are categorized into three levels based on the CFA curriculum. It consists of 180 questions covering vital topics such as ethics, investments, portfolio management etc.

CFA 2024 study material

The CFA exam is divided into three levels based on the difficulty and complexity of the syllabus. Some of the best CFA study material 2024 from official resources are below.

Additional CFA 2024 Study Material

Mentioned below are some of the additional CFA 2024 study materials students can opt for.

• The CFA Institute's Investment Series Books
• Finance and Investment Podcasts
• Relevant Financial News and Reports

CFA Exam Pattern 2024

The Chartered Financial Analyst exam comprises around 180 Questions segregated into 135-minute sessions. Ethics, investment tools, and portfolio management are some of the topics which are majorly covered. According to recent reports, the passing marks for the CFA exams are 40-45%.

Scoring and Passing Criteria for CFA Exams

Candidates writing the exam get one mark each for every correct answer. However, there are no deductions, so the candidate can opt for all the questions.

The Institute determines the passing marks for the CFA exam, which varies among factors, including the candidate's percentage and overall difficulty.

Topics Covered for CFA Exam 2024

Below are some of the best CFA study materials required for scoring high marks in the CFA examination.

1. Quantitative Methods: These methods emphasize the objective measurements from the data collected through surveys, questionnaires, etc., to make informed decisions.
2. Ethical and Professional Standards: This particular standard sets a definite benchmark for investment professionals to carry out the required code of conduct and inculcate ethical and professional conduct.
3. Economics: A strong knowledge of economics is required for the candidates to help them know and understand the nature of financial markets and help them make informed financial decisions.
4. Financial Statement Analysis: This area of topic addresses the balance sheet, profit and loss statement and other financial reports.
5. Portfolio Management: In this topic, the students will be taught how to construct and manage an investment portfolio to achieve specific objectives.
6. Corporate Finance: In corporate finance, students can have profound knowledge about a company's financial decision-making process.
7. Equity Investments: This topic deals with the equity investments and shares of the company.
8. Fixed Income: Fixed income denotes a fixed stream of income to the investors who have invested in the company.
9. Alternative Investments: The alternative investment includes assets outside stocks, bonds and cash.

CFA Preparation Tips 

Candidates can purchase CFA online study material to start their preparation. Here are some tips:

1. Study Material: All aspiring candidates must purchase CFA exam study materials. All the important chapters with high weightage must be studied and revised.
2. Timetable: Candidates are suggested to create a timetable for the exam preparation. It will help them to cover all topics on time. 
3. Learning Outcome Statements: LOS serves as a roadmap for the studies. It denotes specific skills and knowledge that the candidate should have.
4. Mock Exams: The CFA institute also enables students to take exams in actual format. Taking these exams helps students to track their progress and helps them prepare for the examination accordingly.
5. Practice Questions: The Institute also provides practice questions at the end of each chapter, which helps the students gauge their preparation and help them to identify the areas that need improvement.