🎙 The Simple Study System – Part 2: Track to Stay on Track\

The 5 Essential Steps to Track Your CPA Exam Study Time and Build Real Consistency

Episode Summary

In this episode, Dawn continues Part 2 of her Simple Study System with a focused look at tracking — and why tracking your actual study time is one of the most powerful tools for building consistency, confidence, and momentum on the CPA Exam.

Instead of relying on guesses or judging yourself based on how long you planned to study, this lesson shows you how to track what actually happens when you sit down to study. Dawn explains why tracking creates awareness first, and how that awareness leads to better decisions, less frustration, and more effective study sessions.

This episode is designed for CPA candidates who want to study consistently but keep feeling distracted, discouraged, or unsure if what they’re doing is actually working. Tracking gives you the clarity to stop fighting yourself and start working with how your brain really functions.

🎯 What You’ll Learn in This Episode

1. Why Tracking Matters for CPA Exam Success

Dawn explains why accountants don’t guess — and why your study time shouldn’t be any different. Tracking shows you what’s actually happening, not what you think is happening, so you can make decisions based on facts instead of frustration.

2. How to Track Your Actual Study Time

You’ll learn how to use a simple timer to track only focused study time, when to start and stop the clock, and why distractions don’t count — without turning tracking into a source of pressure or judgment.

3. What Study Stamina Is and How to Work With It

Dawn introduces the concept of study stamina and explains how long your brain can realistically focus before needing a break. You’ll learn why starting with what’s real, not ideal, leads to more consistency and better results.

4. How to Track Without Judgment or Self-Criticism

This section focuses on using tracking as neutral information. Dawn explains how curiosity replaces criticism, why trial and error is part of the process, and how awareness always comes before improvement.

5. How to Use Tracking Data to Make Better Study Decisions

You’ll learn how to adjust your study plan based on real data — not guilt or “shoulds.” Dawn explains how working with your natural focus patterns helps prevent burnout, reduce overwhelm, and build a study system that actually works for you.

Key Takeaway

Tracking isn’t about perfection or discipline — it’s about awareness. When you track your study time without judgment, you stop wasting energy fighting yourself and start building a study system that supports consistent progress all the way to the CPA Exam finish line.

👉 Click HERE to access the lesson slide deck.

👉 Click HERE for the link to purchase the Activity Tracker Dawn uses and recommends. (This is NOT an affiliate link. Any timer/activity tracker will work.)

👉 Click HERE to get your FREE Ultimate CPA Exam Success Checklist download and custom GPT.

Thanks for listening to Part 2 of The Simple Study System. This is the same system you’ll repeat for every section of the CPA Exam as you continue building confidence, consistency, and momentum toward your final passing score.

Ready to Stop Struggling and Start Passing?

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👉 Click HERE to take your first step toward CPA Exam success! (This 🔗 takes you to all currently available free and paid resources.)

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