I’ve changed strategy since developing my original study schedule. While I had planned to get through one topic a week, I found that getting through the foundational topics of this exam (Survival Rates, Insurance, and Annuities) very tough to do. I have decided to keep focusing on those until I had a pretty strong comfort level with them, as the rest of the topics build on those.
This is quite different from my usual strategy of going through the entire course a few times before really getting a comfort level, but I feel it is the best one given that the material in this exam builds on itself going forward. I will admit to being a little nervous about this strategy, as by now I usually have been through the material and at least have a slight level of comfort with the concepts and terms.
Given that I have found the first few sections difficult, it has shaken my confidence in passing in November a little bit. I am used to this feeling by now, and I am never confident towards the beginning of an exam, but this feels like it is lasting longer, and I am on a shorter timeframe.
I am also doing something else I have never done before – I am creating my own flashcards. I sometimes buy the pre printed flashcards, but I didn’t this time around. I am finding creating the cards myself helps me remember the topics I specifically want to work on that day, and also helps me to structure the cards in a way that helps me learn.
I am glad to see I can be flexible in my approach and make the decisions to change strategy if things aren’t working. As I get to upper level exams, I imagine the ability to be flexible will help me pass those exams. For now, we will focus on MLC!
It is tough to assess my chances of passing at this point. Last week I would have said 0, today I will say 4 (out of 10).
