What if I want to quit studying for the CPA?

Wanting to quit is normal, especially after months of studying. Take a short break (a few days to a week), reconnect with your reasons for pursuing the CPA, and talk to others who have been through it. If you still want to quit after reflection, thats a valid choice—but make it deliberately, not in a low moment.

Is it okay to take a break from CPA studying?

Yes, strategic breaks prevent burnout. Take one full rest day per week minimum. A week off between sections is often helpful. Even during intense study periods, short breaks improve retention. Just watch your 18-month window for passed sections.

Mindset & Motivation7 min read

Staying Motivated During CPA Exam Prep

How to maintain momentum throughout your CPA journey

Connect daily study to your bigger career goals

Celebrate small wins (chapter completions, score improvements)

Build accountability through study partners or communities

Prevent burnout with strategic breaks and self-care

CPA exam preparation is a marathon, not a sprint. Maintaining motivation over 12-18 months of studying is one of the biggest challenges candidates face. These strategies help you stay focused and committed.

Last updated: February 1, 2026

Connect to Your "Why"

When motivation wanes, reconnecting with your reasons for pursuing the CPA can reignite your drive.

Write down your top 3 reasons for becoming a CPA
Calculate the career and salary benefits you expect
Think about the pride youll feel after passing
Consider who else benefits—family, mentors who believed in you
Revisit these reasons when studying feels pointless

Break It Into Milestones

The full CPA journey is overwhelming. Breaking it into smaller achievements makes progress visible.

Chapter by Chapter

Celebrate completing each chapter or module.

Score Milestones

Reward yourself when practice scores improve.

Section by Section

Major celebration after each section pass.

Hour Goals

Track weekly study hours and hit your targets.

Build Accountability

Studying in isolation is harder. Build systems that keep you accountable.

Find a study partner (in person or online)
Join CPA study communities (Reddit r/CPA, Another71)
Tell friends and family about your timeline
Consider a study coach or tutor for check-ins
Post progress updates (creates social commitment)

Prevent Burnout

Sustainable studying beats short bursts followed by exhaustion.

Take at least one full rest day per week
Exercise regularly—its proven to improve focus and mood
Maintain social connections and hobbies
Use vacation time strategically (study breaks, not last-minute cramming)
Recognize warning signs: dreading study, declining practice scores, fatigue

Handle Low Motivation Days

Everyone has days when studying feels impossible. Have strategies ready.

Do a "minimum viable study session" (even 15 minutes counts)
Switch study methods (videos instead of reading, or vice versa)
Study in a different location
Review your progress to see how far youve come
Its okay to take an unplanned rest day—just get back on track tomorrow

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Frequently Asked Questions

Focus on one section at a time, celebrate each milestone, build accountability through communities or study partners, and take regular breaks to prevent burnout. Connect your daily effort to your long-term goals.