CPA Study Guide 2026
Everything you need to pass the CPA exam in one place: the exam format, every topic to study, real practice questions with explanations, flashcards, and full-length practice tests. Free, no sign-up needed.
📋 CPA Exam Format at a Glance
📚 CPA Topics to Study (27)
✍️ Sample CPA Questions & Answers
1. What is the purpose of data analysis in CPA practice?
Data analysis examines, cleans, and models data to discover useful information and support decision-making.
2. What is accrual accounting?
Accrual accounting is an accounting method where revenues and expenses are recorded when they are earned or incurred, regardless of when cash actually changes hands. This provides a more accurate picture of a company's financial performance over a period, as it matches revenues with the expenses that generated them. It contrasts with cash basis accounting, where transactions are recorded only when cash is received or paid.
3. How do regulations differ from standards in CPA practice?
Regulations are legally enforceable government rules; standards are industry-developed guidelines that may become requirements through adoption.
4. What is an internal control in CPA financial management?
Internal controls safeguard assets, ensure accurate reporting, promote efficiency, and ensure compliance.
5. Under the concept of 'independence in appearance,' a CPA should:
Independence in appearance means avoiding circumstances that a reasonable, informed third party would view as compromising the CPA's objectivity.
6. The contribution margin ratio is calculated as:
The contribution margin ratio equals contribution margin (sales minus variable costs) divided by sales revenue, showing what percentage of each sales dollar covers fixed costs and profit.