With only a couple of weeks to go until the dreaded P2 exam, what can you do to give yourself the best chance of passing?

We've got an online event running this Wednesday where you can ask BPP’s CIMA expert any question you like about the P2 (and P1) exam. More details here.

I’ve also gone through the post exam guides for the last four sittings of P2. Post exam guides are essential reading for all students – written by the examiner, they include a marking guide and suggested approach to answering each question, as well as listing common mistakes that candidates made in the exam.

So what did I find out? The main issues that come up time and again are:

• Poor layout of numerical questions and graphs
  Lack of planning in written questions
  Poor interpretation of the verbs used in the questions

Question practice using past papers is a great way to overcome these problems – you can download past papers and model answers for P2 here, when you’re logged into your MyCIMA account.

The P2 examiner likes to see evidence that you've planned your written answers - don't spend too long on this though! A good answer plan will contain a few key words, or maybe a mind map - remember that you can get started on these during the 20 minute reading time.

Our exam techniques video gives an overview of the CIMA verbs – don’t forget that the verb hierarchy and definitions are printed at the back of your exam paper for easy reference.

• Learning curve
  Variance calculations and analysis
  Ratio calculations and analysis

• Kaizen costing
  Graphical linear programming article and worked example
  Efficiency and effectiveness in the not-for-profit sector
  Learning curve article and question with model answer

Finally, the examiner has noticed that many students are writing out the questions in their answer books - please don't do this, it is a waste of valuable time. Spend time planning your answers instead.

Good luck!