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Up to date books written to the AAT syllabus are a vital component in your study success.
Success is achieved by using a variety of learning methods and resources, a good example being hardcopy books, live or recorded lectures, e-learning, videos and tutor support. When the multiple methods are combined into one easy access programme, the learner has an optimum chance of success.
Research has shown that the book's role is key, it improves comprehension, boosts memory and quickens recall. Another essential element for all learning styles is, a book has no completion timeframe meaning its speed of teaching, always matches your speed of learning.
The published content covers both core and fine detail knowledge, the diagrams meet visual learner needs and the exercises aid knowledge consolidation through multiple examples and easy access practice questions.
A study text allows you self-study moments where you can turn away from the online content for a different reflective style of learning.
With the above necessities in mind, The following list is my top 7 AAT Books for Accounting and Finance including Bookkeeping.
To pass your exams it is necessary to blend an AAT approved textbook into your study programme. In my opinion, the textbook that always stands out as the best is the Kaplan Study Text, which is renowned around the world. This study text applies to both bookkeeping and accounting.
One of the main reasons why I chose Kaplan as first choice is because the design and content is pitched to the right level for the students. Kaplan are very considerate of the students learning requirements at each level, meaning the textbook is an ideal fit with the learners online content. The subjects are well explained and in sufficient detail for all learning styles to comfortably absorb the knowledge. This is definitely one to put in your basket for purchase.
Kaplan AAT study materials include clear explanations and real-world examples. Kaplan AAT study materials are regularly updated based on feedback from tutors and students.
In addition, Kaplan textbooks meet the Geoff Petty's 'Par Model' for easy access study and success.
The AAT Level 2 qualification is to date, the most popular introduction accounting course. It is suitable for the majority of students who want to learn or launch a career in accounting.
Mandatory AAT Level 2 units include Introduction to Bookkeeping, Principles of Bookkeeping Controls, Principles of Costing, and The Business Environment synoptic assessment.
There are 4 x AAT assessments to complete for the AAT Level 2. The Business Environment synoptic assessment is different as it tests your knowledge of the wider aspects of business rather than the accounting processes of the other three computer-based exams. A quick search on the AAT website will show you your local assessment centre or you can sit them remotely from home.
AAT Level 3 is the advanced level of AAT qualification.
Units: Financial Accounting- Preparing Financial Statements - Management Costing Techniques - Tax Processes for Business - Business Awareness
There are 4 x AAT computer-based exams to complete for the AAT Level 3.
AAT Level 4 is the professional level of the AAT qualification.
There are 5 computer-based assessments to complete for the AAT Level 4, you sit 3 core AAT exams and two option AAT exams. Each Level 4 exam is hand marked and results are received 6 weeks later.
After completing AAT Level 4, students can use the title MAAT after their name, subject to meeting AAT requirements of CPD and experience.
Practice makes perfect to prepare for your exams and confirm your level of knowledge. The best method for practice and knowledge checking that achieves exam readiness is the world renowned Kaplan Exam Kit.
The first stage is to learn and absorb the item.
The knowledge phase teaches the principles of the element in a linear way i.e. start at point A and work through to the answer at point D.
The second stage of knowledge building is to convert learning knowledge into exam ready knowledge
Revision requires you to consolidate, check and upskill your principle knowledge by moving from linear answering to finding the same answer in multiple ways.
Overall, the Kaplan's Exam Kit questions have sufficient variety and depth to take your knowledge to exam readiness plus the clear answer explanations, are helpful when you didn't quite get it right.
The format of the Exam Kit questions are simple and again, the questions are pitched at the right level to ensure a steady transition towards that exam readiness.
Kaplan Exam Kits are the most widely used exam workbook. Both AAT students and training providers like that they written specifically for the AAT exams. It's another definite for the purchase basket.
I would highly recommend Kaplan Pocket Notes. They're designed to be the last checks before sitting your exams. They follow the same context as the study textbooks so have a natural synergy.
Pockets notes also known as flashcards act as a flip chart of abridged bullet points for all key topics.
Pocket notes add the extra confirmation that you are exam ready. They allow you to check the depth of your knowledge by how quickly you recall information from the bullet pointed information.
If your knowledge is truly deep enough to have reached exam readiness, you should be able to flip to any page and recite in depth information about the topic just from glancing the few bullet points.
If you find a topic where you cannot instantly recite, then you are not exam ready in that topic and need to revisits your Exam Kit or Study Text. This process can be repeated until you are happy with your level of knowledge in each topic.
Pocket notes are simple, but a very effective revision tool for boosting your recall. They help you to gain confidence in your knowledge and in turn, enhance your readiness for exams.
Pocket notes maybe small, but when used properly they pack a punch and really can be the difference that helped you pass your exams.
For AAT materials, it is essential to purchase resources updated for the Q2022 qualification specifications.
The last four books I have chosen are not directly related to the AAT syllabus, but are accountancy related. I recommend you add them to your list of essential tools for career development.
As your studies progress, particularly at Level 4, it is not sufficient to just calculate the numbers. You will be expected to interpret the numbers and understand the effect of those numbers on business generally and in particular, how the company you work for is affected.
It's never too soon to start looking at the bigger picture. The following books look at the numbers and what's behind them from a non-accounting perspective, which is a skill you will need when dealing with clients.
Recognised as one of the best and clearest guides to understanding the numbers on the market. This book gives you a guided tour through the numbers.
Included in the book are:
Seeing the numbers from a non-financial perspective adds and enhances your ability to communicate and ultimately close deals.
Included in the book are:
This book removes the jargon and uses plain English teaching through activities. It is suitable for managers, business people and students alike. Topics covered are:
This book is for those occasions when you think, 'What Am I Missing.... I Just Don't Get It'. We've all had those moments of mental block when, regardless of the amount of times you read it, the concept goes straight over your head.
Fortunately, no more blank moments. This book will explain the bare facts in the simplest terms.
The book is for students studying accounting, finance and business. It explains:
The UK version meets UK Accounting Practices (GAAPS) and International Reporting Standards (IFRS's). If you only want one additional publication to the Kaplan volumes whether at Level 2, Level 3 or Level 4 add this one to your shopping basket, you won't regret it.
In the books I have recommended above, I've given you a balance of books that support you in learning and in revision to maximise your chances of success.
I have also recommended books that will help develop your career knowledge further by adding real business events and principles to the already studied theory and practice.
Finally, I have recommended books that take you beyond the numbers to begin the development of your accountancy career analysis and reporting ability.
The books collectively will make you a better accountant long-term.
When you enrol with e-Careers, we start your essential book collection by including hardcopy Kaplan Study Textbooks and digital Kaplan Pocket Notes with every course. At level 4, we also include the Kaplan Exam Kit.
The e-Careers training courses also offer an extensive range of online resources including: live online classes, recorded lectures, workbooks and industry-leading e-learning. The overall books and online resource content combined comfortably meet the needs of all learning styles
By adopting effective and balanced study habits and making the most of your finance knowledge from bookkeeping controls to in depth investments, you'll ensure you stand out from the crowd in the job market.
Whether you are just starting out or looking to advance your career, the AAT qualification offers the knowledge, skills, and opportunities needed to thrive in the dynamic field of accounting and finance.
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