The CS Test Series, conducted by the Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI), holds immense significance for candidates who aspire to pursue a career as Company Secretaries. Succeeding in this examination requires thorough planning and a steadfast commitment to dedicated preparation.
A common question among aspirants is the amount of time required to adequately complete the CS Test Series. Therefore, it is crucial to explore the ideal hours of preparation needed for aspiring Company Secretaries. Can you please provide further details on the specific aspects to be addressed in this regard?
Let’s break it down:
The CS Test Series consists of 6 papers – 2 papers each at the Executive Level, Professional Level and Professional Competence Level. Each paper is three hours long and is worth 100 marks.
Executive Level:
- Paper 1: Business Environment and Law
- Paper 2: Business Management, Ethics and Entrepreneurship
Professional Level:
- Paper 3: Company Law
- Paper 4: Securities Laws and Capital Markets
Professional Competence Level:
- Paper 5: Economic and Commercial Laws
- Paper 6: Tax Laws and Practice
On an average, students need to dedicate the following hours for each level:
Executive Level
Paper 1 & 2: 200-250 hours per paper
Total for Executive Level: 400-500 hours
Professional Level
Paper 3 & 4: 300-350 hours per paper
Total for Professional Level: 600-700 hours
Professional Competence Level
Paper 5 & 6: 350-400 hours per paper
Total for Professional Competence Level: 700-800 hours
This means the total hours required to complete the entire CS Test Series is:
- Executive Level: 400-500 hours
- Professional Level: 600-700 hours
- Professional Competence Level: 700-800 hours
- Grand Total = 1700-2000 hours
However, these hours are just estimates. The actual time needed may vary depending on individual learning abilities, prior subject knowledge, and preparation strategies used. But on an average, dedicating around 1700-2000 hours of quality preparation time spread over 6-8 months should be sufficient to complete the CS Test Series.
Now, let’s break down how these hours can be effectively distributed:
- 8-10 hours daily for 6 days a week
- Take one day off every week for rest
- Distribute hours subject-wise as per exam schedule and importance
- Focus more on subjects with higher marks like Company Law
- Allot more time for revision as exams near
- Leave at least a month for thorough revision before each exam
- Attempt 1-2 full length mock tests weekly from the start
With disciplined preparation following this schedule, candidates can optimize their efforts and complete the CS Test Series within the estimated timeframe. Regular self-analysis of progress and difficulties will also help make adjustments if needed.
In conclusion,
it is advised that individuals devote an average of 1700-2000 hours over a period of 6-8 months. This dedication is necessary in order to adequately cover the syllabus for the CS Test Series and ensure thorough preparation for the exams. It is crucial to implement effective time management strategies and regularly evaluate one’s progress to stay on track. Best of luck to all candidates in their CS Test Series preparation!