
Preparing for SBR ACCA can feel heavy until you know what examiners reward. This 30 day ACCA SBR revision plan is built to mirror the marker. It helps you practise how to pass ACCA SBR by writing clear, decision-focused answers under time. You will learn how to turn technical knowledge into marks. You will also learn when to slow down, plan, and earn professional marks. The schedule suits first-time sitters and those facing ACCA resit exams. It also adapts if you prefer ACCA SBR online classes, ACCA tuition, or guided ACCA tutoring.
What ACCA exam success looks like in SBR
Markers want to see that you understand the scenario. They want you to apply IFRS or UK GAAP with judgement. They want short, signposted conclusions. They do not want notes that list rules. They want advice. That is why this SBR training plan makes you write often. It is also why each week includes timed questions. If you copy this rhythm, you raise your chances of beating the average SBR passing rate.
Key features of a high scoring SBR ACCA script:
- A short plan at the top of each answer
- Headings that match the requirement verbs
- One technical point, one line of reasoning, one link to the exhibit, then a tight conclusion
- Calculations kept clean, followed by what the numbers mean
- Professional marks earned through structure, tone, and relevance
What you need before you start ACCA SBR revision
Set up now so your 30 days run smooth. Gather:
- The SBR syllabus and study guide
- A question bank with recent exam-style tasks
- Examiner’s reports and model answers
- A simple template for your own SBR notes
- A timer for 1.8 minutes per mark
- Blank paper for planning frameworks
- Access to ACCA tutor online support if you want quick feedback
- A quiet slot for daily practice
If you want structured SBR course support or SBR coaching, browse the courses on the main site for options that fit your style of study: SBR courses.
The 30 day SBR ACCA plan at a glance
Each week has a focus that aligns with how markers award credit.
- Week 1 – Build core skills
Refresh standards. Learn a repeatable answer structure. Start short, timed tasks. - Week 2 – Apply with depth
Tackle complex areas. Practise writing decisions. Start one full question under exam time. - Week 3 – Exam conditions
Sit two timed questions per sitting. Add pressure to improve pacing. - Week 4 – Mock exams and polish
Two full mocks. Tighten technique. Fix weak areas. Prepare a calm exam-day routine.
The plan assumes around 90 to 120 minutes a day. If you have more time, double the practice sets. If you have less, focus on the timed tasks first. Consistency beats big bursts.
Week 1 – Core concepts and answer craft
Day 1 – Orientation and a first write up
- Read the SBR overview. Note what the exam tests.
- Write one page on how to pass ACCA SBR. Keep it in plain English.
- Attempt a 20 mark scenario on financial statements under time.
- Build a quick review: what did you do well, what will you change tomorrow.
Day 2 – Conceptual framework and ethics
- Revise the conceptual framework.
- Practise a 10 mark ethics or professional marks task.
- Use a clear structure: issue – analysis – recommendation.
- Add two lines to your SBR notes on common ethical traps.
Day 3 – IFRS 15 revenue
- Summarise the five step model in your own words.
- Attempt two short cases on variable consideration and contract modifications.
- Add exam phrases to SBR notes: identify performance obligation, transfer of control.
Day 4 – IFRS 16 leases
- Map the lessee model. Include initial measurement and subsequent measurement.
- Do a 20 mark mixed calculation plus commentary. Time it.
- Write a three point conclusion that links back to the scenario.
Day 5 – IAS 36 impairment and IAS 38 intangibles
- Build a combined flow for CGUs, goodwill, and reversals.
- Attempt a case on impairment with disclosures.
- Add a short paragraph on judgement areas that markers like to see named.
Day 6 – Financial instruments basics
- Outline amortised cost, FVOCI, and FVPL.
- Attempt classification and ECL questions.
- Keep workings clean. Then explain the effect on profit and equity in one paragraph.
Day 7 – Consolidation refresh
- Sketch the steps for a simple group: goodwill, NCI, fair value adjustments.
- Attempt a 25 mark group question under full time.
- Review against a model answer. Note gaps. Update SBR notes.
Week 2 – Apply with depth and write like an adviser
Day 8 – Consolidation with complications
- Add associates, joint ventures, and step acquisitions.
- Attempt a 20 mark question. Focus on layout.
- Practise explaining the impact to investors in two sentences.
Day 9 – Financial instruments depth
- Hedge accounting overview.
- Attempt a risk management case that needs clear narrative.
- Use headings that mirror the requirement verbs. Markers reward this.
Day 10 – Revenue and leases integration
- Attempt a scenario where both interact.
- Keep a strict time budget per part.
- Add one paragraph on disclosures. ACCA teaching emphasises disclosure quality.
Day 11 – Current issues and narrative reporting
- Summarise themes like climate-related risks, TCFD style disclosures, and investor needs.
- Attempt a 15 mark discussion question.
- Practise professional tone for professional marks.
Day 12 – UK GAAP variant focus if sitting SBR UK
- Contrast FRS 102 with IFRS in one page of SBR notes.
- Attempt a 15 mark comparison task.
- If you need guided help, consider ACCA SBR classes or ACCA SBR online classes for focused UK content.
Day 13 – Full 50 mark question practice
- Sit one full 50 mark question under exam time.
- Mark yourself with the published grid.
- Identify three weaknesses to fix in Week 3.
Day 14 – Recovery and targeted drills
- Short drills on your weak areas only.
- Re-write one answer with better structure.
- Plan Week 3 study slots.
Week 3 – Build exam fitness with pressure and timing
Day 15 – Time management reset
- Learn the 1.8 minutes per mark rule.
- Practise two 20 mark questions back to back.
- Stop when time ends. Move on. Train your pacing.
Day 16 – Mixed technicals under time
- One 25 mark consolidation, one 25 mark discussion.
- Compare to model answers.
- Update SBR notes with three strong phrases you will reuse.
Day 17 – Marker-mirror session
- Take a past exam. Read the examiner’s report after you mark your script.
- Note patterns: unclear conclusions, weak relevance, poor layout.
- Write a 10 line action list.
Day 18 – Ethics and professional marks under pressure
- Attempt a case that awards professional marks.
- Use a formal greeting if asked for a memo or briefing.
- Keep sentences short. Use bullet points where allowed. Earn easy marks.
Day 19 – Scenario mapping
- For each requirement, write the verb, the subject, the output.
- Practise planning for 5 minutes, then write for the rest.
- Planning wins marks. It keeps answers relevant.
Day 20 – Two-question sitting
- Two 25 mark questions under time.
- Focus on tidy workings and signposted analysis.
- Record your score by section. Track trends.
Day 21 – Reflection and reset
- Light drills on issues still weak.
- Re-read your own SBR notes. Trim to one lean pack.
- If you need tailored feedback, consider an ACCA private tutor session or short ACCA tutoring support. If you prefer a structured path, review available options here: Courses.
Week 4 – Two full mocks and final polish
Day 22 – Mock 1 under real conditions
- Full paper under strict timing.
- No pauses. No notes.
- Mark with the grid. Identify where you lost relevance or time.
Day 23 – Fix workshop
- Pick three issues from Mock 1.
- Re-work one full answer with a better plan and tighter analysis.
- Practise a 10 mark ethics or communication task for professional marks.
Day 24 – Technical tidy
- Do short cases on the topics you fear.
- Consolidation adjustment you avoid.
- ECL you find tricky.
- Lease modification you rush.
- Keep it brief, but focused.
Day 25 – Mock 2 under real conditions
- Repeat the full paper.
- Aim for balance across technical and narrative tasks.
- Mark and compare to Mock 1. You should now see cleaner structure.
Day 26 – Proof and polish day
- Read your SBR notes end to end.
- Cut clutter. Keep only what you can recall fast.
- Practise one short scenario and one memo for professional marks.
Day 27 – Exam-day rehearsal
- Pack your stationery.
- Rehearse reading time and planning.
- Visualise the layout you will use for each answer.
Day 28 – Light revision and rest
- Review key frameworks: impairment, leases, revenue, financial instruments, group steps, ethics.
- No heavy new work. Protect energy.
Day 29 – Last look at current issues
- Read a short piece on reporting trends.
- Write a 6 line paragraph you could adapt to a range of scenarios.
- Stop early. Sleep.
Day 30 – Exam day routine
- Short warm up: outline an answer plan for a past requirement.
- Trust your training.
- Stick to time per mark. Keep answers relevant and structured.
The marker-mirror answer framework
Use this repeatable structure across SBR ACCA questions:
- Heading that matches the requirement
Example: Revenue recognition for contract X. - Identify the issue
What is the accounting question and why does it matter. - Relevant standard and rule
Name it. Keep it short. - Apply to the exhibit
Use the numbers and facts given. Avoid generic text. - Conclude
State the treatment and its impact. Keep it concise. - Professional touches
Use clear subheadings. If a memo is asked for, use a sensible sign-off.
Daily routine if you are short on time
If you are working and need a tight plan, use this 60 to 90 minute format on most days:
- 5 minutes planning
- 35 minutes writing a timed question
- 10 minutes compare to the model
- 10 minutes SBR notes update
- 10 minutes short drill on a weak point
For extra support, some students prefer an ACCA tutor online or small ACCA SBR classes. Guided practice helps if you keep missing the same marks. If you prefer to work alone, the structure above still delivers steady ACCA exam success.
Building SBR notes that help you write better answers
Your SBR notes should be short. They should help you write, not just revise. Try this setup:
- One page per core topic with a three line summary
- A tiny checklist for common pitfalls
- Two model phrases you like for application
- A worked example that you can scan in 30 seconds
Keep a separate page for professional marks:
- Use headings that match the task type
- Keep tone suitable for a board or CFO
- Close with a decision and next steps
Using groups and tutors to stay accountable
An SBR group can keep you on track. Meet once a week for 45 minutes:
- Each person shares one answer and one fix
- The group agrees a single timing rule for the week
- You swap SBR notes and keep only the best tips
If you need targeted help, an ACCA online tutor or ACCA private tutor can review a script and point out where you drop marks. Many candidates use a mix of self study and ACCA tutors online during the last two weeks. Choose what fits your style and budget.
When to consider ACCA SBR online classes
ACCA SBR online classes can help if:
- You are a resit candidate and need structure
- You struggle with timing or answer layout
- You prefer step by step coaching and feedback
- You want curated question sets and exam-day routines
If you want a course that maps to this style, you can explore the available SBR course options here: SBR courses. For free materials and further guidance, start from the main site home page: Resources and updates.
Common pain points and quick fixes
I run out of time
- Set a hard stop per part. Move on at zero. Practise this daily.
My answers feel generic
- Plan for 5 minutes. Pull three facts from the exhibit. Tie each point to one fact.
I know the rules but lose marks
- Write shorter rules. Spend more words on application and impact.
I panic when I see groups
- Rehearse a fixed sequence for consolidation. Write it at the top of the page before you start.
I forget disclosures
- Add a one line reminder in your plan. Disclosures are easy marks.
I do well at home but not under pressure
- Sit two full mocks in Week 4. Mark them strictly. Pressure training matters.
Resit focus: from the 40s to a pass
If you are facing ACCA resit exams, adopt a triage mindset for four weeks:
- Identify the three topics where you lost most marks
- Redo those questions with a strict plan and timing
- Book two external script reviews via ACCA tutoring or an ACCA tutor online
- Sit two mocks in Week 4 and judge only what you write under time
Keep the plan light on new content. Heavy theory will not fix timing and relevance.
Short, sharp techniques that raise marks fast
- Use headings that mirror the command verbs: evaluate, discuss, recommend
- Write conclusions after each key point to show judgement
- State impacts on profit, equity, and ratios where relevant
- Signpost calculations and explain what the number means
- Earn professional marks by using an appropriate format and a calm, logical tone
FAQ for SBR ACCA candidates
How many hours per day do I need for ACCA SBR revision?
Aim for 90 minutes on weekdays and more at weekends. Consistency matters more than long sessions.
What is the best SBR study order?
Build core topics first, then integrate. Follow the weekly flow above.
Do I need ACCA SBR classes to pass?
Not always. Classes help if you need structure, coaching, and feedback. Many pass with a plan plus targeted support.
How can I improve my writing for SBR ACCA?
Plan in five minutes. Use headings. Tie each point to facts from the exhibit. Close with a decision.
Is SBR UK different?
Yes. There are UK GAAP differences. If you sit SBR UK, schedule a day in Week 2 for FRS 102 vs IFRS.
Final checklist before exam day
- I have a simple, repeatable answer structure
- I can plan in five minutes and stick to time per mark
- I have sat two full mocks under real timing
- My SBR notes are short, clear, and easy to scan
- I know how to earn professional marks with layout and tone
- I have a calm routine for the morning of the exam
ACCA SBR rewards candidates who think like advisers and write like professionals. This 30 day SBR training plan puts that style into daily practice. Use it as written or adapt it to suit your timetable. If you want guided support, explore the structured SBR course options and resources available here: SBR courses. If you prefer to browse wider guidance and free content before you decide, start at the home page: Main site. Stay consistent, keep answers relevant, and focus on decisions and impact. That is how to pass ACCA SBR with calm confidence.